Here's how to protect intellectual property and custom designs:

1. Patent Registration: If your designs include innovative technical elements, patent registration can protect these innovations from unauthorized reproduction.

2. Copyright: Registering your designs with a copyright office can provide legal protection against unauthorized copying or use of your works.

3. Trademarks: If your designs include distinctive logos or names, registering them as trademarks protects your brand identity and prevents third-party use.

4. Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): When discussing custom designs with partners or clients, NDAs can help protect your ideas before they are finalized and legally protected.

5. Documentation: Keep detailed records of your designs and creation dates. This can be useful in case of disputes to prove ownership and priority.

6. Clear Contracts: When working on custom designs for clients, ensure that your contracts clearly specify intellectual property rights and management of rights to the created designs.

These measures can help safeguard your work and avoid potential disputes regarding intellectual property.