What are the consequences of doing nothing when a conditional US patent expires? Does your invention become public domain?

I think you mean a "provisional patent application". Letting this expire does not itself put this in the public domain, but your sales of the...

Something like a coffee mug could be patentable, but you must have an invention that is novel compared to the current art. Patentable subject...

Can one apply for a patent on a handmade item thats been made and sold online already?

To get a patent you must be the first true inventor of the concept. It doesn' t sound like this is something you though of yourself. If you did...

Can I file a patent application for an invention after publicly releasing it?

In the United States you have exactly one year from the public disclosure to file. I hope that time is not up yet. Unfortunately in most other...

With regards to patents, who has legal priority first to sell or first to file?

Well if 2 entities are both applying for a patent on the same thing, then you're right its first to file. However, here, there are sales in...

I don't think they can tie you down unless there is something specific on this in your employment contract.

It is legally possible to execute a licensing deal on a provisional application, but I have to tell you its not likely unless someone is totally...

Can you patent art that's made out of old bottles?

Art typically is not the subject of patent. Rather, you can copyright the art. Trade dress is a could be a possibility down the road. We will...

Apply for Patents

I think any of the patent contributors here could help you.

I agree with the other presenters that this is possible but difficult to patent. Since you consider this a "secret sauce" it very well may be...