Reading the Script
Reading the script is probably the most important step in the entire design process.  This allows you to understand the flow of the show, especially if you have multiple scene changes.  All of your clues with the design are in the script....well most of them.

Doing Your Homework
This could be anything from gathering information when the show first opened on Broaway to narrowing down the architectual style of the set. This is also a great time to measure the stage so you know what will fit. Know your fire code areas in the theatre. (I once had to have a staircase rebuilt because it was 5 inches to long in an area that should have been open due to fire code. I was really embarrassed!)

Creating the Design
Desiging the set is the hardest thing in the entire process.  This will also determine if you did your homework correctly in the end.  Remeber, do not copy another designers work.  Be creative!

Creating the Plans
Creating build plans can be tricky,however, much needed for your carpenter to build what was in your head. Sometimes I make a model. Please do not get discourged if your measureents are slighly off from the actual built set.  This is common in theatres you have not worked in. 

Attending Your Meetings
This is where you get to checkin in with everyone involved.   It's in these meetings where you will mostly hear what is working and not during the process. 

Hands On
Now it's time to roll up your sleeves and physically work on your set painting, sewing, correcting issues that may occur.  If you are lucky you may have a scenic artist to paint your set, and if you are really lucky a set dresser to place your beautiful objects you located during your homework from earlier in the design process. Remember a good looking set lies in the details.