CA2102033A1 - Greeting card and blank therefor - Google Patents
Greeting card and blank thereforInfo
- Publication number
- CA2102033A1 CA2102033A1 CA 2102033 CA2102033A CA2102033A1 CA 2102033 A1 CA2102033 A1 CA 2102033A1 CA 2102033 CA2102033 CA 2102033 CA 2102033 A CA2102033 A CA 2102033A CA 2102033 A1 CA2102033 A1 CA 2102033A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panels
- panel
- greeting card
- self
- graphic
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B42—BOOKBINDING; ALBUMS; FILES; SPECIAL PRINTED MATTER
- B42D—BOOKS; BOOK COVERS; LOOSE LEAVES; PRINTED MATTER CHARACTERISED BY IDENTIFICATION OR SECURITY FEATURES; PRINTED MATTER OF SPECIAL FORMAT OR STYLE NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DEVICES FOR USE THEREWITH AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; MOVABLE-STRIP WRITING OR READING APPARATUS
- B42D15/00—Printed matter of special format or style not otherwise provided for
- B42D15/02—Postcards; Greeting, menu, business or like cards; Letter cards or letter-sheets
- B42D15/04—Foldable or multi-part cards or sheets
- B42D15/045—Multi-part cards or sheets, i.e. combined with detachably mounted articles
- B42D15/047—Multi-part cards or sheets, i.e. combined with detachably mounted articles with photographs or slides
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A self-supporting greeting card adapted to carrry a graphic such as a photograph or the like is formed from a blank having at least three panels in seriatim. In the embodiment having three panels, the ~ end panels of the blank are joined to the center panel by fold lines. The center panel or one of the end panels has an opening in it through which the graphic is visible. A pairof laterally spaced, adhesive strips are provided on one of the end panels or the center panel. The adhesive strips act to hold the graphic in position so that itis seen as desired through the opening and for securing one end panel to the center panel when the end panel is folded about the fold line to overlie the center panel with the graphic therebetween to form the greeting card.
A self-supporting greeting card adapted to carrry a graphic such as a photograph or the like is formed from a blank having at least three panels in seriatim. In the embodiment having three panels, the ~ end panels of the blank are joined to the center panel by fold lines. The center panel or one of the end panels has an opening in it through which the graphic is visible. A pairof laterally spaced, adhesive strips are provided on one of the end panels or the center panel. The adhesive strips act to hold the graphic in position so that itis seen as desired through the opening and for securing one end panel to the center panel when the end panel is folded about the fold line to overlie the center panel with the graphic therebetween to form the greeting card.
Description
The preserlt in~ention relates to greeting cards and in particular to a greeting eard adapted to carry a graphic such as a photograph or the like and a blank therefor.
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Greeting cards are well known in the art and many variations have been corlsidered. Some cs)mmon greeting cards have on their exterior and interior surfaces, pre-printed graphics and/or messages. Other greeting cards are blank on the interior to allow a sender of such a greeting card to personalize it. Personalized greeting cards are becoming more popular and this is evident with the development of ~ending machines which generate greeting cards having a personaliæd message created by the purchaser, printed on the interior of the greeting card. One of the drawbacks associated with these types of greeting cards is that the personalization is limited to written messages.
To overcome this drawback, cards intended to be mailecl which permit a photograph selected by the sender to be incorporated into the card, have been considered. ~or example, U.S. Patent No. 922,035 to Pifer shows a postcard whieh includes three panels with an opening in one of the end panels. Adhesive material covers the entire interior surface of the one end panel and is designed to hold a photograph placed fa~e down on it and to secure the end panel to the center panel when the end panel is folded a~out a score line to overlie the center panel. The center panel and the other end panel are fixed in ~elation to each other and at a fixed bend such that they are in slightly different planes.
Although this postcard allows a photograph to be attached to it, the design of the postcard is not suiterl to a greeting card. The center and end ,~ ' ~ . : ~ , ,: ' . , . ,, : :
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Greeting cards are well known in the art and many variations have been corlsidered. Some cs)mmon greeting cards have on their exterior and interior surfaces, pre-printed graphics and/or messages. Other greeting cards are blank on the interior to allow a sender of such a greeting card to personalize it. Personalized greeting cards are becoming more popular and this is evident with the development of ~ending machines which generate greeting cards having a personaliæd message created by the purchaser, printed on the interior of the greeting card. One of the drawbacks associated with these types of greeting cards is that the personalization is limited to written messages.
To overcome this drawback, cards intended to be mailecl which permit a photograph selected by the sender to be incorporated into the card, have been considered. ~or example, U.S. Patent No. 922,035 to Pifer shows a postcard whieh includes three panels with an opening in one of the end panels. Adhesive material covers the entire interior surface of the one end panel and is designed to hold a photograph placed fa~e down on it and to secure the end panel to the center panel when the end panel is folded a~out a score line to overlie the center panel. The center panel and the other end panel are fixed in ~elation to each other and at a fixed bend such that they are in slightly different planes.
Although this postcard allows a photograph to be attached to it, the design of the postcard is not suiterl to a greeting card. The center and end ,~ ' ~ . : ~ , ,: ' . , . ,, : :
2 .~ 3 3 panels are not apparently intended to fold against each other. Also, as with allpostcards, its design does not afford privacy of communication and may be read by any one who sees it e;ther before or after mailing.
An alternative mailable postcard is disclosed in U.S. Patent No.
4,825,574 to George. This postcard includes two panels with a pre-cut window formed in one of the panels. An adhesive material is applied to the inside face of the one panel and is covered by a removable release material. A photograph may be afflxed to the panel having the pre-cut opening by remGving the release material and afflxing the photograph to the adhesive material fàce down. The other panel may then be folded to overlie the one panel to form a backing for the photograph with the adhesive material on the one panel also acting to securethe two panels together. The other panel includes pre-cut tabs that may be pulled out from the panel and angled to the plane of that panel so as to form aneasel f~r standing the photograph in a displayed position and/or for secuIing the entire assembly to a wall or other surface.
, Similar to the Pifer postcard, the George postcard is of a design which is not suited to a greeting card. In its closed position with the photograph mounted, no writing surface is available except on a portion of one face of the postcard opposite the face displaying the photograph. In all circumstances, this face is in plain view and does not afford privacy of communication and may be read by anyone who sees it either before or after mallmg.
The George and Pifer postcards may also cause the user considerable difficulty when mounting the photographs and assembling the postcards due to the fact that the entire surfaces of the panels to which the photographs are to be attached are covered with an adhesive material. In order to accomplish a proper matt, skill is required on the part of the user and greatcare must be exercised when mounting the photograph to ensure that the photograph is properly aligned wi~hin the frame describ~ by the opening in the S panel and ~at against the adhesive material. The same considerations pertain with respect to securing the two panels together after the photograph has been mounted. Failure to ensure that the photograph and panels are properly aligned or evenly matted may result in irregularities in the surface of the matt caused by buckling of either the photograph itself, the panel to which the photograph 1~ is attached or the panel to which that panel is secured.
As well, minor deviations in the angle of the fold between the two panels which may be caused by the user exerting unequal pressure on either side of the panel when folding it, may cause misalignment of the two panels along their outer edges. This may make trimming or sorne other coI~ective procedure necess~y to achieYe a properly aesthetic result. In the case of the George postcard, such misalignment may also adversely affect the ability of the pre-cut tabs to function as the easel for the photograph. Accordingly, there exists a need for a greeting card to carry a graphic such as a photograph or thelike which obviates or mitigates at least some of the above-described disad~antages.
It is therefore an object ~f the present invention to pravide a novel self-supporting greeting card and a hlank therefor.
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According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a self-supporting greeting card comprising:
a single piece of material divided in~o at least three panels, ea~h of said at least three panels being foldable in relation to the adjoining panel, one of said at least three panels having an opening therein to display a graphic;
means for holding said graphic in position over said opening; and means for securing one of said at least three panels to an adjoining panel with saisi graphic therebetween in position over said opening when said one panel is folded to overlie the other panel to form said greeting card.
Pr~ferably, the single piece of material is divided into a center panel and first and second end panels with one of the end panels overlying the center panel to form the greeting card. It is also preferred that the holding means and the securing means are in the form ~f a pair of laterally spaced, adhesi~e strips locat~d on either the first end panel or the center panel. In one embodiment, one of the adhesive strips constitutes the holding means while the other adhesive strip constitutes the securing means. In this embodiment, it is preferred that the one adhesive strip is located on eith~r the first end panel or the center panel in a position to contact ~he graphic intermediate its side edges.
In this position, the one adhesi~e strip can also accs~mrnodate an orien~ation of the graphic to compensate for de~ciencies in its aligr2ment.
In another embodiment, both of the adhesive strips ale spaced from the edges of either the first end panel or the center panel with the distance between the inside edges of the adhesive strips being less than the width ~f thegraphic. In this arrangement, one of the adhesive stnps is positioned to hold the g aphic atong one of its side edges with the other side edt e of the graphic ., ..
2 ~ ~ 3 remaining free and the other adhesive strip acts to secure the first end panel and the center panel together.
In another embodiment, the single piece of material is divided into two outside panels and two inside panels, each outside panel being associated with the inside panel to which it is adjoined to define two sets of panels9 one panel of each set having an opening therein to display a graphic, means for holding the graphic in position over the opening and means for securing the two panels of each set together when the panels of each set are folded to overlie one another with the graphic therebetween in position over theopening. In this embodiment, it is preferred that each of the outside panels hasthe opening therein and that the holding means and securing means are in the form of a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips on each of the inside panels.
In another aspect of the present invention there is provided a blank adapted to be constructed to form a self-supporting greeting card comprising:
a single piece of material divided into at least three panels in seriatim by respective fold lines;
an opening in one of said at least three panels through which a graphic is to be visible; and adhesive means on at least one of said at least three panels in the form o~ at least one adhesive strip.
The present invention provides advantages in that the greeting card provides a self mount for the graphic incs)rporated within it while concealing any information on the interior of the greeting card. The greeting , ~ :
. . , 2 ~ A~3j 3 card also allows the graph;c to be easily attached to it ;n a manner so that it is oriented properly with respect to the opening in the panel.
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a blank capable of forming a greeting card taken from above and illustrating the interior of the blank;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the blank of Figure 1 illustrating the exterior of the blank;
Figure 3 is a perspectiYe view of a greeting card formed from the blank of Figure 1 illustrating the interior of the greeting card;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the greeting card of Figure 3 illustrating the e3~terior of the greeting card;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a blank capable of forming a greeting card taken from above and illustrating the interior of the blank;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the blank of Figure S
illustrating the exterior of the blank;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a greeting c~rd formed from the blank of Figure 5 illustrating the interior of the greeting card;
Figure 8 is a perspective vie~1v of the greeting card of Figure 7 illustrating the exterior of the greeting card;
Figures 9 to 11 are perspective views of another embodiment of a blank capable of forming a greeting card and a greeting card formed from the blank; :.
2~33 Figures 12 to 14 are perspective views of yet another embodiment of a blank capable of form;ng a greeting card and a greeting card formed from the blank; and Figures 15 to 17 are perspective views of still yet another embodiment o~ a blank capable of forming a greeting card and a greeting card formed from the blank.
Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, a blank 10 capable of forming a greeting card 50 (see Figures 3 and 4) is shown and is gencrally indicated by reference numeral 10. The blank 10 is formed of paper stock or other suitable material which is sufficiently strong such that when the blank is constructed toform the greeting card7 the greeting card 50 is self-supporting. Self-supportingin this context means that, when the greeting card 50 is in the normal display position, the greeting card supports itself upright.
As can be seen, the blank 10 includes three panels in seriatim, namely a first end panel 12, a center panel 14 and second end panel 16. The first and second end panels 12 and 16 respectively are joined to opposite sides of the center panel 14 by respective fold or score lines 18 and 20 allowing the end panels t~ be folded about the fold lines onto the center panel 14 as will bedescribed.
The center panel 14 has an oval opening 22 in it whose size is sufficient to show a major portion of a graphic 23 such as a photograph or the like which is to be incorporated within the g~eeting card 50. The position of the opening 22 is more or less centrally aligned at least in relation to two opposed sizes of the center panel 14.
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2~2~33 A pair of laterally spaced, double-sided adhesive strips 24 and 26 are located on ~he interior surface 12a of the first end panel 12, Adhesive strip 24 runs ~longside the marginal side edge 12c of the first end panel 12 andterminates short of ~he top and bottom of the first end panel. Adhesive strip 26on the other hand is located intermediate the sides of the first end panel 12 but similarly terminates short of the top and bottom of the first end panel. The exposed side of each adhesive strip ;s cover~d with a remo~able protective cov~ing (not shown) to preserve the adhesive nature of the adhesive strips untilthe blank 10 is to be constructed to fiorm the greeting card 50.
On the interior surface 12a of the first end panel between the adhesive strips 24 and 26 and on the interior surface 14a of the center p,anel 14 above the aperture 22 are located pre-printed indicia 28 and 30 respectively.
The indicia 28 and 30 provide instructions to an individual on how to place a graphic 23 and assemble the blank 10 to form the greeting card 50. The interior surface 16a of the secood end panel 16 is blank to allow an indlividualto personalize the greeting card 50 as desired. The exterior surface 12b of the first end panel 12 and the exterior surface 14b o~ the center panel 14 are also blank while the exterior surface 16b of the second end panel 12 has pre-printed indicia 32 concerning the manufacturer and/or designer of the greeting card.
Figures 3 ~d 4 show the greeting card 50 constructed from the blank 10 with the graphic 23 incorporated within it. As can be seen, the blank exterior surface 12b of the first end panel 12 and the blank interior surface 16a of the second end panel 16 constitute the interior of the greeting card and provide ample blank space for an individual to personalize the greeting card 50.Individual in this context includes either an individual purchaser who personalizes the greeting card 50 for their own purposes or a commercial .`' ' '` ' ~ ~: `' `: . ' ~ ` ` ' , ''; ' ` `'', ' . ' '' 2 ~3 c~ c~
purchaser purchasing blank greeting cards in ~quantity so that their own commercially printed material may be printec! on the interior of the greeting card. The graphic 23 is held between the first end panel 12 and the center panel 14 and is clearly visible through the opening 22. When the second end S panel 16 and center panel 14 are folded in relation to one another about the fold line 20 in the direction of arrGw 52, the greeting card 50 assumes the normal display position and is self-supporting provided a standing mount for the graphie 23 while concealing any personalized message written on the interior of the greeting card 50.
The construction of the blank lû to forrn the greeting card 50 will now be described with referenc~ to Pigures 1 to 4. When the blank lû is purchased by an individual, it does not include any graphic and the removable protective coverings ~over the adhesive strips 24 and 26. When the inclividual wishes to construct the greeting card, a graphic 23 such as a photo~raph in the possession of the individual is selected. The protective covering on the adhesive strip 26 is first removed as this adhesive strip is designed primarily to hold the graphic 23 in place in a manner such that when the greeting c~rd 50 is constructed, the graphic will be seen as desired through the opening 22.
Once the protective covering on the adhesive strip 26 has been removed, the graphic 23 is placed ~ace up on the interior sur~ace 12a and over the adhesive str.ip 26 so that the adhesive strip holds the graphic in place on the encl panel 12 as shown in Figure 1.
The adhesive strip 26 is positioned on the first end panel 12 so that when the gIaphic 23 is plac~l on the interior surface 12a of the first end panel 12 and oriented so that it will be seen as desired through the opening 22,a significant portion of the adhesive strip 26 contacts the graphic intermediate ,, . , . . , - ~ ` : ~ ~ , 3 ~
its sides so that the sides of the graphic remain free. Once ~he graphic has been attached to the first end panel 12, the pro~ective coating is removed from the other adhesive strip 24 and the first end panel 12 and center panel 14 are folded in relation to one another abou~ fold line 18 in the direction of arrows 56 to bring the two panels into juxtaposition. When the two panels 12 and 14 contact one another, the adhesive strip 24 acts ~ secure the two panels together with the graphic 23 trapped between them and visible through the opening 22. Also, any part of the adhesive strip 26 that is not covered by the graphic 23 acts to secure the two panels 12 and 1~ together.
Once this has been done, a personalized message can be written on the blank interior of the greeting card 50 and/or th~ second end panel 16 canbe folded in relation to the center panel 14 about fold line 20. The greeting card 50 can then be inserted int~ an envelope for delivery or can self-support itself in the normal display position to provide a mount for the graphic 23 while concealing any messages written on the interior of the greeting card 50.
The design of the adhesive strips 24 and 26 for holding the graphic 23 and securing the first end panel 12 to the center panel 14 Tespectively, provide significant advantages ~ver the pnor art. B~ause the adhesive strip 26 is designed to contact only a small portion of the graphic 23 and is positioned so that it is spaced from the side edges of the first end panel 12, the graphic can be oriented to ensure that i~ will be seen in the desired orientation through the opening 22. This allows a gIaphic having deficiencies in the alignment of its linear features to be oriented and placed on the first end panel 12 such that the features of the graphic 23 appsar aligned when seen thrwgh the opening 22 without requiring trimrning of the graphic. This is significant in the case of graphics in the form of photographs where many ~ ~ O ~ 3 3 different film formats and print dimensions are available resulting in finished prints which vary in dimension. Also, because the adhesive strip 26 contacts only a small portion ~f the graphic 23, the graphic can be easily removed from the adhesive strip 26if it is plaeed incorrectly on the first end panel 12 by anindividual. In additic)n, because the adhesive strip 26 contacts the back of thegraphic 23, no visible adhesive marks are left on the front of the graphic 23 should it be removed from the adhesive strip 26 and then replaced.
Moreover, the use of two adhesive strips 24 and 26 covered with protective coverings which are only to be removed at the time the graphic 23 is to be mounted and the panels 12 and 14 are to be secured to one another, has a further ad~ntage. By employing two separate adhesive strips each with its own protective covering, the mounting of the graphic 23 and the sealing ~f the two panels 12 and 14 together may be accomplished as a two-step procedure.
When mounting the graphic 23, only the adhesive strip 26 needs to be exposed.
In this way, the graphic mounting process is simplified and an individual need not be concerned with the panels 12 and 14 sticking to themselves prematurely or to other objects. Once the graphic 23 has been suitably mountecl on the firstend panel 12, the protective cwering on adhesive strip 24 is removed ~d the two panels 12 and 14 can be folded in relation to one another about fold line 18 to secure them together. In this way, errors in mounting and sealing are more easily avoided and the integrity of the a~dhesive strips are better preserved for their intended purposes.
A further advanklge of the present invention is that the greeting card 50 is self-matting and is designed to reduce significantly the skill required to achieve a proper matt as compared with the prior art. Because the adhesive strip 26 is designed to contact the graphic 23 intermediate its side edges, the ,, graphic is free to lie flat against the first end panel 12. As the first end panel 12 is folded towards the center panel 14, the graphic 23 is encouraged to lie flat without retaining any curvature which may be inherent in the graphic itself fromprevious handl;ng or production since the edges of the graphic are free. The S graphic is held flat by the pressure of the center panel 14 against the face of the graphic. The adhesive strip 24 and the portion of the adhesive strip 26 not covered ~y the graphic 23 secure the first end panel 12 to the center panel 14 in a manner such that sufficient pressure is placed on the face of the graphic about the opening 22 to provide an effective matt on all sides of the graphic.
The pressure placed on the graphic 23 by the first end panel 12 and center panel 14 between the points of adhesion joining the two panels is maint~ined by the rigidity of the material used to form the greeting card 50.
Although the adhesive strips 24 and 26 have been desclibed as functioning separately, one to secure the two panels 12 and 14 together ,and oneto hold the graphic 23 in place, it should be appreciated that these functions will be dependant on the size o~ the graphic selected by the individual that is to beincorporated within the greeting card 5û. It is of course preferred that the graphic 23 is of a size so that it is only held b~, the adhesive s~rip 26 while still being seen in the desired manner through the opening 22 with the adhesive strip 24 only functioning to hold the. two panels 12 and 14 together. If a larger graphic 23 is selected which covers at least a portion of both adhesive strips 24 and 26, some of the advantages of the greeting card 50 with respect to ease of placement of the graphic and assembly of the blank 10 to form the greeting card may be lost. However, the greeting card S0 will still function satisfactorily tohold the graphic 23 and secure the two panels 12 and 14 together provided at least a portion of one of the adhesive strips 24 and 26 is not coveI~ by th~
graphic.
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The design of the greeting card 50 is also such tha~ i~ will function satis~actorily if a smaller graphic 23 is selected which is of a dimension such that it does not touch either of the adhesive strips 24 and 26 when positioned so that it will be seen in the desired manner through the opening 22. In this case, the adhesive strips 24 and 26 and the material from which the greeting card 50 is ~ormed, are such that the pressure between the end panel 12 and the center panel 14 is suflicient to main:ain the graphic 23 inthe desired orientation between the panels so that it is visible as desired through the opening 22.
Referring now to Figures 5 to 8, an alternative embodiment of a blank 10' capable of forming a greeting card 50' is shown. In this embodiment, like reference numerals will be used to indicate like components with a ""' added for clarity. Similar to the previous embodiment, the interior surface 12a' of the first end panel 12' has a pair of laterally spaced, adhesivestrips 24' and 26' on it although they are arranged on the interior surface 12a'differently. In particular, both adhesive skips are spaced from the side edges of the first end panel 12' and terminate short of its top and bottom edges.
Sirnilar to the previous embodiment, adhesive strip 26' is designed to hold the graphic 23' but is positioned to contact the grapSIic along one ~f its side edges.
In this way, the opposite side of the graphic 23' remains free allowing the graphic to lay ~lat between the first end panel 12' and the eenter panel 14' when the tw~ panels are folded in relation to one another about ~old line 18' in the direction of arrows 5S' to overlie one another. Although not manclatory, it is preferr~l that the adhesive strips 24' and 26' are spaced apart a distance greater than the width of the opening 22' in the center panel 14' and so that the distance between the inside edges 24a' and 26a' of the adhesi~e strips 24' and .i.- ~;, :~ :
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26' respectively is less than the width of the grdphic 23' to be incorporated within the greeting card 50'.
Unlikc the blank of the first embodiment, the interior surface 16a' of the second end panel 16' and the exterior surface 12b' of the first end panel 12' have pre-printed indicia 60 and 62 respectively on them which is concealed within the interior of the greeting card 50' when the blank 10' is constructed and the greeting card is self-supporting. In this example, the interior surface 16a' of the second end panel 16' has a poem on it while the exterior surface 12b' of the first end panel 12' has a form with blanks for inf~rmation to be inserted concerning the graphic 23' to be incorporated within the greeting card 50'. In addition, the exterior surface 14b' of the center panel 14' has pre-printed indicia 64 on it above the aperture 22'. Accordingly, information for any occasion such as births, birthd~ys etc. may be printed on the surfaces on the end panels 12 and 16.
Referring now to Figures 9 to 11, yet another alternatiYe embodiment of a blank 110 capable of forming a greeting card 150 is shvwn.
In this embodiment like reference numerals will be used to indicate like 2~ components with a " 100" added for clarity. In this embodiment, the blank 110 includes four panels 70 to 76, namely two outside pancls 70 and 72 and two inside panels 74 and 76. Each of the panels is foldable in relation to the panelbeside it ~da fold lines 78 to 82. The two ou~side panels 70 and 72 ha~e an opening 122 in them to display a graphic 123. lEach of the inside panels 74 and 76 has a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips 124 and 126 on its interior sur~ace. Similar to the previous embodiments, the adhesive strips 124 and 126 are designed to hold the graphic 123 in place on the panel and to secure one of ,;~: ~ , ~1 ~'2~3~
the outside panels to it when that outside panel is folded to overlie the panel on which the adhesiYe strips are located.
In use, the protective coverings on the adhesive strips 126 are S removed in the manner described previnusly and a graphic 123 is oriented on each of the inside panels 74 and 76 in the desired manner with the adhesive strips 126 holding the graphics. The protective coverings on the adhesive strips124 are then remo~ed and the outside panels 74 and 76 are folded about fold lines 78 and 82 to overlie the inside panels 70 and 72 and form the greeting card 150. The adhesive strips 124 act to secure the panels together with the graphics visible through the openings 122. The greeting card l5U can either be folded about fold line 80 so that the graphics 123 are within the interior of the greeting card as shown in Figure 11 or folded about fold line 80 in the oppositedirection so that the graphics 123 are on the exterior of the greeting card. In the latter case, the interior of the greeting card 150 can accommodate written or pre-printed messages and conceal any such message when the greeting card is self-supporting and provides a moun~ for the ~Iaphics. Accordingly, this embodiment of the present invention allows two graphics to be mounted in tandem.
Figures 12 to 14 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of a blank 210 capable of forming a greeting card 250. In this embodiment like reference numerals will be used to indicate like components with a "~00" added for clarity. In this embodiment, the blank 210 is very similar to that shown in E~igures 1 to 4 except that the locations of the adhf~sive strips 724 and 226 and the opening 222 are reversed. As can be seen, the end panel 212 has the opening 222 in it while the exterior surface 214b of the center panel 214 has ~he adhesive strips 224 and 226 on it. In use, with the protective coverings - 15- :
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21~2~ ~3 :'' removed from the adhesive strips 224 and 226, the graphic 223 is positioned on the exterior surface 214b of the center panel 214 and the first end panel 212 is-folded about fold line 218 to overlie the center panel 214 so that the graphic 223 is visible lhrough the opening 222 with the two panels secured together.
S This design of the blank 210 provides advantages in that ;t is easier to manufacture than blank 10. Howe~er, when the blank 210 is constructed to form the greeting card 250, a free edge located on the exterior of the greeting card running along the fold line 220 results.
Figures lS to 17 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of a blank 310 capable of forming a greet;ng card 350. In this embodiment like reference nurnerals will be usecl to indicate like components with a "300" addedfor clarity. In this embodiment, the blank 310 is virtually identic~l to that : shown in Figures 12 to 14 with the exception that the opening 322 is provided in the second end panel 316 so that when the greeting card 350 is constructed with the graphic 323 incorporated within it, the graphic 323 is positionecl within ;1 the interior of the greeting card.
Although the greeting cards have been shown with rectangular and oval shaped openings in the center and end panels~ it should be apparent to those of skill in the art that any size or shaped opening is suit~ble. rO achieve a desirable aesthetic result, it is also preferred that the dimensions of the x. open;ng do not exceed those of the graphic. It should also be realiæd that although the greeting cards are shown in the displayed position standing on the bottom edges of the panels, the greeting cards can be oriented horizontally withthe greeting cards standing on the -free side edges of the panels in the normal :~ display position. In addition, the exterior swr~ace of the panel or panels having .~;
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-the opening through which the graphic is visible can include pre-pIinted designson it so that the visual appearance of the graphic is enhanced.
It should also be apparent to those of skill in the art that the S adhesive strips may be arranged so that one adhesive strip is on one of the two panels to be folded to overlie one another and the vther adhesive strip is on the other of the two panels. Alsci, only one adhesive strip need be included which is dimensioned to hold not only the graphic but also to secure the two panels together.
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An alternative mailable postcard is disclosed in U.S. Patent No.
4,825,574 to George. This postcard includes two panels with a pre-cut window formed in one of the panels. An adhesive material is applied to the inside face of the one panel and is covered by a removable release material. A photograph may be afflxed to the panel having the pre-cut opening by remGving the release material and afflxing the photograph to the adhesive material fàce down. The other panel may then be folded to overlie the one panel to form a backing for the photograph with the adhesive material on the one panel also acting to securethe two panels together. The other panel includes pre-cut tabs that may be pulled out from the panel and angled to the plane of that panel so as to form aneasel f~r standing the photograph in a displayed position and/or for secuIing the entire assembly to a wall or other surface.
, Similar to the Pifer postcard, the George postcard is of a design which is not suited to a greeting card. In its closed position with the photograph mounted, no writing surface is available except on a portion of one face of the postcard opposite the face displaying the photograph. In all circumstances, this face is in plain view and does not afford privacy of communication and may be read by anyone who sees it either before or after mallmg.
The George and Pifer postcards may also cause the user considerable difficulty when mounting the photographs and assembling the postcards due to the fact that the entire surfaces of the panels to which the photographs are to be attached are covered with an adhesive material. In order to accomplish a proper matt, skill is required on the part of the user and greatcare must be exercised when mounting the photograph to ensure that the photograph is properly aligned wi~hin the frame describ~ by the opening in the S panel and ~at against the adhesive material. The same considerations pertain with respect to securing the two panels together after the photograph has been mounted. Failure to ensure that the photograph and panels are properly aligned or evenly matted may result in irregularities in the surface of the matt caused by buckling of either the photograph itself, the panel to which the photograph 1~ is attached or the panel to which that panel is secured.
As well, minor deviations in the angle of the fold between the two panels which may be caused by the user exerting unequal pressure on either side of the panel when folding it, may cause misalignment of the two panels along their outer edges. This may make trimming or sorne other coI~ective procedure necess~y to achieYe a properly aesthetic result. In the case of the George postcard, such misalignment may also adversely affect the ability of the pre-cut tabs to function as the easel for the photograph. Accordingly, there exists a need for a greeting card to carry a graphic such as a photograph or thelike which obviates or mitigates at least some of the above-described disad~antages.
It is therefore an object ~f the present invention to pravide a novel self-supporting greeting card and a hlank therefor.
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According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a self-supporting greeting card comprising:
a single piece of material divided in~o at least three panels, ea~h of said at least three panels being foldable in relation to the adjoining panel, one of said at least three panels having an opening therein to display a graphic;
means for holding said graphic in position over said opening; and means for securing one of said at least three panels to an adjoining panel with saisi graphic therebetween in position over said opening when said one panel is folded to overlie the other panel to form said greeting card.
Pr~ferably, the single piece of material is divided into a center panel and first and second end panels with one of the end panels overlying the center panel to form the greeting card. It is also preferred that the holding means and the securing means are in the form ~f a pair of laterally spaced, adhesi~e strips locat~d on either the first end panel or the center panel. In one embodiment, one of the adhesive strips constitutes the holding means while the other adhesive strip constitutes the securing means. In this embodiment, it is preferred that the one adhesive strip is located on eith~r the first end panel or the center panel in a position to contact ~he graphic intermediate its side edges.
In this position, the one adhesi~e strip can also accs~mrnodate an orien~ation of the graphic to compensate for de~ciencies in its aligr2ment.
In another embodiment, both of the adhesive strips ale spaced from the edges of either the first end panel or the center panel with the distance between the inside edges of the adhesive strips being less than the width ~f thegraphic. In this arrangement, one of the adhesive stnps is positioned to hold the g aphic atong one of its side edges with the other side edt e of the graphic ., ..
2 ~ ~ 3 remaining free and the other adhesive strip acts to secure the first end panel and the center panel together.
In another embodiment, the single piece of material is divided into two outside panels and two inside panels, each outside panel being associated with the inside panel to which it is adjoined to define two sets of panels9 one panel of each set having an opening therein to display a graphic, means for holding the graphic in position over the opening and means for securing the two panels of each set together when the panels of each set are folded to overlie one another with the graphic therebetween in position over theopening. In this embodiment, it is preferred that each of the outside panels hasthe opening therein and that the holding means and securing means are in the form of a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips on each of the inside panels.
In another aspect of the present invention there is provided a blank adapted to be constructed to form a self-supporting greeting card comprising:
a single piece of material divided into at least three panels in seriatim by respective fold lines;
an opening in one of said at least three panels through which a graphic is to be visible; and adhesive means on at least one of said at least three panels in the form o~ at least one adhesive strip.
The present invention provides advantages in that the greeting card provides a self mount for the graphic incs)rporated within it while concealing any information on the interior of the greeting card. The greeting , ~ :
. . , 2 ~ A~3j 3 card also allows the graph;c to be easily attached to it ;n a manner so that it is oriented properly with respect to the opening in the panel.
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a blank capable of forming a greeting card taken from above and illustrating the interior of the blank;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the blank of Figure 1 illustrating the exterior of the blank;
Figure 3 is a perspectiYe view of a greeting card formed from the blank of Figure 1 illustrating the interior of the greeting card;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the greeting card of Figure 3 illustrating the e3~terior of the greeting card;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a blank capable of forming a greeting card taken from above and illustrating the interior of the blank;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the blank of Figure S
illustrating the exterior of the blank;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a greeting c~rd formed from the blank of Figure 5 illustrating the interior of the greeting card;
Figure 8 is a perspective vie~1v of the greeting card of Figure 7 illustrating the exterior of the greeting card;
Figures 9 to 11 are perspective views of another embodiment of a blank capable of forming a greeting card and a greeting card formed from the blank; :.
2~33 Figures 12 to 14 are perspective views of yet another embodiment of a blank capable of form;ng a greeting card and a greeting card formed from the blank; and Figures 15 to 17 are perspective views of still yet another embodiment o~ a blank capable of forming a greeting card and a greeting card formed from the blank.
Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, a blank 10 capable of forming a greeting card 50 (see Figures 3 and 4) is shown and is gencrally indicated by reference numeral 10. The blank 10 is formed of paper stock or other suitable material which is sufficiently strong such that when the blank is constructed toform the greeting card7 the greeting card 50 is self-supporting. Self-supportingin this context means that, when the greeting card 50 is in the normal display position, the greeting card supports itself upright.
As can be seen, the blank 10 includes three panels in seriatim, namely a first end panel 12, a center panel 14 and second end panel 16. The first and second end panels 12 and 16 respectively are joined to opposite sides of the center panel 14 by respective fold or score lines 18 and 20 allowing the end panels t~ be folded about the fold lines onto the center panel 14 as will bedescribed.
The center panel 14 has an oval opening 22 in it whose size is sufficient to show a major portion of a graphic 23 such as a photograph or the like which is to be incorporated within the g~eeting card 50. The position of the opening 22 is more or less centrally aligned at least in relation to two opposed sizes of the center panel 14.
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2~2~33 A pair of laterally spaced, double-sided adhesive strips 24 and 26 are located on ~he interior surface 12a of the first end panel 12, Adhesive strip 24 runs ~longside the marginal side edge 12c of the first end panel 12 andterminates short of ~he top and bottom of the first end panel. Adhesive strip 26on the other hand is located intermediate the sides of the first end panel 12 but similarly terminates short of the top and bottom of the first end panel. The exposed side of each adhesive strip ;s cover~d with a remo~able protective cov~ing (not shown) to preserve the adhesive nature of the adhesive strips untilthe blank 10 is to be constructed to fiorm the greeting card 50.
On the interior surface 12a of the first end panel between the adhesive strips 24 and 26 and on the interior surface 14a of the center p,anel 14 above the aperture 22 are located pre-printed indicia 28 and 30 respectively.
The indicia 28 and 30 provide instructions to an individual on how to place a graphic 23 and assemble the blank 10 to form the greeting card 50. The interior surface 16a of the secood end panel 16 is blank to allow an indlividualto personalize the greeting card 50 as desired. The exterior surface 12b of the first end panel 12 and the exterior surface 14b o~ the center panel 14 are also blank while the exterior surface 16b of the second end panel 12 has pre-printed indicia 32 concerning the manufacturer and/or designer of the greeting card.
Figures 3 ~d 4 show the greeting card 50 constructed from the blank 10 with the graphic 23 incorporated within it. As can be seen, the blank exterior surface 12b of the first end panel 12 and the blank interior surface 16a of the second end panel 16 constitute the interior of the greeting card and provide ample blank space for an individual to personalize the greeting card 50.Individual in this context includes either an individual purchaser who personalizes the greeting card 50 for their own purposes or a commercial .`' ' '` ' ~ ~: `' `: . ' ~ ` ` ' , ''; ' ` `'', ' . ' '' 2 ~3 c~ c~
purchaser purchasing blank greeting cards in ~quantity so that their own commercially printed material may be printec! on the interior of the greeting card. The graphic 23 is held between the first end panel 12 and the center panel 14 and is clearly visible through the opening 22. When the second end S panel 16 and center panel 14 are folded in relation to one another about the fold line 20 in the direction of arrGw 52, the greeting card 50 assumes the normal display position and is self-supporting provided a standing mount for the graphie 23 while concealing any personalized message written on the interior of the greeting card 50.
The construction of the blank lû to forrn the greeting card 50 will now be described with referenc~ to Pigures 1 to 4. When the blank lû is purchased by an individual, it does not include any graphic and the removable protective coverings ~over the adhesive strips 24 and 26. When the inclividual wishes to construct the greeting card, a graphic 23 such as a photo~raph in the possession of the individual is selected. The protective covering on the adhesive strip 26 is first removed as this adhesive strip is designed primarily to hold the graphic 23 in place in a manner such that when the greeting c~rd 50 is constructed, the graphic will be seen as desired through the opening 22.
Once the protective covering on the adhesive strip 26 has been removed, the graphic 23 is placed ~ace up on the interior sur~ace 12a and over the adhesive str.ip 26 so that the adhesive strip holds the graphic in place on the encl panel 12 as shown in Figure 1.
The adhesive strip 26 is positioned on the first end panel 12 so that when the gIaphic 23 is plac~l on the interior surface 12a of the first end panel 12 and oriented so that it will be seen as desired through the opening 22,a significant portion of the adhesive strip 26 contacts the graphic intermediate ,, . , . . , - ~ ` : ~ ~ , 3 ~
its sides so that the sides of the graphic remain free. Once ~he graphic has been attached to the first end panel 12, the pro~ective coating is removed from the other adhesive strip 24 and the first end panel 12 and center panel 14 are folded in relation to one another abou~ fold line 18 in the direction of arrows 56 to bring the two panels into juxtaposition. When the two panels 12 and 14 contact one another, the adhesive strip 24 acts ~ secure the two panels together with the graphic 23 trapped between them and visible through the opening 22. Also, any part of the adhesive strip 26 that is not covered by the graphic 23 acts to secure the two panels 12 and 1~ together.
Once this has been done, a personalized message can be written on the blank interior of the greeting card 50 and/or th~ second end panel 16 canbe folded in relation to the center panel 14 about fold line 20. The greeting card 50 can then be inserted int~ an envelope for delivery or can self-support itself in the normal display position to provide a mount for the graphic 23 while concealing any messages written on the interior of the greeting card 50.
The design of the adhesive strips 24 and 26 for holding the graphic 23 and securing the first end panel 12 to the center panel 14 Tespectively, provide significant advantages ~ver the pnor art. B~ause the adhesive strip 26 is designed to contact only a small portion of the graphic 23 and is positioned so that it is spaced from the side edges of the first end panel 12, the graphic can be oriented to ensure that i~ will be seen in the desired orientation through the opening 22. This allows a gIaphic having deficiencies in the alignment of its linear features to be oriented and placed on the first end panel 12 such that the features of the graphic 23 appsar aligned when seen thrwgh the opening 22 without requiring trimrning of the graphic. This is significant in the case of graphics in the form of photographs where many ~ ~ O ~ 3 3 different film formats and print dimensions are available resulting in finished prints which vary in dimension. Also, because the adhesive strip 26 contacts only a small portion ~f the graphic 23, the graphic can be easily removed from the adhesive strip 26if it is plaeed incorrectly on the first end panel 12 by anindividual. In additic)n, because the adhesive strip 26 contacts the back of thegraphic 23, no visible adhesive marks are left on the front of the graphic 23 should it be removed from the adhesive strip 26 and then replaced.
Moreover, the use of two adhesive strips 24 and 26 covered with protective coverings which are only to be removed at the time the graphic 23 is to be mounted and the panels 12 and 14 are to be secured to one another, has a further ad~ntage. By employing two separate adhesive strips each with its own protective covering, the mounting of the graphic 23 and the sealing ~f the two panels 12 and 14 together may be accomplished as a two-step procedure.
When mounting the graphic 23, only the adhesive strip 26 needs to be exposed.
In this way, the graphic mounting process is simplified and an individual need not be concerned with the panels 12 and 14 sticking to themselves prematurely or to other objects. Once the graphic 23 has been suitably mountecl on the firstend panel 12, the protective cwering on adhesive strip 24 is removed ~d the two panels 12 and 14 can be folded in relation to one another about fold line 18 to secure them together. In this way, errors in mounting and sealing are more easily avoided and the integrity of the a~dhesive strips are better preserved for their intended purposes.
A further advanklge of the present invention is that the greeting card 50 is self-matting and is designed to reduce significantly the skill required to achieve a proper matt as compared with the prior art. Because the adhesive strip 26 is designed to contact the graphic 23 intermediate its side edges, the ,, graphic is free to lie flat against the first end panel 12. As the first end panel 12 is folded towards the center panel 14, the graphic 23 is encouraged to lie flat without retaining any curvature which may be inherent in the graphic itself fromprevious handl;ng or production since the edges of the graphic are free. The S graphic is held flat by the pressure of the center panel 14 against the face of the graphic. The adhesive strip 24 and the portion of the adhesive strip 26 not covered ~y the graphic 23 secure the first end panel 12 to the center panel 14 in a manner such that sufficient pressure is placed on the face of the graphic about the opening 22 to provide an effective matt on all sides of the graphic.
The pressure placed on the graphic 23 by the first end panel 12 and center panel 14 between the points of adhesion joining the two panels is maint~ined by the rigidity of the material used to form the greeting card 50.
Although the adhesive strips 24 and 26 have been desclibed as functioning separately, one to secure the two panels 12 and 14 together ,and oneto hold the graphic 23 in place, it should be appreciated that these functions will be dependant on the size o~ the graphic selected by the individual that is to beincorporated within the greeting card 5û. It is of course preferred that the graphic 23 is of a size so that it is only held b~, the adhesive s~rip 26 while still being seen in the desired manner through the opening 22 with the adhesive strip 24 only functioning to hold the. two panels 12 and 14 together. If a larger graphic 23 is selected which covers at least a portion of both adhesive strips 24 and 26, some of the advantages of the greeting card 50 with respect to ease of placement of the graphic and assembly of the blank 10 to form the greeting card may be lost. However, the greeting card S0 will still function satisfactorily tohold the graphic 23 and secure the two panels 12 and 14 together provided at least a portion of one of the adhesive strips 24 and 26 is not coveI~ by th~
graphic.
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The design of the greeting card 50 is also such tha~ i~ will function satis~actorily if a smaller graphic 23 is selected which is of a dimension such that it does not touch either of the adhesive strips 24 and 26 when positioned so that it will be seen in the desired manner through the opening 22. In this case, the adhesive strips 24 and 26 and the material from which the greeting card 50 is ~ormed, are such that the pressure between the end panel 12 and the center panel 14 is suflicient to main:ain the graphic 23 inthe desired orientation between the panels so that it is visible as desired through the opening 22.
Referring now to Figures 5 to 8, an alternative embodiment of a blank 10' capable of forming a greeting card 50' is shown. In this embodiment, like reference numerals will be used to indicate like components with a ""' added for clarity. Similar to the previous embodiment, the interior surface 12a' of the first end panel 12' has a pair of laterally spaced, adhesivestrips 24' and 26' on it although they are arranged on the interior surface 12a'differently. In particular, both adhesive skips are spaced from the side edges of the first end panel 12' and terminate short of its top and bottom edges.
Sirnilar to the previous embodiment, adhesive strip 26' is designed to hold the graphic 23' but is positioned to contact the grapSIic along one ~f its side edges.
In this way, the opposite side of the graphic 23' remains free allowing the graphic to lay ~lat between the first end panel 12' and the eenter panel 14' when the tw~ panels are folded in relation to one another about ~old line 18' in the direction of arrows 5S' to overlie one another. Although not manclatory, it is preferr~l that the adhesive strips 24' and 26' are spaced apart a distance greater than the width of the opening 22' in the center panel 14' and so that the distance between the inside edges 24a' and 26a' of the adhesi~e strips 24' and .i.- ~;, :~ :
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26' respectively is less than the width of the grdphic 23' to be incorporated within the greeting card 50'.
Unlikc the blank of the first embodiment, the interior surface 16a' of the second end panel 16' and the exterior surface 12b' of the first end panel 12' have pre-printed indicia 60 and 62 respectively on them which is concealed within the interior of the greeting card 50' when the blank 10' is constructed and the greeting card is self-supporting. In this example, the interior surface 16a' of the second end panel 16' has a poem on it while the exterior surface 12b' of the first end panel 12' has a form with blanks for inf~rmation to be inserted concerning the graphic 23' to be incorporated within the greeting card 50'. In addition, the exterior surface 14b' of the center panel 14' has pre-printed indicia 64 on it above the aperture 22'. Accordingly, information for any occasion such as births, birthd~ys etc. may be printed on the surfaces on the end panels 12 and 16.
Referring now to Figures 9 to 11, yet another alternatiYe embodiment of a blank 110 capable of forming a greeting card 150 is shvwn.
In this embodiment like reference numerals will be used to indicate like 2~ components with a " 100" added for clarity. In this embodiment, the blank 110 includes four panels 70 to 76, namely two outside pancls 70 and 72 and two inside panels 74 and 76. Each of the panels is foldable in relation to the panelbeside it ~da fold lines 78 to 82. The two ou~side panels 70 and 72 ha~e an opening 122 in them to display a graphic 123. lEach of the inside panels 74 and 76 has a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips 124 and 126 on its interior sur~ace. Similar to the previous embodiments, the adhesive strips 124 and 126 are designed to hold the graphic 123 in place on the panel and to secure one of ,;~: ~ , ~1 ~'2~3~
the outside panels to it when that outside panel is folded to overlie the panel on which the adhesiYe strips are located.
In use, the protective coverings on the adhesive strips 126 are S removed in the manner described previnusly and a graphic 123 is oriented on each of the inside panels 74 and 76 in the desired manner with the adhesive strips 126 holding the graphics. The protective coverings on the adhesive strips124 are then remo~ed and the outside panels 74 and 76 are folded about fold lines 78 and 82 to overlie the inside panels 70 and 72 and form the greeting card 150. The adhesive strips 124 act to secure the panels together with the graphics visible through the openings 122. The greeting card l5U can either be folded about fold line 80 so that the graphics 123 are within the interior of the greeting card as shown in Figure 11 or folded about fold line 80 in the oppositedirection so that the graphics 123 are on the exterior of the greeting card. In the latter case, the interior of the greeting card 150 can accommodate written or pre-printed messages and conceal any such message when the greeting card is self-supporting and provides a moun~ for the ~Iaphics. Accordingly, this embodiment of the present invention allows two graphics to be mounted in tandem.
Figures 12 to 14 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of a blank 210 capable of forming a greeting card 250. In this embodiment like reference numerals will be used to indicate like components with a "~00" added for clarity. In this embodiment, the blank 210 is very similar to that shown in E~igures 1 to 4 except that the locations of the adhf~sive strips 724 and 226 and the opening 222 are reversed. As can be seen, the end panel 212 has the opening 222 in it while the exterior surface 214b of the center panel 214 has ~he adhesive strips 224 and 226 on it. In use, with the protective coverings - 15- :
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21~2~ ~3 :'' removed from the adhesive strips 224 and 226, the graphic 223 is positioned on the exterior surface 214b of the center panel 214 and the first end panel 212 is-folded about fold line 218 to overlie the center panel 214 so that the graphic 223 is visible lhrough the opening 222 with the two panels secured together.
S This design of the blank 210 provides advantages in that ;t is easier to manufacture than blank 10. Howe~er, when the blank 210 is constructed to form the greeting card 250, a free edge located on the exterior of the greeting card running along the fold line 220 results.
Figures lS to 17 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of a blank 310 capable of forming a greet;ng card 350. In this embodiment like reference nurnerals will be usecl to indicate like components with a "300" addedfor clarity. In this embodiment, the blank 310 is virtually identic~l to that : shown in Figures 12 to 14 with the exception that the opening 322 is provided in the second end panel 316 so that when the greeting card 350 is constructed with the graphic 323 incorporated within it, the graphic 323 is positionecl within ;1 the interior of the greeting card.
Although the greeting cards have been shown with rectangular and oval shaped openings in the center and end panels~ it should be apparent to those of skill in the art that any size or shaped opening is suit~ble. rO achieve a desirable aesthetic result, it is also preferred that the dimensions of the x. open;ng do not exceed those of the graphic. It should also be realiæd that although the greeting cards are shown in the displayed position standing on the bottom edges of the panels, the greeting cards can be oriented horizontally withthe greeting cards standing on the -free side edges of the panels in the normal :~ display position. In addition, the exterior swr~ace of the panel or panels having .~;
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-the opening through which the graphic is visible can include pre-pIinted designson it so that the visual appearance of the graphic is enhanced.
It should also be apparent to those of skill in the art that the S adhesive strips may be arranged so that one adhesive strip is on one of the two panels to be folded to overlie one another and the vther adhesive strip is on the other of the two panels. Alsci, only one adhesive strip need be included which is dimensioned to hold not only the graphic but also to secure the two panels together.
~;
Claims (29)
1. A self-supporting greeting card comprising:
a single piece of material divided into at least three panels, each of said at least three panels being foldable in relation to the adjoining panel, one of said at least three panels having an opening therein to display a graphic;
means for holding said graphic in position over said opening; and means for securing one of said at least three panels to an adjoining panel with said graphic therebetween in position over said opening when said one panel is folded to overlie the other panel to form said greeting card.
a single piece of material divided into at least three panels, each of said at least three panels being foldable in relation to the adjoining panel, one of said at least three panels having an opening therein to display a graphic;
means for holding said graphic in position over said opening; and means for securing one of said at least three panels to an adjoining panel with said graphic therebetween in position over said opening when said one panel is folded to overlie the other panel to form said greeting card.
2. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 1 wherein said single piece of material is divided into a center panel and first and second end panels, one of said end panels overlying said center panel to form said greeting card.
3. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 2 wherein said holding means and said securing means are in the form of an adhesive on at least one of said first and second end panels and/or said center panel.
4. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 3 wherein said holding means and said securing means are in the form of at least one adhesive strip.
5. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 4 wherein said holding means and said securing means are in the form of a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips.
6. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 5 wherein one of said adhesive strips constitutes said holding means and the other of said adhesive strips constitutes said securing means, said other adhesive skip running alongside an edge of one of said first and second end panels or said center panel and said one adhesive strip being located intermediate the edges ofone of said first and second end panels or said center panel.
7. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 6 wherein said one adhesive strip is located on one of said first and second end panels orsaid center panel in a position to contact said graphic intermediate its side edges.
8. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 7 wherein the location of said one adhesive strip can accommodate an orientation of said graphic to compensate for deficiencies in its alignment.
9. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 8 wherein portions of said one adhesive strip not covered by said graphic also act as securing means when said one end panel overlies said center panel.
10. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 9 wherein said one and other adhesive strips are located on said first end panel and said opening is in said center panel
11. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 9 wherein said one and other adhesive strips are located on said center panel and said opening is in said first end panel.
12. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 9 wherein said one and other adhesive strips are located on said center panel and said opening is in said second end panel.
13. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 5 wherein both of said adhesive strips constitute said holding means and at least a portion of one of said adhesive strips constitutes said securing means.
14. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 6 wherein both of said adhesive strips are spaced from the edges of one of said end panelsor said center panel.
15. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 14 wherein the distance between the inside edges of the adhesive strips is less than the width of said graphic.
16. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 14 wherein said one and other adhesive strips are located on said first end panel and said opening is in said center panel
17. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 14 wherein said one and other adhesive strips are located on said center panel and said opening is in said first end panel.
18. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 14 wherein said one and other adhesive strips are located on said center panel and said opening is in said second end panel.
19. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 2 wherein said holding means is constituted by the pressure placed on said graphic by saidone end panel and said center panel when said panels are secured together with said graphic therebetween.
20. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 19 wherein said securing means is in the form of an adhesive on at least one of said first and second ends panel and/or said center panel.
21. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 1 wherein said single piece of material is divided into two outside panels and two inside panels, each outside panel being associated with the inside panel to which it isadjoined to define two sets of panels, one panel of each set having an opening therein to display a graphic, means for holding said graphic in position over said opening and means for securing the two panels of each set together when the panels of each set are folded to overlie one another with said graphic therebetween in position over said opening.
22. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 21 wherein each of said outside panels has said opening therein.
23. A self-supporting greeting card as defined in claim 22 wherein said holding means and securing means are in the form of a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips on each of said inside panels.
24. A blank adapted to be constructed to form a self-supporting greeting card comprising:
a single piece of material divided into at least three panels in seriatim by respective fold lines;
an opening in one of said at least three panels through which a graphic is to be visible; and adhesive means on at least one of said at least three panels in the form of at least one adhesive strip.
a single piece of material divided into at least three panels in seriatim by respective fold lines;
an opening in one of said at least three panels through which a graphic is to be visible; and adhesive means on at least one of said at least three panels in the form of at least one adhesive strip.
25. A blank as defined in claim 24 wherein said adhesive means is in the form of a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips on at least one of said panels.
26. A blank as defined in claim 25 wherein said material is divided into three panels, namely a center panel and first and second end panels, said adhesive strips being on said first end panel and said opening being in said center panel.
27. A blank as defined in claim 25 wherein said material is divided into three panels, namely a center panel and first and second end panels, said adhesive strips being on said center panel and said opening being in said first end panel.
28. A blank as defined in claim 25 wherein said material is divided into three panels, namely a center panel and first and second end panels, said adhesive strips being on said center panel and said opening being in said secondend panel.
29. A blank as defined in claim 24 wherein said material is divided into four panels, namely two outside panels and two inside panels, each of said outside panels having an opening therein and each of said inside panels having a pair of laterally spaced, adhesive strips thereon.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US13736193A | 1993-10-18 | 1993-10-18 | |
| US08/137,361 | 1993-10-18 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2102033A1 true CA2102033A1 (en) | 1995-04-19 |
Family
ID=22477059
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2102033 Abandoned CA2102033A1 (en) | 1993-10-18 | 1993-11-18 | Greeting card and blank therefor |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU7849494A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2102033A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1995011134A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AU721905B2 (en) * | 1995-09-26 | 2000-07-20 | Celestino Carosella | Greeting card |
| US6694657B2 (en) * | 2002-04-24 | 2004-02-24 | Chung-Piao Tsao | Picture frame having function of postal card |
| GB0624243D0 (en) * | 2006-12-05 | 2007-01-10 | Hague Stephen | Greeting card |
| GB2461526A (en) * | 2008-07-01 | 2010-01-06 | Bridget Teresa Docking | Display frame for a greeting card |
| FR3139028A1 (en) * | 2022-08-31 | 2024-03-01 | Les Belles Musettes | REUSABLE CARD |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3174244A (en) * | 1963-01-30 | 1965-03-23 | Walton Charles Clark | Combination photograph easel and mailing envelope unit |
| GB1393199A (en) * | 1973-07-04 | 1975-05-07 | Letts J C B | Mounts for pictures photographs and the like |
| US4275517A (en) * | 1977-03-18 | 1981-06-30 | Winthrop-Atkins Co., Inc. | Photograph mount |
| US4825574A (en) * | 1983-03-28 | 1989-05-02 | Metroplex Action, Inc. | Mounting and display medium for a visual display |
-
1993
- 1993-11-18 CA CA 2102033 patent/CA2102033A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
1994
- 1994-10-17 WO PCT/CA1994/000555 patent/WO1995011134A1/en active Application Filing
- 1994-10-17 AU AU78494/94A patent/AU7849494A/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO1995011134A1 (en) | 1995-04-27 |
| AU7849494A (en) | 1995-05-08 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 19971118 |