US20110253575A1

US20110253575A1 - Covers for decorative containers, covered decorative containers, and methods

Info

Publication number: US20110253575A1
Application number: US13/087,566
Authority: US
Inventors: David Lee Addis
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2010-04-16
Filing date: 2011-04-15
Publication date: 2011-10-20

Abstract

A fitted cover for vases and other containers comprised of an elastic sheet of material crafted into a tube. The ends may be left unfinished, finished by sewing or gluing, or heat-treated to reduce fraying. The material may be of any color, pattern, texture or fiber. Additional material may be attached to the exterior of the shape to provide decoration and dimensionality. The cover may be designed and configured to accommodate various sizes and shapes of vessels. One end of the cover can be fitted with a mesh material to aid in the arrangement of flowers, similar to the creation of a tape grid attached to a vase by a floral arranger. The fitted cover can be supplied alone or as a kit including a vase and/or other fitted covers.

Description

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/324,957, filed on Apr. 16, 2010 and titled “Covers For Decorative Containers, Covered Decorative Containers and Methods” which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Decorative containers including vases, glasses, and pots are used for the arrangement of plants, flowers, and other objects. Such decorative containers are available in many shapes, colors, materials, and patterns. It is often desirable to choose a particular decorative container to match a specific person, location, occasion, or contents.
For example, if flowers are displayed in a room having a particular design aesthetic, it is desirable to choose a decorative container with a design which coordinates with the aesthetic of the room. Alternatively, it may be desirable to choose a decorative container which has a design that is suitable for a particular variety of flowers, plants or other objects. Additionally, in some cases a display of flowers, plants, or other objects is made for an occasion such as a birthday, holiday, or other event, and it may be desirable to choose a decorative container with a design which reflects the particular event. For example, it may be desirable to choose a decorative container which displays the phrase “Happy Birthday” on the occasion of a birthday. Additionally, in some cases it may be desirable to choose a decorative container with a design suitable for a particular person. For example, it may be desirable to choose a decorative container of a particular color or design aesthetic that reflects the preferences of a particular person. Additionally, in some cases it may be desirable to choose a decorative container with a design that displays a particular marketing message, image, logo, or advertisement. For example it may be desirable to choose a decorative container that displays particular colors or a design aesthetic suitable for an event where the message is featured.
However, it is a disadvantage of conventional decorative containers that each decorative container has a fixed color, design and/or message. Thus, in order to have available decorative containers suitable for presentation in a wide range of circumstances, it is desirable to have access to a large number of containers with different colors, designs, and/or messages. An individual may not have sufficient space or resources to purchase and/or store such a range of suitable decorative containers. This problem is compounded for a merchant such as a florist, who must keep in stock a large selection of decorative containers to suit the varied needs of potential customers.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

One objective of the present invention is to provide a wide range of decorative containers suitable for a particular person, location, occasion or contents.
Another objective of the present invention is to obviate the need to purchase, maintain and store a large number of decorative containers suitable for a wide range of individuals, locations, occasions or contents.
It is a further objective of this invention to provide decorative containers with patterns and/or colors to complement the area of the home or environment where the item is placed.
It is another objective of the invention to provide decorative containers which display sayings or greetings such as “Happy Birthday”, “Merry Christmas”, or other similar holiday or occasional messages.
It is another objective of the invention to provide decorative containers which display advertising or marketing messages or images.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide decorative containers which display art or photographs.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide decorative containers which are easily maintained and transformed to provide a dynamic environment.
It is another objective to provide a means of coordinating the appearance of decorative containers to match other materials such as table linens and place settings for events such as weddings and parties.
It is a further objective of the invention to assist in the organization and arrangement of stemmed flowers placed in a vase or other decorative container.
It is a further objective to extend the life of such flowers by protecting the stems and water from UV radiation.
It is also an objective of the invention to obscure unattractive floral foam or floral arranging materials inserted into the bottom of vases or other decorative containers used for the organization of flowers.
It is an objective of the invention to provide improved decorative containers for the purposes described which are inexpensive, dependable, convenient and aesthetically pleasing in their application.
In certain embodiments the present invention accomplishes these objectives by providing a decorative cover and/or a plurality of different decorative covers which can be fitted onto containers in order to change the outward appearance of the container in a manner which is suitable for a particular person, location, occasion or contents.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the drawings and detailed description which follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a view of a component of a decorative cover.

FIG. 1B is a view of an assembled decorative cover made with the component of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the cover of FIG. 1B installed over a vase according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1D is a sectional view of the vase and cover of FIG. 1C.

FIG. 2A is a view of a component of a decorative cover.

FIG. 2B is a view of another component of a decorative cover.

FIG. 2C is a view of an assembled decorative cover made with the components of FIGS. 2A and 2B according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2D is a partial sectional view of the cover of FIG. 2C installed over a vase according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2E is a partial sectional view of the cover of FIG. 2C installed over a pint glass according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2F is a partial sectional view of the cover of FIG. 2C installed over a terracotta pot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a view of an alternative grid/mesh component used with a sheet component for making a cover according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3B is a view of another alternative grid/mesh component used with a sheet component for making a cover according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 shows a view of a kit comprised of a vase and a plurality of decorative covers according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Common reference numerals are used to indicate like elements throughout the drawings and detailed description. Reference numerals used in a drawing may or may not be referenced in the detailed description specific to such drawing if the associated element is described elsewhere. The first digit in reference numeral indicates the series of figures in which the referenced item first appears.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention provides decorative covers which are fitted onto containers in order to change the outward appearance of the container. In some embodiments the present invention provides a plurality of decorative covers suitable for changing the outward appearance of a range of containers in a manner suitable for a particular person, location, occasion or contents. In some embodiments, the present invention makes available a wide range of decorative containers while obviating the need to purchase, keep and store a wide variety of decorative containers suitable for a particular person, location, occasion or contents.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers with patterns and/or color to complement the area of the home or environment where the item is placed.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which display sayings or greetings such as “Happy Birthday”, “Congratulations”, “Merry Christmas”, or other similar holiday or occasional messages.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which display advertising or marketing messages.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which display art or photographs.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which are easily maintained and transformed to provide a dynamic environment.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which coordinate to match other materials such as table linens and place settings.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which assist in the organization and arrangement of flowers and stems placed in a vase or other decorative container
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers, which seek to extend the life of such flowers by protecting the stems and water from UV radiation.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which obscure unattractive floral foam inserted into the bottom of vases or other decorative containers for organization of arranged flowers.
In some embodiments the present invention provides decorative covers and/or decorative containers which are inexpensive, dependable, convenient and aesthetically pleasing in their application.
In some embodiments the present invention provides a stretchable cover for containers including, for example, vases, glasses, pots and similar decorative items. It is intended that such a cover be decorative and attractive, complementing the item. The cover is designed such that the cover reveals the shape of the object, while the outward appearance presented by the cover evokes a new impression, and so adds to the decor of the environment. The container is, for example, a vase of any shape or size composed of any material where the interior is used as a receptacle and the exterior is unadorned or adorned in a manner which is desired to be changed. The covers may also be provided in kits having a plurality of covers grouped in collections or variety packs composed of different designs.
In some embodiments the present invention provides a fitted cover for vases and other containers comprised of an elastic sheet of material crafted into, or knitted into a tube. The ends may be left unfinished, finished by sewing or gluing, or heat-treated to reduce fraying. The material may be of any color, pattern, texture or fiber. Additional material may be attached to the exterior of the shape to provide decoration and dimensionality. The cover may be designed and configured to accommodate various sizes and shapes of vessels. One end of the cover can be fitted with a mesh/grid to aid in the arrangement of flowers, similar to the creation of a tape grid attached to a vase by a floral arranger. The fitted cover can be supplied alone or as a kit including a vase and/or other fitted covers.
In some embodiments, the decorative cover is a tube of fabric. Fabric has inherent aesthetic features of color, shadow and form, which can supplement items that it covers, creating a different appeal. Hence, a vase or other container, which has its own connotations, can be transformed by covering it with fabric having desirable aesthetic features of color, shadow and form. The fabric is selected to beautify the covered container and alternatively direct, remind, and instruct the onlooker through the appropriate choice of design and color. Furthermore, when applied to a transparent or translucent container the fabric additionally serves the purpose of obscuring the effects of decay upon plant stems, or the use of floral arranging devices such as floral foam, protecting the container so covered. Additionally the cover, when applied to a transparent or translucent container serves to protect the floral stems from the harmful effects of light, and/or infrared or UV exposure thereby increasing the longevity of the flowers or other stems. Additionally, the fabric also serves the utilitarian purpose of protecting the item covered with the fabric. Maintenance is accomplished by removing the cover and washing it by hand or in a washing machine.
In some embodiments, the decorative cover is made of a tube of stretchable fabric. The fabric is selected from a wide variety of materials, and come in any color or pattern. The fabric has an appearance consisting of colors, patterns, text, and textures. The fabric is, in some embodiments, decorated with words or phrases in addition to colors and patterns. In some embodiments, the fabric is customized by the addition of words and phrases requested by a customer. For example, selected words and phrases are in some embodiments embroidered, transferred and/or printed onto the fabric in response to the needs of a customer. Decorative trim can also be added to complement the decor.
In some embodiments, the decorative cover is made from a sheet of the stretchable fabric which is manufactured into a tube. A cutting device is used to cut the fabric into the roughly square shape based on the desired specifications. The sheet is fastened to itself along opposite sides to create a tube having a central lumen and an opening at each end. The tube of stretchable material thereby created has a continuous edge at each end, creating an opening at each end. The sheet can be fastened to itself along the side seam by one or more means of stitching, gluing, fusing, welding and/or other methods of securing fabric to fabric. In a preferred embodiment, the side seam is finished with a four-thread overlock stitch performed using a serger. This creates the tube shape and can also allow a label to be secured inside the lumen of the tube. The fabric is, in some embodiments, finished, bound and/or hemmed at one or both ends of the tube so as to prevent fraying. In a preferred embodiment, the ends are finished with a wide-needle coverstitch to allow for stretching of the ends of the tube during use. Alternatively, a non-fraying fabric is used or the edges of the fabric are treated to prevent fraying by chemical or heat treatment.
In alternative embodiments, the decorative cover is made from a stretchable fabric which is knitted in the form of a tube. The fabric may be manufactured in a continuous tube shape of a desired circumference in the same manner as the production of socks, stockings and other hosiery. The tube is then cut to sections of the desired length. The tube of stretchable material thereby created has a continuous edge at each end creating an opening at each end. The fabric is, in some embodiments, finished, bound and/or hemmed at one or both ends of the tube so as to prevent fraying. Alternatively, a non fraying fabric is used or the edges of the fabric are treated to prevent fraying by chemical or heat treatment.
In some embodiments, the fabric and the dimensions of the sheet/tube are selected so that the tube, when stretched over the container, conforms to the surface of the container without the need for fasteners. The tube, when unstretched, is typically smaller in one or more dimensions than the container which it is intended to cover. For example, the tube is in some cases, when unstretched, longer than the height of the container but smaller in circumference than the container. The tube is alternatively, when unstretched, shorter than the height of the container and smaller in circumference than the container. In some embodiments the fabric sheet, prior to being joined into a tube has the following dimensions: 6″×6″, 6″×7″, 7″×7″, 7″×8″, 8″×8″, 8″×9″, 9″×9″, 9″×10″, 10″×10″, 10″×11″, 11″×11″, 11″×12″, 12″×12″, 12″×13″, 13″×13.″ In a preferred embodiment the fabric sheet is approximately 10″×10.″
In one embodiment, the tube may be provided with a grid/mesh sewn, glued or heat sealed into one end of the tube. The grid/mesh may be translucent and may be made from a fabric or polymer sheet having elastic qualities. The grid/mesh has a plurality of apertures therethrough. The apertures are configured to allow the stems of flowers or other objects to be placed therethrough. The grid/mesh serves to support the stems/objects thereby facilitating the arrangement of flowers/objects. The apertures may be provided in an open configuration. Alternatively, the grid/mesh may be perforated to allow the apertures to be selectively opened by pushing a stem/object through a perforated region of the grid/mesh.
The grid/mesh may be sized to fit the opening of a container. The grid/mesh may alternatively be stretchable to adjustably fit a range of containers. In some embodiments, the grid/mesh is circular in shape with a diameter of about 1″, 2″, 3″, 4″, 5″, 6″, 7″, 8″, 9″, 10″, 11″, 12″ or more. Preferably the size of the grid/mesh is selected to be approximately the same as or slightly less than the diameter of the opening in the container to be covered. The grid/mesh has a plurality of apertures that are square, rectangular or triangular shapes. The dimensions of each aperture are selected so as to admit the passage of stems desired to be arranged in a container desired to be covered. In some embodiments the dimension of the apertures may be ¼″, ⅜″, ½″, ⅝″, ¾″, 1″. 1⅛″, 1¼″, 1⅜″, 1½″, 1⅝″, 1¾″, 2″, 2⅛″, 2¼″, 2⅜″, 2½″, 2⅝″, 2¾″, 3″. Moreover, the apertures may be all of the same size or in several different sizes so as to be suitable for different diameter stems. In a preferred embodiment, the apertures are squares approximately ½″ by ½″.
Particular aspects and features of the present invention will now be described with reference to the Figures. FIGS. 1A to 1D are views of a cover without a grid/mesh. FIGS. 2C to 2D are views of a cover with a mesh. FIG. 2E shows the cover installed over a pint glass. FIG. 2F shows the cover installed over a terra cotta pot. FIGS. 3A and 3B show alternate grid/mesh designs. FIG. 4 shows a kit comprising a vase and a plurality of covers of different design.
Referring now to FIGS. 1A to 1D which show views of a cover without a grid/mesh according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A shows a component of a decorative cover. FIG. 1B shows the assembled decorative cover. FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the cover installed over a vase. And FIG. 1D is a sectional view of the vase and cover. Referring first to FIG. 1A, which shows a sheet 100 suitable for manufacturing a decorative component. Sheet 100 is made of stretchable fabric. Sheet 100 is substantially rectangular and/or square. The dimensions of sheet 100 are selected so as to create a tube appropriate for a vase/container. In a preferred embodiment, the sides of the sheet are each approximately 10″ long thereby providing a decorative cover suitable for a wide range of common containers. Sheets of different sizes may be used to create covers suitable for larger or smaller containers.
Sheet 100 has four edges 102, 104, 106, 108 with edges 102, 104 being opposite from edges 106, 108 respectively. A corner 110 of sheet 100 is pulled over to show that sheet 100 has a first side 112 and a second side 114. One side of sheet 100 is a decorative face 112, which is provided with a desired color, design, pattern, or message. The other side of sheet 100 is reverse face 114. Reverse face 114 in most cases, need not be provided with any color, design, pattern or message although the color, design, pattern or message may show though from the decorative face 112. However in alternative embodiments, reverse face 114 may also be provided with a desired color, design, pattern or message which can be the same as or different from the color, design, pattern or message provided on the decorative face 112 thus providing a cover that is reversible.
Referring now to FIG. 1B which shows an assembled cover 120. As shown in FIG. 1B, edge 102 of sheet 100 has been secured to edge 106 of sheet 100 to form a side seam 122. In a preferred embodiment, the side seam is finished with a four-thread overlock stitch performed using a serger. The side seam 122 forms sheet 100 into tube-shaped cover 120. Cover 120 has a first opening 124 defined by edge 104 of sheet 100. Cover 120 has a second opening 128 defined by edge 108 of sheet 100. Cover 120 has an internal lumen 130 connecting openings 124 and 128 and surrounded by sheet 100. The decorative face 112 is on the outside of cover 120 and the reverse face 114 is on the inside of lumen 130. If there is excess material of side seam 122 it is preferably on the inside of lumen 130. Each of edges 104 and 108 is finished with a wide-needle coverstitch to prevent fraying while allowing for stretching of the ends of the tube during use. In alternative embodiments, one or more of the edges is sewn, glued, bound or heat-sealed to prevent fraying.
Referring now to FIGS. 1C and 1D which show a covered vase 140 which includes cover 120, installed over a vase 142. FIG. 1C shows a perspective view of covered vase 140 and FIG. 1D shows a sectional view. To install cover 120, it is pulled over the vase 142. The vase may be used for live cut flowers or plants, or synthetic flowers or plants. As shown in FIG. 1C, cover 120 conforms to the shape of the vase 142. Cover 120 also entirely obscures the exterior of vase 142 (exterior not shown). The covered vase 140 presents as its external appearance the decorative face 112 of cover 120. Edge 104 may overlap somewhat the opening of vase 142. Edge 108 may overlap somewhat the bottom of vase 142.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A to 2D which show views of a decorative cover 220 having a grid/mesh according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2A shows a fabric component of the decorative cover 220. FIG. 2B shows a mesh/grid component of the decorative cover 220. FIG. 2C shows the assembled decorative cover 220. FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the cover 220 installed over a vase 242. Referring first to FIG. 2A, which shows a sheet 200 suitable for manufacturing a decorative cover. Sheet 200 is made of stretchable fabric. Sheet 200 is substantially rectangular and/or square. Sheet 200 has four edges 202, 204, 206, 208 with edges 202 and 204 being opposite from edges 206 and 208 respectively. The dimensions of sheet 200 are selected so as to create a tube appropriate for a container such as a vase.
A corner 210 of sheet 200 is pulled over to show that sheet 200 has a decorative face 212 and a reverse face 214. Decorative face 212 on one side of sheet 200 is provided with a desired color, design, pattern or message. The other side of sheet 200 is reverse face 214. Reverse face 214, in most cases, need not be provided with any color, design, pattern or message although the color, design, pattern or message may show though from the decorative face 212. However in alternative embodiments, reverse face 214 may also be provided with a desired color, design, pattern or message which can be the same as or different from the color, design, pattern or message provided on the decorative face 212 thus providing a reversible cover.
Referring now to FIG. 2B which shows a grid/mesh component 250 of the decorative cover 220. Grid/mesh 250 is circular in shape and has a diameter selected to be the same as, or slightly less than the diameter of the opening of a container to be covered. Additionally, the circumference 254 of grid/mesh 250 should be approximately the same as the length of edge 208 of sheet 200 to which grid/mesh 250 is to be secured. As, shown in FIG. 2B, grid/mesh 250 has a plurality of apertures through which the stems of cut flowers may be placed. Apertures 250 may be created by making holes in an otherwise solid fabric, forming a fabric which has holes therein, and/or creating a grid of linear pieces of fabric secured to one another in a fashion that leaves apertures there through. Apertures 252 may also be provide by the spaces between linear elements fastened together in the form of a grid as shown, for example, in FIGS. 3A and 3B.
Referring now to FIG. 2C which shows an assembled decorative cover 220. As shown in FIG. 2C, edge 202 of sheet 200 is secured to edge 206 of sheet 200 to form a side seam 222. In a preferred embodiment, the side seam is finished with a four-thread overlock stitch performed using a serger. The side seam 222 forms sheet 200 into a tube. Grid/mesh 250 is secured to one end of the tube. In this embodiment, for example, edge 204 of sheet 200 has been sewn to the perimeter of grid/mesh at an end seam 224.
Decorative cover 220 has a bottom opening 218 defined by edge 208 of sheet 200. Decorative cover 220 has an internal lumen 230 extending from opening 218 towards grid/mesh 250 and surrounded by sheet 200. The decorative face 212 is on the outside of cover 220 and the reverse face 214 is on the inside of lumen 230. If there is excess material of seams 218, 222 and 224 it is preferably on the inside of lumen 230. Edge 208 and/or the remaining edges are sewn, glued, bound or heat-sealed to prevent fraying. In a preferred embodiment, edge 208 is finished with a wide-needle coverstitch to prevent fraying while allowing for stretching of the open end of decorative cover 220.
Referring now to FIG. 2D, which shows a partial cutaway perspective view of a covered vase 240, which includes cover 220 installed over a vase 242. To install cover 220, opening 218 is pulled over the vase 242. The vase may be used for live cut flowers or plants, or synthetic flowers or plants. As shown in FIG. 2D, cover 220 conforms to the shape of the vase 242. Cover 220 also entirely obscures the exterior of vase 242 (exterior not shown). The covered vase 240 presents its external appearance through the decorative face 212 of cover 220. Edge 204 may overlap somewhat the opening of vase 242. Edge 218 may overlap somewhat the bottom of vase 242. Grid/mesh 250 is positioned over the mouth of vase 242 such that, for example, the stems cut flowers may be placed through the apertures 252 of the grid/mesh 250 into the interior of vase 242.
To demonstrate the versatility of decorative covers according to the present invention, FIGS. 2E and 2F show decorative cover 220 installed on alternative containers. Decorative cover 120 can also be installed in a similar fashion. Referring first to FIG. 2E which shows a partial cutaway perspective view of a covered pint glass 260 which includes cover 220 installed over a pint glass 262. To install cover 220, opening 218 (not shown) is pulled over the pint glass 262. As shown in FIG. 2E, cover 220 conforms to the shape of the pint glass 262. Decorative cover 220 also entirely obscures the exterior of pint glass 262 (exterior not shown). The covered pint glass 260 presents as its external appearance the decorative face 212 of cover 220. Edge 204 overlaps somewhat the opening of pint glass 262. Edge 218 may overlap somewhat the bottom of pint glass 262. Grid/mesh 250 is positioned over the mouth of pint glass 262 such that, for example, the stems cut flowers may be placed through the apertures 252 of the grid/mesh 250 into the interior of pint glass 262. The overlap of edge 218 and the presence of grid/mesh 250 makes covered pint glass 260 more suitable for the arrangement of flowers by, for example, reducing the size of the opening compared to pint glass 262 alone.
FIG. 2F shows a partial cutaway perspective view of a covered pot 270 which includes cover 220 installed over a terracotta pot 272. To install cover 220, opening 218 (not shown) is pulled over the terracotta pot 272. As shown in FIG. 2F, cover 220 conforms to the shape of the terracotta pot 272. Decorative cover 220 also entirely obscures the exterior of terracotta pot 272 (exterior not shown). The covered pot 270 presents as its external appearance the decorative face 212 of cover 220. Edge 204 overlaps somewhat the opening of terracotta pot 272. Edge 218 may overlap somewhat the bottom of terracotta pot 272. Grid/mesh 250 is positioned over the mouth of terracotta pot 272 such that, for example, the stems of the cut flowers may be placed through the apertures 252 of the grid/mesh 250 into the interior of terracotta pot 272. The overlap of edge 218 and the presence of grid/mesh 250 makes covered pot more suitable for the arrangement of flowers by, for example, reducing the size of the opening compared to terracotta pot 272 alone.
FIG. 3A shows an alternate grid/mesh 350 a for use in a decorative cover according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3A, grid/mesh 350 a is formed of a first plurality 352 a of strips of material 354 a interwoven with a second plurality 356 a of strips of material 358 a. The strips 354 a and 358 a are sewn to each other to form a stable grid prior to sewing the finished grid/mesh 350 a to a tubular cover. The finished grid/mesh 350 a should be slightly larger in size than the unstretched circumference of the tube to which it is designed to be sewn—see e.g. line 362 a. In a preferred embodiment, strips 354 a, 358 a of material are made of ⅛″, ¼″ or ⅜″ width Clear LASTIN® Elastic which is a stretchable, strong ribbon used in swimwear. The gaps between the strips 354 a, 358 a define apertures 360 a through which stems or similar objects may be placed. Grid-mesh 350 a is adapted to be secured to the end of a tube for example in place of grid/mesh 250 of FIGS. 2B-2D.
FIG. 3B shows an alternate grid/mesh 350 b for use in a decorative cover according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3B, grid/mesh 350 b is formed of a first plurality 352 b of strips of material 354 b interwoven with a second plurality 356 b of strips of material 358 b. The strips 354 b and 358 b are sewn to each other to form a stable grid prior to sewing the finished grid/mesh 350 b to a tubular cover. The finished grid/mesh 350 b should be slightly larger in size than the unstretched circumference of the tube to which it is designed to be sewn—see e.g. line 362 b. In a preferred embodiment, strips 354 b, 358 b of material are made of ⅛″, ¼″ or ⅜″ width of a clear synthetic elastomer. The gaps between the strips 354 b, 358 b define apertures 360 b through which stems or similar objects may be placed. Grid-mesh 350 b is adapted to be secured to the end of a tube for example in place of grid/mesh 250 of FIGS. 2B-2D.
FIG. 4 shows a vase kit 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Vase kit 400 includes a vase 410 and a plurality of different decorative covers 420, 430, 440, 450. Each decorative cover may be provided with a different decorative surface 422, 432, 442, 452. As shown in FIG. 4, vase kit 400 includes a plurality of decorative covers 430, 440 having a grid/ mesh 434, 444. As shown in FIG. 4, vase kit 400 also includes a plurality of decorative covers 420, 450 without a grid/mesh. Additionally, one or more decorative covers may include a text message 454, for example “Happy Birthday” or “Congratulations.” In combination, vase kit 400 allows vase 410 to be provided with a plurality of different appearances suitable for different locations and/or occasions. Moreover, Vase kit 400 can be provided at lower cost and takes up less space than four separate vases. Moreover, decorative covers 420, 430, 440, 450 may be readily cleaned when dirty. Additionally, the decorative covers may be used with other vases of a similar size as 410.

Materials

The fabric of the decorative cover is selected to achieve the desired functional and aesthetic characteristics. The fabric for the cover is stretchable and having a pleasing aesthetic appearance. The fabric for the cover can have a two-way stretch or a four-way stretch. The fabric may be composed of one or more synthetic polymers and/or one or more natural materials. The fabric may be knit, woven, meshed, felted, braided, crocheted, knotted or tatted using any single component, fiber or multi-fiber blend. In preferred embodiments, the fabric is a synthetic blend made of knit polyester and from 1-10% lycra/spandex. Suitable material can be readily obtained from fabric wholesalers and manufacturers which specialize in swimwear and dancewear because these materials are very form fitting. The fabric is selected based upon the desired color and/or pattern and also the desired stretch characteristics.
In embodiments, the material may contain acrylic, alpaca, aluminum, angora, aramid, bamboo, brass, camel, cashmere, copper, cotton, flax, grass, hemp, hemp, jute, koskin, leather, leatherette, linen, lyocell, modal, mohair, nylon, olefin, organic cotton, para-aramid, patent leather, polyamide, polyester, polylactide, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, rayon, rubber, rush, silk, sisal, spandex, squirrel, stainless steel, suede, synthetic leather, vinyl, viscose and/or wool. Suitable materials include, for example, fabrics sold under the trademarks REXINE®, KYDEX®, LORICA®, LUREX®, LYCRA®, TENCEL®, TWARON®, and/or TYVEK®.
The material of the mesh is selected to achieve the desired functional and aesthetic characteristics. The material selected for the mesh can be stretchable or substantially non-stretchable. The material may be made from one or more synthetic polymers and/or one or more natural materials. In a preferred embodiment, the mesh/grid is an arrangement of strips of clear elastic sewn into a grid pattern defining a plurality of apertures. Clear elastic can be made from a variety of elastomers. One suitable material for manufacturing this grid is Clear LASTIN® Elastic which is a very stretchy, strong ribbon used in swimwear, lingerie, bed sheets, women's wear and infant wear. In alternative embodiments the mesh is composed of acrylic, alpaca, aluminum, angora, aramid, bamboo, brass, camel, cashmere, copper, cotton, elastic, flax, grass, hemp, hemp, jute, koskin, leather, leatherette, linen, lyocell, modal, mohair, nylon, olefin, organic cotton, para-aramid, patent leather, polyamide, polyester, polylactide, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, rayon, rubber, rush, silk, sisal, spandex, squirrel, stainless steel, suede, synthetic leather, vinyl, viscose or wool. Suitable materials include, for example, fabrics sold under the trademarks LASTIN® REXINE®, KYDEX®, LORICA®, LUREX®, LYCRA®, TENCEL®, TWARON®, and/or TYVEK®.
The foregoing description of preferred embodiments of the present invention has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. The figures represent only some examples of vase and pot shapes and covers of the present invention, and are not meant to exhaust the list of designs that may possibly be used in conjunction with the present invention. The illustrated embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. The illustrated embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with various modifications that are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A decorative cover adapted for application to a container wherein the decorative cover comprises:

a tube comprising a sheet of fabric smaller in surface area than an exterior surface of the container;

the tube having a first opening and a second opening;

the sheet of fabric presenting a decorative face exterior to said tube;

the sheet of fabric being sufficiently stretchable to cover the exterior surface of the container and cling and conform to the container contour without fasteners; and

whereby the decorative cover is adapted to be stretched over the exterior surface of a container and thereby present the decorative face of the fabric in place of the exterior surface of the container.

2. The decorative cover of claim 1, further comprising a grid/mesh secured over the first opening or the second opening wherein the grid/mesh defines a plurality of apertures.

3. The decorative cover of claim 1, wherein said decorative face of the fabric provides an aesthetic appearance selected from the group consisting of colors, patterns, and textures.

4. The decorative cover of claim 1, wherein said decorative face of the fabric provides an aesthetic appearance including a text message.

5. The decorative cover of claim 1, wherein said decorative face of the fabric provides an aesthetic appearance including an advertisement.

6. The decorative cover of claim 1, in combination with the container.

7. A decorative container comprising:

a container having an exterior surface;

a first decorative cover adapted for application to the container;

the first decorative cover comprising a tube the tube having a first opening and a second opening;

the tube comprising a sheet of fabric smaller in surface area than the exterior surface of the container, the sheet of fabric presenting a first decorative face exterior to said tube;

the tube of fabric being removably stretched over the exterior surface of the container such that the tube of fabric conforms to the container without fasteners; and

whereby the first decorative cover presents the first decorative face of the fabric in place of the exterior surface of the container.

8. The decorative container of claim 7, wherein the container is a vase.

9. The decorative container of claim 7, further comprising a grid secured over one of the first opening and the second opening wherein the grid defines a plurality of apertures communicating with an interior volume of the container.

10. The decorative container of claim 7, wherein said decorative face of the fabric provides an aesthetic appearance selected from the group consisting of colors, patterns, and textures.

11. The decorative container of claim 7, wherein said decorative face of the fabric provides an aesthetic appearance including a text message.

12. The decorative container of claim 7, wherein said decorative face of the fabric provides an aesthetic appearance including an advertisement.

13. The decorative container of claim 7, in combination with a second decorative cover having a second decorative face different than the first decorative face, the second decorative cover being adapted to replace the first decorative cover such that the second decorative cover presents the second decorative face in place of the exterior surface of the container.

14. The decorative container of claim 7, in combination with a plurality of decorative covers each having a decorative face different than the first decorative face, each of the plurality of decorative covers being adapted to replace the first decorative cover such that a decorative face different than the first decorative face is presented in place of the exterior surface of the container.

15. A decorative container kit comprising:

a container having an exterior surface;

a plurality of decorative covers adapted for application to the container;

each of the plurality of decorative covers comprising a tube, each tube having a first opening and a second opening;

each tube comprising a sheet of fabric smaller in surface area than the exterior surface of the container, each sheet of fabric presenting a decorative face exterior to said tube,

each of the plurality of decorative covers having a decorative face different from each other decorative face of each other of the decorative covers;

each tube of fabric being adapted to be removably stretched over the exterior surface of the container such that the tube of fabric conforms to the container without fasteners; and

whereby each of the plurality of decorative covers is adapted to present a different decorative face in place of the exterior surface of the container.

16. The decorative container kit of claim 15, wherein one or more of the decorative covers further comprises a grid secured over one of the first opening and the second opening wherein the grid defines a plurality of apertures adapted to communicate with an interior volume of the container.

17. The decorative container kit of claim 15, wherein the container is a vase.