WO2006084099A2

WO2006084099A2 - Slipcover with integrated padded and decorative component

Info

Publication number: WO2006084099A2
Application number: PCT/US2006/003785
Authority: WO
Inventors: Paula S. Neustat
Original assignee: Neustat Paula S
Priority date: 2005-02-04
Filing date: 2006-02-02
Publication date: 2006-08-10
Also published as: US20060175883A1; WO2006084099A3

Abstract

A slipcover includes a fitted, semi-fitted or unfitted sheet of fabric and a decorative and padded multi-layered component integrated with the sheet of fabric in selected locations. The multi-layered component includes a cushion material and at least a top layer of material. The multi-layered component of fabric and cushion material is tufted, quilted, or assembled such that the layers are secured in position to provide an aesthetic quality to the slipcover. The multi-layered component and the sheet of fabric are integrated either by attachment, or by replacement or substitution of portions of the sheet of fabric with the multi-layered component. The multi-layered component can also be removable.

Description

SLIPCOVER WITH INTEGRATED PADDED AND DECORATIVE COMPONENT

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of furniture covers and in particular to a new and useful slipcover construction having a decorative and padded component in selected locations . [0002] There are several kinds of slipcovers . Fitted slipcovers are used for covering a specific type of furniture with a specific shape , style , and size . Fitted slipcovers are constructed to fit the dimensions of the specific shape, size and style of the furniture to be covered. For example, for a fitted slipcover for a sofa, there are often multiple , separate parts including covers for separate seat cushions and/or back cushions sized to fit the specific cushion, frequently using a zipper closure to neatly enclose the cushion . [0003] Semi-fitted slipcovers fit specific types of furniture (e . g . , a sofa, a chair, an oversized chair, or a love seat , etc . ) having a range of shapes , sizes , styles . [0004] Semi-fitted slipcovers are typically a one- piece unit that can be made of a variety of fabrics and materials as described in U. S . Patent 5 , 664 , 832 and U . S . Patent 6 , 796 , 609. U. S . Patent 5 , 733 , 002 discloses an alternative two-piece slipcover having a shell and a lower skirt . In some cases , semi-fitted slipcovers can have multiple separate parts . For example , a semi- fitted slipcover for a sofa can have separate cushion covers like the fitted slipcover . However, unlike the fitted slipcover, the construction of the semi-fitted cover for a sofa cushion fits more than one specific cushion size .

[0005] Semi- fitted slipcovers are loosely structured and oversized so that they can be adjusted to fit the contours of the particular furniture to be covered .

Semi-fitted slipcovers for sofas are typically adjusted by tucking in extra fabric in certain locations such as between the seats and arms or seats and seat backs as disclosed in U. S . Patent 5 , 664 , 831 , U. S . Patent 5 , 664 , 832 , U. S . Patent 6 , 485 , 099 , and U. S . Patent

6 , 796 , 609. Thus , semi-fitted slipcovers are structured to some degree in that they correspond to the contours of the furniture which they cover, but are sufficiently unstructured due to their dimensionless or bag-like portions .

[0006] Semi- fitted slipcovers are often formed from the sewing of multiple cloth pieces or panels . Elastics or sewing are sometimes used to provide structure to certain areas of a semi-fitted slipcover, as disclosed in U. S . Patent 5 , 549 , 355. Structure is sometimes given to the arm portion of the semi-fitted slipcover which will be placed over the arms of the furniture , while the remainder of the semi-fitted slipcover is mostly unstructured .

[0007] One type of unfitted slipcover is known as a throw. This type of cover has minimal sewing or a complete lack of sewing . U. S . Patent 4 , 838 , 610 , U. S . Patent 5 , 320 , 407 , and 5 , 547 , 249 discuss the drawbacks of furniture throws in the background section, and are incorporated here by reference . As explained in U. S . Patent 5 , 547 , 249 , after a throw cover has been loosely placed on a sofa, the user will hand tuck the fabric cover into the spaces between the seat cushion and the back and between the seat cushion and the arms at each side of the seating perimeter . [0008] Fig . 1 shows a sofa covered by a slipcover 10 of the prior art . The slipcover 10 includes a back portion 12 which covers the front , back, and sides of the back of the furniture , a seat portion 14 which covers the top and front surfaces of the seating area of the furniture , a pair of arm portions 16 for covering the arms of the furniture , and a lower skirt portion 18. The slipcover 10 is made of one sheet or layer of fabric and lacks any decorative or cushion features . The slipcover 10 is a one-piece unit that includes a skirt near the bottom of the furniture . Multiple panels of fabric , having the same or different fabric , that can be sewn together to form the one fabric sheet or one-piece unit .

[0009] Although some structure is provided in semi- fitted slipcovers , it can still be very difficult for the consumer to determine which parts of the slipcover should cover which parts of furniture due to the large size and unstructured or baggy areas of such slipcovers . Selectively providing a frame of reference for the arm, seat , and seatback portions of the slipcover without sewing slipcover portions into a particular shape of furniture portions or using elastic to define these portions would be very useful . [0010] Also, a single layer of fabric used as a slipcover is not likely to be any more comfortable than the seat cushion it covers . Furniture cushions can be lumpy or uneven. Thus , there is a need for providing additional comfort to selected portions of a slipcover and smoothing out or hiding uneven or damaged landscapes of furniture while simultaneously protecting the underlying furniture .

[0011] Semi-fitted slipcovers also have the problem that excess fabric, which is initially tucked into the crevices of furniture , tends to become displaced and accumulates in an irregular or lumpy pattern outside of the crevices , and particularly near the center of the seat area of the furniture . The consumer of such slipcovers has to continuously pull and tuck the seat and back areas to give the slipcover a smooth appearance over the seat area . There is need for eliminating such constant maintenance requirements . [0012] A traditional problem with slipcovers is that they become easily disheveled with use . This problem can be most evident with leather furniture which is smooth and slippery. Thus , there is a need for stopping movement of slipcovers .

[0013] A high percentage of slipcover consumers have children or are pet owners . These consumers have an obvious motivation for protecting their furniture since water or other types of liquids are often spilled or left on furniture in such families . As a result of the commonality of this problem in such situations , there is a clear need for a slipcover that is at least in selected areas water-resistant .

[0014] Slipcovers are typically made of one layer of fabric . As a natural result , such slipcovers take the shape of the underlying furniture that they cover . There is a need for slipcovers which can reshape or change the contours of the furniture that they cover . [0015] Finally, there is a need for more intricate slipcovers having an aesthetic quality that surpasses mere colored decoration.

[0016] Many slipcover consumers have attempted to solve the above-identified problems by using various separate household obj ects and materials . This is burdensome to the consumer and has caused an exceptionally high product return rate to the retailer or manufacturer in the semi-fitted slipcover category as compared to other product categories in the home furnishings industry. If the consumer keeps the product , it often results in the consumer enduring a less than satisfactory product .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] It is an object of the present invention to provide a slipcover with a frame of reference at selected portions of the cover so that the slipcover can be installed with ease .

[0018] It is another obj ect of the present invention to provide cushioning to only selected areas of a slipcover for providing a comfortable seat surface , for example , and for smoothing out and/or reshaping or redefining the landscape or contour of the seating area . [0019] It is a further obj ect of the present invention to provide aesthetic qualities to a slipcover which surpasses mere colored decoration . [0020] It is yet another obj ect of the present invention to provide a protective cover for furniture which is waterproof and remains substantially in position even after people sit on the cover . [0021] Accordingly, a slipcover is provided which comprises a fitted, semi-fitted or unfitted sheet of fabric and a decorative and padded multi-layered component selectively integrated with the sheet of fabric in selected locations . The multi-layered component comprises a cushion material and at least one additional layer covering the cushion material . The multi-layered component of fabric and cushion material is tufted, quilted, or assembled in some other manner to secure the component layers in their relative positions while providing an aesthetic quality to the slipcover . [0022] The multi-layered component and the sheet of fabric are integrated either by attachment , or by replacement or substitution of portions of the sheet of fabric with the multi-layered component . Integration is achieved by seam means such as gluing, sewing, heat fusing, etc . , or detachable fasteners such as zippers , hook and loop fasteners , snaps , buttons , and ties , or the like .

[0023] Finally, the bottom of the sheet of fabric includes means for preventing slipping of the slipcover . The multi-layered component also includes means for preventing slipping if it is substituted for portions of the sheet of fabric in selected locations . The fitted, semi-fitted or unfitted sheet of fabric , the multi-layered component , or the entire slipcover are also preferably made of fabric that is water- resistant or waterproof , or may be chemically treated so as to be water resistant or waterproof . [0024] The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure . For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific obj ects attained by its uses , reference is made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] In the drawings :

[0026] Fig . 1 is a perspective view of a slipcover of the prior art with the remaining figures all showing aspects of the present invention; [0027] Fig . 2 is a perspective fragmented view of an embodiment of the invention showing a sofa and a fitted, semi-fitted or unfitted slipcover with a decorative and padded multi-layered component integrated in only the seat area of the slipcover; [0028] Fig . 3 is a perspective view of the slipcover of the invention with a multi-layered component integrated in only the arm area of the slipcover; [0029] Fig . 4 is a perspective view of the slipcover of the invention with a multi-layered component integrated in only the back area of the slipcover; [0030] Fig . 5 is a perspective view of the slipcover of the invention with a multi-layered component integrated in only the arm and seat areas of the slipcover; [0031] Fig . 6 is a perspective view of the slipcover of the invention with a multi-layered component integrated in only the seat and back areas of the slipcover;

[0032] Fig . 7 is a perspective view of the slipcover of the invention with a multi-layered component integrated in only the seat , back, and arm areas of the slipcover;

[0033 ] Fig . 8 is a perspective view of an untucked semi-fitted slipcover of the invention with a multi-layered component integrated in only the the seat , back, and arm areas of the slipcover;

[0034] Fig . 9A is a sectional view of a part of the multi-layered component of the present invention;

[0035] Fig . 9B is a fragmentary view similar to Fig . 9A of another embodiment of the invention;

[0036] Fig . 1OA is an exploded view of the multi - layered component of the invention attached to the top surface of a slipcover fabric sheet ;

[0037] Fig . 1OB is an exploded view of the assembly of Fig . 1OA further including a bottom fabric layer for the multi-layered component ;

[0038] Fig . 11 is an exploded view of the multi- layered component of the invention replacing a portion of the fabric sheet of the slipcover; [0039] Fig . 12A is a segmented perspective view of the multi-layered component attached to a fabric sheet via edges ; [0040] Fig . 12B is an exploded view of the multi - layered component attached to the top surface of the fabric sheet via edges ,-

[0041] Fig . 12C is an exploded view of the multi - layered component replacing a portion of the fabric sheet by attachment via edges ;

[0042] Fig . 13A is a segmented perspective view of the multi-layered component with edges attached to a fabric sheet via a point at the base of the component ; [0043] Fig . 13B is an exploded view of the multi - layered component with edges attached to the top surface of the fabric sheet via a point at the base of the component ;

[0044] Fig . 13C is an exploded view of the multi - layered component with edges replacing a portion of the fabric sheet by attachment via a point at the base of the component ;

[0045] Fig . 14A is a segmented perspective view of the multi-layered component having a gusset attached to a fabric sheet via edges ,-

[0046] Fig . 14B is an exploded view of the multi - layered component with gusset attached to the top surface of the fabric sheet via edges ;

[0047] Fig . 14C is an exploded view of the multi - layered component with gusset replacing a portion of the fabric sheet by attachment via edges ,- and [0048] Fig . 14D is an exploded view of the multi- layered component with gusset wherein the base of the multi-layered component is attached to the fabric sheet .

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0049] Referring now to the drawings , in which like reference numerals are used to refer to the same or similar elements , Figs . 2 -8 show variations of a preferred embodiment of a slipcover generally designated 20 , covering a sofa 50. Some of slipcover 20 has been removed in Fig . 2 to expose parts of the sofa 50 thereunder .

[0050] The sofa 50 has arms or armrests 52 , a back 54 , a seat area 56 , and a lower body 58. The seat area 56 typically comprises a cushioned region 59 as a soft sitting surface on a seat base (not shown) . The cushioned region 59 contains one or more seat cushions generally depending on the size of the seating furniture . A first crevice region 62 is located between a lower front edge of the cushioned region and the seat base . A second crevice region 64 is located between the cushioned region 59 and each of the sofa arms 52. A third crevice region 66 is located between the back of the cushioned region 59 and the back 54 of the sofa 50. A fourth crevice region 68 is located between the sofa arms 52 and the back 54 of the sofa 50.

[0051] It is noted that although a sofa 50 is shown, the slipcover of the present invention may be used with many other types of seating furniture such as chairs , loveseats , oversized chairs , wing chairs , rocking chairs , folding chairs , outdoor furniture , sofabeds , sectionals , ottomans , futons , floor cushions , day beds , recliners , dining room chairs , sofas with one or no arms etc . , or with similar forms of seating structures such as back rests , bean bags or soft , frameless furniture etc . Also, the slipcover of the present invention may be suitable for both square cushion seats and T-cushion seats .

[0052 ] The slipcover 20 of the present invention includes a back portion 22 which covers the front , back and sides of the back of the sofa, a seat portion 24 which covers the top and front surfaces of the seating area of the sofa, a pair of arm portions 26 which cover the arms of the sofa, and a skirt portion 28 which covers the lower portion of the sofa . [0053] The slipcover 20 is fitted, semi-fitted, or unfitted . In its fitted form, slipcover 20 is sewn so that it fits precisely over the shape and size of the sofa . It may also have separate covers that precisely fit the sofa cushions . In its semi-fitted form, a portion of the slipcover 20 , such as the back, seat , or arms , are structured by the sewing of seams for example , while the remaining portions remain unstructured . A semi- fitted slipcover is preferably oversized with excess fabric which is strategically tucked into the crevice regions 64 , 66 , and 68 of the sofa 50 to achieve a " fitted" appearance despite the oversized and adjustable nature of the semi-fitted slipcover . In its unfitted form, the slipcover 20 lacks sewn structured regions altogether and is strategically tucked in around the crevice regions 64 ,

66 , and 68 as well . Extra fabric can also be tucked into crevice region 62 for slipcovers with a particular construction in which extra fabric is located in the skirt area . Again, however, the sheet of fabric forming the slipcover can be , and is usually made up of multiple panels of fabric that are attached to each other, typically by sewing . [0054] Figs . 2 -7 show a slipcover 20 with a fitted appearance . Thus , if slipcover 20 is semi-fitted or unfitted, the portions of extra fabric have already been tucked away. Fig . 8 , however, shows a semi-fitted slipcover 20 of the present invention laid on top of a sofa before the portions of excess fabric are tucked away . Excess fabric is shown in regions 104 , 106 , and 108 which is tucked into sofa crevice regions 64 , 66 , and 68 respectively, thus providing the fitted appearance .

[0055] Ties or straps 70 contribute to the fitted appearance . Semi-fitted slipcovers often use ties , D- rings , Velcro^® fasteners , snaps , etc . when constructed with excess fabric in the skirt area 28. However, semi-fitted slipcovers made of material with stretch fibers and/or a knitted construction are generally not made with excess fabric in the skirt area so that ties are not needed . [0056] The slipcover 20 , shown in Figs . 2 -8 , is also preferably a one-piece woven or non-woven sheet of fabric 30 with a selectively integrated decorative and padded multi-layered component 40. The type of material which forms the sheet of fabric 30 is not critical . The sheet of fabric 30 is one fabric or material , or a plurality of fabrics or materials combined or layered in a patterned or non-patterned form.

[0057] Fig . 2 shows one variation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which the multi-layered component 40 is selectively integrated with sheet of fabric 30 at only the seat portion 24 of the slipcover 20. If the slipcover 20 is substantially unstructured (semi-fitted or unfitted) , the multi- layered component can be used as a guide for installing the slipcover . For example , since the multi-layered component is integrated at only the seat portion of the slipcover in Fig . 2 , than installation of the slipcover is simplified because the slipcover may be initially oriented so that the multi-layered component is placed over the seat area of the furniture to be covered . Thus , the user of the slipcover does not have to struggle with determining the correct orientation of the slipcover for covering the sofa . This is especially important with unfitted slipcovers which do not have structured sewn components to act as landmarks for placing the slipcover on the furniture initially. [0058] Fig . 3 shows another variation in which the slipcover 20 only includes the multi-layered component on the arm portions of the slipcover .

[0059] Fig . 4 shows another variation in which the slipcover 20 only includes the multi-layered component on the back portion of the slipcover . [0060] Fig . 5 shows a variation in which the slipcover 20 only includes the multi-layered component on the seat and arm portions of the slipcover . [0061] Fig . 6 shows a variation in which the slipcover 20 only includes the multi-layered component on the seat and back portions of the slipcover .

[0062] Figs . 7- 8 show a variation in which the slipcover 20 only includes the multi-layered component on the seat , back, and arm portions of the slipcover . [0063] The multi-layered component 40 , as shown in more detail in Figs . 9A-9B , comprises a cushion layer

44 and at least one layer of fabric 46 covering the cushion layer 44. The fabric layer 46 and cushion layer 44 are combined together by decorative seam means . Decorative seam means include quilting, tufting or any other manner in which the relative positions of cushion layer 44 and fabric layer 46 are secured . The fabric layer 46 is woven, knitted, or non-woven and may be multi-layered . The cushion layer 44 is preferably made of any material or multiple layers of material for providing a soft and compressible seating surface , including cotton, polyester, silk, wool , fiberfill , various types of foam (e . g . , high density foam or memory foam) , or any combination thereof . The cushion layer 44 is one layer of cushion material , multiple layers of cushion material , cushion material containing fabric , cushion material covered by fabric , or any other type of cushioning known to one skilled in the art or hereafter discovered .

[0064] Fig . 9A shows the multi-layered component 40 with an overhanging edge 80. The component 40 is integrated with the fabric sheet 30 at a seam attachment line 82 so that edge 80 overhangs fabric sheet 30 by a distance x over the attachment line 82. The overhanging edge 80 may be a knife edge , a flange edge , corded edge , razor edge , or similar type of overhanging edge . The overhanging edge 80 simulates the appearance of a pillow lying on top of the fabric sheet 30 , providing a further aesthetic quality to the slipcover 20.

[0065] Fig . 9A also shows decorative seam means in the form of , for example , sewn lines 40a that create a quilted pattern and tufted points 40b created by sewing, tie downs , buttons or rivets for example .

[0066] Fig . 9B shows the multi-layered component attached to the fabric sheet 30 at an edge 90 via a seam attachment line 92 so that there is no overhang . [0067] The multi-layered component 40 is preferably- integrated either as an attachment to selected locations on the fabric sheet 30 , or as a replacement for the material of the sheet of fabric 30 in only selected locations . The multi-layered component is integrated by seam means such as sewing, gluing, heat fusing, or detachable fasteners such as zippers , hook and loop fasteners , snaps , buttons , ties , etc . If the sheet of fabric 30 includes more than one layer of material or fabric , then the multi-layered component can replace any or all of the layers of fabric or material of the fabric sheet 30. In addition, if more than one multi-layered component is integrated into fabric 30 in selected locations , each component 40 can be the same or different and the seam means can be the same or different .

[0068] The multi-layered component 40 can be attached from the top or bottom of the sheet of fabric 30. For example , a cushion layer with a bottom fabric layer can be attached from the bottom of the sheet of fabric 30 at a selected location so that the appearance of a separate multi-layered component is simulated at only the selected location . [0069] Fig . 1OA shows an exploded view of the multi- layered component 40 attached to the top surface of a selected location on the fabric sheet 30. The multi- layered component 40 can be attached to the top surface of the fabric sheet 30 by a variety of seam means known in the art such as glue , heat fusion, sewing, etc . , or detachable fasteners such as zippers , hook and loop fasteners , snaps , buttons , ties , or any other detachable fastener known in the art . The component 40 includes a top layer 46 which covers a cushion layer 44. Fig . 1OB shows the composition of the component 40 further including a bottom layer 48.

[0070] Fig . 11 shows an exploded view, of the multi- layered component 40 as a replacement for a portion of the fabric sheet 30 which is designated by a gap or hole 32. In this embodiment , the multi-layered component 40 preferably further includes a bottom fabric layer 48 below the cushion layer .

[0071] Integration of the multi-layered component 40 may be accomplished in a variety of ways . The multi- layered component can have a variety of configurations as illustrated in the embodiments shown in Figs . 12A- 14C .

[0072 ] Fig . 12A shows a multi-layered component 40 with edge 41 created by the curvature of the top fabric layer 46 at the layer end which meets with a the flat bottom surface of the cushion layer 44. If it is desired to attach the component 40 to the top surface of the fabric sheet 30 as shown in Fig . 12B, then edge 41 is attached to the top surface of the fabric sheet

30 via seam means . If it is desired to insert the component 40 as a complete replacement of a portion of the fabric sheet 30 at a selected location as shown in Fig . 12C, then the edge 41 may be directly attached to the portion or edge 34 of the fabric sheet 30 by seam means . The seam means can also include an extra gusset or flange of material 41a to further enhance the appearance of separation of the component 40 from the slipcover . Component 40 preferably includes a bottom fabric layer 48 if replacement of a portion of fabric sheet 30 is desired .

[0073 ] Fig . 13A shows a multi-layered component 40 with a base 42 and an edge 43 , which is a knife edge , a flange edge , corded edge , razor edge , or similar type of edge , formed by the curvature of both the top layer 46 and bottom layer 48 near the edge . The base 42 can be the bottom surface of one or more layers of fabric or the bottom surface of the cushion layer 44. This configuration gives the appearance that the multi- layered component 40 is a separate pillow. Fig . 13B shows that the base 42 of the multi-layered component 40 is attached directly to the top surface of fabric sheet 30 via seam means . If replacement of a portion of the fabric sheet 30 is desired, then attachment is made between a base attachment point 42a and edge 34 of the fabric sheet 30 as shown in Fig . 13C . [0074] Fig . 14A shows a multi-layered component 40 integrated with fabric sheet 30. The multi-layered component 40 includes a base 45 and a gusset 47 so that the component 40 has a generally rectangular or box- like shape . The gusset 47 can be sewn to the component with or without an additional cord or trim. The base 45 can be either a bottom surface of one or more layers of fabric or the bottom surface of the cushion layer 44. Fig . 14B shows an edge 49 of the component 40 attached to the top surface of the fabric sheet 30 via seam means . Fig . 14C shows an attachment made between edge 49 of the component 40 and edge 34 of the fabric sheet 30 via seam means . Fig . 14D shows attachment of the multi-layered component 40 to the fabric sheet 30 at the base 45 via seam means . [0075] The seam means that can be sewn or fused around the perimeter of each component to hold it to the slipcover, may alternatively be a zipper, hook and loops fasteners , snaps , buttons , ties , or other detachable fastener means . [0076] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the slipcover 20 is water resistant or waterproof (here called waterproof in a generic sense) . The fabric sheet 30 is preferably chemically treated (e . g . , sprayed or coated) with a waterproofing agent such as wax-based silicone that works on all materials including fabric and suede . Therefore , the nature of the material or materials which form the fabric sheet 30 does not have to be limited to a waterproof material . However, the material for the sheet of fabric 30 may be chosen to have an inherent water resistant capability so that chemical treatments are not necessary. This may be important since waterproofing treatments can wear off , requiring subsequent treatments . Examples of waterproof fabric materials include rubber, vinyl , polyurethane , PVC, polypropylene , nylon, Goretex, acrylic , latex, PET, silicone , teflon, taslan, polyethylene , any combinations thereof , and any other material that is inherently waterproof .

[0077] In addition, the multi-layered component 40 can have one or more layers of water resistant material or one or more layers can be chemically treated with a waterproofing agent . The multi-layered component 40 may be waterproofed alone without any other portion of the slipcover 20 being waterproofed .

[0078] The sheet of fabric 30 can also be made of a material that has a high coefficient of friction and non-slip resistance to fabrics such as for example , rubber . However, a non-slip material can also be attached to the sheet of fabric 30 for preventing the sheet of fabric 30 from moving around and becoming disheveled . For example , the sheet of fabric may be chemically treated with a material having a high coefficient of friction, or strips of rubber, plastic or other non-slipping materials may removably or permanently affixed to the bottom surface of the sheet of fabric 30 so that they make contact with the top surface of the seat area of the sofa, thereby preventing movement of the sheet of fabric 30 with respect to the seat area of the sofa . Materials which can be used for this function include rubber, vinyl , polyester scrim coated with PVC, polyurethane, some nylons , latex, PET, silicone elastomers , and any other material that has an inherently high coefficient of friction so as to be suitable for preventing slip . [0079] If the multi-layered component 40 is integrated as a replacement for a portion of the fabric sheet 30 and includes a bottom layer of fabric 48 , then the bottom layer of fabric 48 may be made of a non-slip material such as a resin or rubber, may be chemically treated with a non-slip material , or may have an attached non-slip material . Therefore , a non-slip feature is provided not only by the bottom surface of the fabric sheet 30 , but also in the selected locations where the material of the fabric sheet 30 has been replaced with the multi-layered component 40. Alternatively, strips of rubber or other non-slip material may be attached to the bottom of the fabric layer 48. The multi-layered component 40 may contain a non-slip material alone without any other portion of the fabric sheet 30 having the non-slip feature . [0080] While a specific embodiment of the invention has been shown and described in detail to illustrate the application of the principles of the invention, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles .

Claims

What is Claimed is :

1. A furniture slipcover comprising : a sheet of fabric for substantially covering a furniture seating structure ; and at least one of : a multi-layered component integrated with at least one portion of said sheet of fabric , said multi-layered component comprising a layer of cushioning material and at least a top layer of fabric ,- and at least one fastener attached to the sheet of fabric for attaching said multi-layered component to the sheet of fabric .

2. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said sheet of fabric comprises a water-resistant material .

3. A slipcover according to claim 2 , wherein said sheet of fabric is treated with a water-resistant agent .

4. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said multi-layered component includes a water-resistant material .

5. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said sheet of fabric comprises a slip-resistant material .

6. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said sheet of fabric is integrated with said multi-layered component by replacing at least one portion of said sheet of fabric with said multi-layered component .

7. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said multi-layered component further comprises a bottom layer of fabric .

8. A slipcover according to claim 7 , wherein said bottom layer of fabric includes a slip-resistant material .

9. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said at least one fastener includes at least one fastener for detachably attaching said multi-layered component to the sheet of fabric .

10. A slipcover according to claim 9 , wherein said at least one fastener includes at least one of : hook and loop fasteners , buttons , snaps , zippers , D- rings , and ties .

11. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said layer of cushioning material and said top layer of fabric are secured in their relative positions by at least one of : sewing, quilting, tufting, gluing, and applying heat fusion .

12. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said at least one portion of said sheet of fabric corresponds to at least one of : a seat portion, a back portion, an arm portion, and a skirt portion of said furniture seating structure .

13. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said multi-layered component has edges which are attached to said sheet of fabric .

14. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said multi-layered component has a gusset .

15. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said multi-layered component has edges and a base , wherein the base is attached to said sheet of fabric .

16. A slipcover according to claim 15 , wherein said edges overhang said sheet of fabric .

17. A slipcover according to claim 15 , wherein said edges include at least one of knife edges , flanged edges , cord edges , and razor edges .

18. A furniture slipcover comprising : a sheet of fabric for substantially covering a furniture seating structure having cushioning material ; and a multi-layered component integrated with at least one portion of said sheet of fabric , said multi-layered component comprising a layer of cushioning material and at least a top layer of fabric , wherein the at least one portion of said sheet of fabric corresponds to at least one of : at least one arm portion, a back portion, a seat portion, and a skirt portion of the furniture seating structure .

95 19. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein the sheet of fabric comprises a water-resistant material .

20. A slipcover according to claim 19 , wherein 100 said sheet of fabric is treated with a water-resistant agent .

21. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein said multi-layered component includes a water-resistant

105 material .

22. A slipcover according to claim 18 , further comprising a slip-resistant material attached to a bottom surface of said sheet of fabric .

110

23. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein said sheet of fabric is integrated with said multi- layered component by replacing at least one portion of said sheet of fabric with said multi-layered component .

115

24. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein said multi-layered component further comprises a bottom layer of fabric .

120 25. A slipcover according to claim 24 , wherein said bottom layer of fabric includes a slip-resistant material .

26. A slipcover according to claim 18 , further 125 comprising at least one fastener attached to the sheet of fabric for detachably attaching said multi-layered component to the sheet of fabric .

27. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein 130 said layer of cushioning material and said top layer of fabric are secured in their relative positions by at least one of : sewing, quilting, tufting, gluing, and applying heat fusion .

135 28. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein said multi-layered component has edges which are attached to said sheet of fabric .

29. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein 140 said multi-layered component has a gusset .

30. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein said multi-layered component has edges and a base , wherein the base is attached to said sheet of fabric .

145

31. A slipcover according to claim 30 , wherein said edges overhang said sheet of fabric .

32. A slipcover according to claim 30 , wherein 150 said edges include at least one of knife edges , flanged edges , cord edges , and razor edges .

33. A furniture slipcover comprising : a sheet of fabric for substantially covering a 155 piece of furniture having cushioning material ; and a multi-layered component integrated with at least one portion of said sheet of fabric , said multi-layered component comprising a layer of cushioning material and at least a top layer of fabric which are secured in 160 their relative positions by at least one of : sewing, quilting, tufting, gluing, and applying heat fushion, wherein : the at least one portion of said sheet of fabric corresponds to at least one of : at least one arm 165 portion, a back portion, a seat portion, and a skirt portion of said piece of furniture ; and a location of the at least one portion of the sheet of fabric corresponds to a location of the cushioning material of the piece of furniture . 170

34. A slipcover according to claim 33 , wherein said sheet of fabric comprises a water-resistant material .

175 35. A slipcover according to claim 34 , wherein said sheet of fabric is treated with a water-resistant agent .

36. A slipcover according to claim 33 , wherein 180 said multi-layered component includes a water-resistant material .

37. A slipcover according to claim 33 , further comprising a slip-resistant material attached to a

185 bottom surface of said sheet of fabric .

38. A slipcover according to claim 33 , wherein said sheet of fabric is integrated with said multi- layered component by replacing at least one portion of

190 said sheet of fabric with said multi-layered component .

39. A slipcover according to claim 33 , wherein said multi-layered component further comprises a bottom layer of fabric .

195

40. A slipcover according to claim 39 , wherein said bottom layer of fabric includes a slip-resistant material .

200 41. A slipcover according to claim 33 , further comprising at least one fastener attached to the sheet of fabric for detachably attaching the multi-layered component to the sheet of fabric .

205 42. A slipcover according to claim 33 , wherein said multi-layered component has edges which are attached to said sheet of fabric .

43. A slipcover according to claim 33 , wherein 210 said component has edges and a base , wherein the base is attached to said sheet of fabric .

44. A slipcover according to claim 4 , wherein said multi-layered component is treated with a water-

215 resistant agent .

45. A slipcover according to claim 7 , wherein said multi-layered component further comprises a slip- resistant material attached to said bottom layer of

220 fabric .

46. A slipcover according to claim 13 , wherein said edges are attached to said sheet of fabric by at least one of : sewing, quilting, tufting, gluing, and 225 applying heat fusion .

47. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein said at least one fastener is attached to at least a portion of said sheet of fabric corresponding to at

230 least one of : a seat portion, a back portion, an arm portion, and a skirt portion of said furniture seating structure .

48. A slipcover according to claim 1 , further 235 comprising : a removable multi-layered component having at least one fastener for interacting with the at least one fastener on the sheet of fabric to secure the removable multi-layered component to the sheet of 240 fabric .

49. A slipcover according to claim 1 , further comprising a slip-resistant material attached to a bottom surface of said sheet of fabric .

245

50. A slipcover according to claim 49 , wherein said slip-resistant material prevents slipping of said slipcover with respect to said furniture seating structure .

250

51. A slipcover according to claim 1 , wherein the furniture seating structure comprises cushioning material .

255 52. A slipcover according to claim 51 , wherein a location of the at least one portion of the sheet of fabric corresponds to a location of the cushioning material of the furniture seating structure .

260 53. A slipcover according to claim 51 , wherein a location of the at least one fastener on the sheet of fabric corresponds to a location of the cushioning material of the furniture seating structure .

265 54. A slipcover according to claim 1 , further comprising a material that is slip-resistant and water- resistant , wherein the material is attached to at least one of : the sheet of fabric and the multi-layered component .

270

55. A slipcover according to claim 21 , wherein said multi-layered component is treated with a water- resistant agent .

275 56. A slipcover according to claim 22 , wherein said slip-resistant material prevents slipping of said sheet of fabric with respect to said furniture seating structure .

280 57. A slipcover according to claim 24 , wherein said multi-layered component further comprises a slip- resistant material attached to said bottom layer of fabric .

285 58. A slipcover according to claim 26 , wherein the at least one fastener includes at least one of : hook and loop fasteners , buttons , snaps , zippers , D- rings , and ties .

290 59. A slipcover according to claim 28 , wherein said edges are attached to said sheet of fabric by at least one of : sewing, quilting, tufting, gluing, and applying heat fusion .

295 ' 60. A slipcover according to claim 18 , wherein a location of the at least one portion of the sheet of fabric corresponds to a location of the cushioning material of the furniture seating structure .

300 61. A slipcover according to claim 36 , wherein said multi-layered component is treated with a water- resistant agent .

62. A slipcover according to claim 37 , wherein 305 said slip-resistant material prevents slipping of said sheet of fabric with respect to said piece of furniture .

63. A slipcover according to claim 39 , wherein 310 said multi-layered component further comprises a slip- resistant material attached to said bottom layer of fabric .

64. A slipcover according to claim 41 , wherein 315 the at least one fastener includes at least one of : hook and loop fasteners , buttons , snaps , zippers , D- rings , and ties .

65. A slipcover according to claim 42 , wherein 320 said edges are attached to said sheet of fabric by at least one of : sewing, quilting, tufting, gluing, and applying heat fusion .