U.S. patent application number 11/196998 was filed with the patent office on 2007-02-15 for customizable gift wrap.
Invention is credited to Mary Jo Kadleck, John P. Sabalaskey.
Application Number | 20070034545 11/196998 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37728089 |
Filed Date | 2007-02-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070034545 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sabalaskey; John P. ; et
al. |
February 15, 2007 |
Customizable gift wrap
Abstract
In an embodiment, a gift wrap is provided with a graphic. The
user may customize the graphic with designs such as stickers,
stencils, and stampers as well as with writing instruments. The
user may also customize a design prior to placing the design on the
gift wrap. The completed gift wrap can provide an educational
experience for the person customizing the gift wrap while providing
the recipient with a memorable package that a portion of which may
be saved as a keepsake.
Inventors: |
Sabalaskey; John P.; (Lake
Forest, IL) ; Kadleck; Mary Jo; (Lake Forest,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BANNER & WITCOFF, LTD.
TEN SOUTH WACKER DRIVE
SUITE 3000
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
37728089 |
Appl. No.: |
11/196998 |
Filed: |
August 4, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/575 ;
206/579; 229/87.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02T 10/82 20130101;
B65D 25/205 20130101; Y10T 156/10 20150115; B65D 2203/00 20130101;
G06F 30/00 20200101; G09B 11/00 20130101; B44D 2/002 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/575 ;
229/087.01; 206/579 |
International
Class: |
B65D 75/00 20060101
B65D075/00; B65D 71/00 20060101 B65D071/00; B65D 69/00 20060101
B65D069/00 |
Claims
1. A method of providing individualized gift wrap, comprising: (a)
providing a gift wrap with a first graphic and a background, the
first graphic comprising an outline; (b) positioning a first design
on the first graphic; (c) positioning a second design on the first
graphic; and (d) customizing the gift wrap with at least one
writing instrument.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the gift wrap is a bag.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the gift wrap is a pre-sized
piece of wrapping paper.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the gift wrap is a box.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one writing
instrument is a set of colored writing instruments and (d)
comprises: (i) coloring a portion of the gift wrap.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the gift wrap includes a second
graphic, the second graphic being a detailed illustration and (d)
comprises: (i) coloring a portion of the second graphic.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the gift wrap further comprises a
border and (d) comprises: (i) customizing a portion of the
border.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the gift wrap comprises glossy
wrapping paper.
9. The method of claim 5, wherein the set of colored writing
instruments is configured to not color typical paper and the gift
wrap graphic includes an area configured to change colors in
response to the set of colored writing instruments.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: (e) customizing a
third design; and (f) positioning the third design on the gift
wrap.
11. A method of generating customizable gift wrap, comprising: (a)
providing a gift wrap, the gift wrap including a background and a
graphic; (b) placing a first design on the graphic, the placing
including: (i) selecting a first pre-generated design; and (ii)
positioning the first pre-generated design on the gift wrap in a
desired location; and (c) placing a second design on the gift
wrap.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein (c) comprises: (i) selecting a
second pre-generated design; and (ii) positioning the second
pre-generated design in a desired location on the gift wrap.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein (c) comprises: (i) generating a
customized design; and (ii) positioning the customized design on
the gift wrap.
14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: (d) providing a
border on the gift wrap, the border configured to compliment the
background.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein (a)-(c) are done over an
Internet connection.
16. The method of claim 11, wherein (a)-(c) are done in a
kiosk.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein (c) comprises: (i) uploading a
customized second design; and (ii) positioning the second design on
the template.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein (a) comprises: (i) selecting
the background and the graphic from a pre-determined selection.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein (a) further comprises: (ii)
selecting at least one color of the background.
20. A kit for providing a customized gift wrap comprising: a gift
wrap including a graphic configured to be customized by the user; a
design configured to be positioned on the gift wrap; and an
instruction for customizing the gift wrap.
21. The kit according to claim 20, wherein the kit further
comprises: a writing instrument set; and a message graphic.
22. The kit according to claim 21, wherein the kit further
comprises a craft tool kit.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of gift wrap,
more particularly to the field of customizable gift wrap.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] Gift wrap has been used for some time in conjunction with
the giving of presents. Gift wrap, such as wrapping paper,
decorated bags and boxes, allows the individual giving the gift to
ensure the gift remains a surprise until opened. Gift wrap also
allows the gift giver to make a statement based on appearance.
[0005] While most people enjoy receiving gifts, children are
especially enthusiastic about giving and getting gifts. While many
younger children want to be involved in wrapping presents using
gift wrap that is currently available, they are often discouraged
from doing so because their wrapping skills are less advanced.
Thus, they tend to feel left out of the family gift giving
preparations. Furthermore, some adults also enjoy wrapping presents
and would be willing to spend significant time preparing elaborate
packages that could be considered works of art.
[0006] Children also enjoy working with arts and crafts. For
example, children will spend considerable time preparing a project
that may be given to a family member or friend. Typically the
project involves a number of steps which will result in a completed
craft that has an attractive or interesting appearance. The
completed craft can then be displayed.
[0007] One benefit of allowing children to do crafts is that the
process of doing the craft is educational. For example, a part of a
craft may include connecting dots in numerical or alphabetical
order to form an image and the connecting of the dots allows a
child to improve hand-eye coordination, fine motor control as well
as teaching or reinforcing the knowledge of numbers and/or letters.
Naturally, the amount of educational impact and the difficulty in
completing the project depends on the developmental level of the
individual doing the craft as well as the complexity of the craft.
Certain crafts require adult level developmental skills while other
crafts can be accomplished by young children.
[0008] Known gift wrap cannot address these issues. Therefore, it
would be advantageous to combine some of the education aspects of
crafts with a customizable gift wrap.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In an embodiment of the invention, a gift wrap is provided
with a graphic on it. The graphic may include an outline that can
be modified as appropriate to create a particular appearance. One
or more designs may be placed on the gift wrap and the graphic may
be colored with a set of writing instruments. The customized wrap
may then be used to encapsulate a present. The customized wrap will
allow for a more personalized appearance that can be both fun and
educational to prepare.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and
not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference
numerals indicate similar elements and in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a gift wrap in
accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a border in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a message graphic in
accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a graphic in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a design in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a design in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a label in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a graphic in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a graphic in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a border in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a graphic in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a label in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a design in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the design
depicted in FIG. 13 in accordance with an aspect of the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic depiction of a kit in
accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment of a message graphic in
accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a design in accordance
with an aspect of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 18 illustrates elements directed toward a theme in
accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a stencil according to
an aspect of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of a stamper according to
an aspect of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0031] While various gift wrap embodiments are possible and will be
described below, it may be advantageous to provide a gift wrap
directed toward a theme. For example, but without limitation, the
gift wrap may be directed towards a calendar theme or an event
theme. Examples of calendar themes include, without limitation,
birthdays, ethnic holidays, person-specific days (e.g. Mother's
Day), religious holidays and national holidays. Event themes
include, without limitation, house warming, get well, graduation
and marriage. As can be appreciated, some themes could be
classified as both a calendar theme and an event theme. In an
embodiment a gift wrap could be provided with a neutral theme that
could become a calendar or event theme via customization.
[0032] It is noted that, as discussed above, gift wrap includes but
is not limited to, wrapping paper, bags and boxes. These types of
gift wrap can in turn be made of a variety of materials such as,
but not limited to, paper, cloth, cardboard, foil, cellophane,
plastic, Styrofoam, laminate surfaces and/or any gift wrap
materials developed in the future. In addition, each type of gift
wrap can be provided in a variety of configurations. For example,
wrapping paper can be provided in a number of different forms,
ranging from rolls to pre-cut sizes. As another example, a bag can
be provided in a small, medium or large size and may include
envelopes and/or pockets. Unless otherwise noted this disclosure is
not intended to be limiting in this regard.
[0033] Turning to FIG. 1, an embodiment of gift wrap according to
an aspect of the present invention is illustrated. A gift wrap 1,
which is depicted as being on a pre-cut size of wrapping paper,
includes a background 2. The background 2, which is shown as being
solid white for ease of illustration, may be, for example and
without limitation, a solid color, a pattern or some type of scene.
Positioned on the background 2 is a graphic 10. As depicted, the
graphic 10 represents a cake and includes a plurality of layers 12
supported by a base 14. The graphic 10 further includes an upper
surface 16. More will be said about this particular graphic
below.
[0034] It should be noted that the graphic 10 is an outline. In
general, there are two subcategories of graphics that may be
provided on the gift wrap 1: 1) outlines, and 2) detailed
illustrations. The outline provides the general shape but allow
significant customization of the graphic 10 by the user. The
detailed illustration provides much more detail but still allow the
user to customize certain aspects of the graphic 10. Thus, the
detailed illustration tends to stimulates logical thought while the
outline tends to stimulate creative thought. Naturally, this
classification may be more difficult for some graphics 10 but most
will clearly fit within one category or the other. In an
embodiment, two graphics 10 may be provided on the gift wrap 1 with
one graphic being a detailed illustration and one being an outline.
Additional graphics 10 may also be provided so as to result in a
simple or complex gift wrap as desired.
[0035] Mounted on the background 2 near the graphic 10 is a design
20. As depicted, the design 20 represents three balloons. It should
be noted that the design 20 could be shaped like a cake and the
graphic 10 could be shaped like balloons. Therefore, the design 20
and the graphic 10 may be used somewhat interchangeably. One major
difference between the graphic 10 and the design 20 is that the
graphic 10 is pre-positioned on the gift wrap 1 while the
individual doing the customization places the design 20 on the gift
wrap 1. In addition, the graphic 10 requires some customization in
order to be considered complete. Additional details regarding the
design 20 will be discussed below.
[0036] It is noted that as depicted, the graphic 10 is a primary
element of the gift wrap 1 while the design 20 is a secondary
element. Depending on the configuration of the gift wrap, the
design 20 may be the primary element while the graphic 10 is a
secondary element. pre-positioning the primary element (e.g. making
the graphic 10 the primary element) may make it easier to for the
user to create an overall more aesthetically pleasing gift wrap,
especially if the background is a scene. However, allowing the user
to position the primary element allows the user to take into
account the shape of the item being enclosed in the gift wrap 1.
For example, if the user first encloses the gift in the gift wrap
and then places the primary element on the gift wrap, the user can
better position the primary element in the desired place on the
packaged gift. It should be noted that the term user refers to one
or more individuals working or assisting in the customization of
the gift wrap.
[0037] The gift wrap 1 further includes a message graphic 30
located in a blank space 31. The message graphic includes a text
portion 32 that provides a focus for the message graphic 30 as well
as a signature line 33. The message graphic also includes a writing
portion 34, a drawing portion 36 and a decorative portion 38.
Additional details regarding the message graphic 30 will addressed
below. As can be appreciated, the blank space 31 is covered by the
message graphic 30 and therefore is no longer blank.
[0038] It should be noted that blank space 31 may be a variety of
shapes and may be used for orientation purposes as discussed
below.
[0039] The gift wrap 1 may also include a text block 40. The text
block 40 may be as depicted or may be located throughout the gift
wrap 1. For example, in a theme directed towards birthdays, a
plurality of birthday greetings in different languages may be
placed about the gift wrap 1. The text block 40 may also include
information about the subject matter of the gift wrap 1. For
example, a gift wrap 1 with a dog theme could include blocks of
text 40 that provide information about one or more dog breeds.
Thus, the text block 40 may provide an additional education aspect
and further cognitive development.
[0040] As depicted, the gift wrap 1 further includes a border 50
that includes elements 52, 54 and 56. While shown with three
elements 52, 54 and 56, the border 50 could include more or less
elements as desired and these elements may be repeated along one or
more edges of the gift wrap 1; however, for ease of illustration
only a partial border is illustrated. In an embodiment the border
may include one or more pieces of text. As can be appreciated, on a
gift wrap 1 comprising pre-sized wrapping paper the border 50 may
run along each edge. In an embodiment the border 50 may be
configured as a matte or edging. It is noted that one difference
between the border 50 and the background 2 is that the border 50
includes features intended to be customized by the user.
[0041] Returning to graphic 10, the user may customize the graphic
10 as desired and in accordance with the user's ability. For
example, the user may place designs 20; such as stickers on the
graphic 10. In an embodiment, the designs 20 may be stickers that
resemble frosting and candles so that the cake may be decorated
proportional to the recipient's age. Younger recipients could have
a birthday cake with one candle for each year of age while older
recipients could simply have sufficient candles to look reasonable.
In an embodiment, a separate sticker might be available that allows
a particular number of candles, such as 13 or 21 candles, to be
placed on the graphic 10.
[0042] Thus, the candle shaped stickers (not shown) are one
possible embodiment of the design 20. In an embodiment, a stamper
80 may be provided to produce a design 20 resembling a flame so as
to show the candles as lit.
[0043] Generally, it should be noted that while designs such as
stickers could be placed on existing gift wrap, existing gift wrap
does not include a graphic configured for user customization and
users are not given the opportunity to place designs on gift wrap
that complement the graphic they are customizing.
[0044] Turning to FIG. 2, an alternative embodiment of a portion of
a border 50 is illustrated. As can be appreciated, the border 50
represents a strand of lights. The border 50 may include indicia
(such as numbers) in each bulb regarding the appropriate color or
the bulbs may be left blank so as to give the user more creative
freedom in choosing colors.
[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the message
graphic 30. The message graphic 30 includes the text portion 32
that provides a directional focus for the message graphic 30. The
message graphic 30 also includes the writing portion 34 that allows
the user to express his or her thoughts. A drawing portion 36 may
also be provided to allow the user to make a small illustration to
complement the message. In addition, the decorative portion 38 may
also be provided. FIG. 16 provides an alternative embodiment of the
message graphic 30. While the message graphics 30 in FIG. 3 and
FIG. 16 are different, they may be configured to be the same size.
While unity of size is not required, several message graphics 30
may be provided, each with a different message and if each message
graphic 30 was the same size then the user could place the message
graphic 30 of choice in the blank space 31. It is also noted that
the blank space 31 could assist in aligning the message graphic 30
with either a graphic 10 or a design 20.
[0046] Turning to FIG. 4, a graphic 10 is illustrated in
connect-the-dots form. Once the dots are connected in numerical
order, a shape is formed that may be decorated. As can be
appreciated, the resultant graphic 10 may be either an outline or a
detailed illustration. In an alternative embodiment, the graphic 10
could include connect the dots based on alphabetical order.
Numerous additional variations in graphics 10 are possible and this
disclosure is not intended to be limiting in this respect.
[0047] FIG. 5 illustrates a design 20 that is an outline resembling
a Christmas tree. The Christmas tree shaped design 20 may be
customized with other designs 20 such as stickers resembling
Christmas tree bulbs (not shown) or stampers or stencils that can
be placed on the Christmas tree design 20 either before or after
the design 20 is mounted to the gift wrap 1 so as to decorate the
Christmas tree design 20. Thus, as can be appreciated, one design
20 may be used to decorate another design 20. Similarly, the
graphic 10 may be decorated and customized with designs 20. Thus,
designs and graphics may have similar forms. For example, a design
20 could also include a section that includes connect-the-dots,
color by numbers, etc. Thus, like the graphic 10, the design 20 may
be provided in a wide variety of configurations.
[0048] Turning to FIG. 6, an embodiment of a design 20 is depicted.
In an embodiment, the design 20 will be produced by a stencil 75
(FIG. 19). Thus, the user will place the stencil 75 on the gift
wrap and shape the design 20. The user can then further customize
the design 20 by, for example, adding color or additional details.
Naturally, this type of activity is somewhat more difficult then
placing a sticker on the gift wrap 1 and therefore may be more
suitable for users with more advanced fine motor control
skills.
[0049] A design may also be provided by a stamper 80 (FIG. 20).
Stampers exist in various configurations and, as is known, stampers
can be used with various colors of ink and additives to produce
intricate and varied designs.
[0050] Looking at FIG. 7, a label 35 is illustrated. As can be
appreciated, younger users may have trouble articulating and
writing their thoughts in a manner sufficient to complete the
message graphic 30 depicted in FIG. 1, therefore the use of the
label 35 allows the user to personalize the gift wrap with the
recipient's name and the user's name. In an alternative embodiment,
an adult could help a younger child write in the thoughts
verbalized by the child. It should be noted that the label 35 may
be preprinted on the gift wrap 1.
[0051] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate two similar examples of graphics
10. FIG. 8 illustrates a broken line depiction of the phrase
"seasons greetings." The user may draw/trace over the broken line
depiction, thereby developing fine motor skills and learning words
and letters. FIG. 9 illustrates a broken line depiction of a
snowman. The user may place designs 20 (e.g. stickers or stampers)
in the corresponding places indicated by the broken lines to
provide a completed snowman and to learn shapes and sizes.
[0052] FIG. 10 illustrates a portion of a border 50. The border
includes elements 52, 54, 56 and 58. In an embodiment these
elements may be repeated along the length of the border 50, which
may extend along the edge of the gift wrap 1 (FIG. 1). As depicted,
element 52 includes sub-element 52a and sub-element 52b that are
configured for customization (e.g. are provided blank). Similarly,
element 56 includes sub-elements 56a, 56b and 56c that may be
customized. The provision of sub-elements for customization allows
the user to more quickly customize the entire border 50 without
requiring extensive time. This also allows the border 50 to contain
a pattern or sequence that requires completion and/or correction so
as to provide additional cognitive development. For example a
repeating pattern could be missing a color or the color of one of
the sub-elements could be inconsistent with the rest of the
pattern. Providing for customization of sub-elements can be
important for larger packages that would otherwise take an
excessive amount of time to customize. Of course, similar
depictions could be part of the background and not provide for user
customization at all.
[0053] Turning to FIG. 11, another embodiment of a graphic 10 is
provided. As can be appreciated, the banner depicted by the graphic
10 could also be provided by a design 20. However, users may find
it easier to work with a graphic 10 as the size increases because
it may be difficult to properly position a design 20 if the design
20 is overly large. It should be noted that, depending on the
overall look and complexity of the gift wrap 1, the user may want
to first customize the gift wrap 1 and then enclose the gift with
the gift wrap 1. In an embodiment, the gift wrap 1 may be sectioned
before being used to enclose a plurality of gifts.
[0054] FIG. 12 illustrates a simple label 35. As can be
appreciated, for very young users the concept of a name is
unhelpful. However, even very young children can make a mark on the
label 35.
[0055] Turning to FIGS. 13 and 14, two variations of a design 20
are illustrated. FIG. 13 illustrates a design 20 that is configured
to be colored according to numbers. In an embodiment, the design 20
may be painted, however, colored writing instruments could also be
used. Thus, as used herein, to "color" something means to cause an
area to change color. This may be provided through the process of,
but is not limited to, adding color via some instrument, such as
but without limitation, a paint brush, a crayon, a pencil or
marker. FIG. 14 is also configured to be colored but according to
the first letter of the color. Thus, B could stand for black, R for
red, etc. As can be appreciated, the design 20 can be as intricate
as desired with the realization that increased amounts of skill are
required as the level of intricacy increases. It is noted that the
design 20 could also be provided as a graphic 10.
[0056] Turning now to FIG. 15, a gift kit 200 is illustrated in
schematic fashion. The gift kit 200 may include a gift wrap 210
that includes a background 2 and may also include a graphic 10
(FIG. 1). The gift kit 200 may further include a writing instrument
set 220, a sticker set 230, a paint set 240, a stencil set 250, a
stamper set 255, a design 260, a border 270, and a craft tool kit
280. In addition, an instruction 290 may also be provided as an aid
to customizing the gift wrap 210. Depending on the purpose of the
gift kit 200, one or more of these items may be omitted and other
items may be added.
[0057] The gift wrap 210 is configured to be customized, however it
should be noted that the gift wrap 210 should be configured with
respect to the items provided in the kit for the purpose of
customization. For example, if the gift kit 200 includes the paint
set 240 (which may include one or more paints and may also include
a brush) then it would be advantageous to ensure the gift wrap 210
will allow the user to apply the paint without damaging the gift
enclosed in the gift wrap 210. This may include providing a section
of the gift wrap 210 that is impervious to paint but still allows
the user to readily paint on the section. In this regard it should
be noted that gift wrap 210 in the form of a box or bag may allow
for a wider variety of customization and may be more readily
prepared in advance.
[0058] As noted above, the gift kit 200 may include one or more
sets. As used herein, the term set means one or more. Thus, for
example, the writing instrument set may be one or more writing
instruments. Writing instruments include all writing utensils such
as pens, pencils, markers, crayons, chalk and the like. In
addition, the writing instrument set 220 may contain a plurality of
different colors. In an embodiment, the writing instrument set may
include a plurality of markers configured to only make a color on a
particular type of surface with the correct chemical make-up. In an
alternative embodiment the writing instrument set may include one
marker configured to not color normal surfaces but to cause an area
with the appropriate chemical make-up to form a pattern that
includes one or more colors.
[0059] The sticker set 230 may include one or more stickers that
may be positioned on the gift wrap 210 or on other designs. The
stencil set 250 includes one or more stencils for use in
customizing the gift wrap 210 or a design 260 that is part of the
sticker set 230. The stamper set 255 includes one or more stampers
80 (FIG. 20) and may include inks of various colors configured to
be used with the stampers 80. The design 260 is configured to be
placed on the gift wrap 210. The design 260 may be mounted on the
gift wrap 210 via adhesive or tape or other mounting methods. In an
embodiment, the design 260 may have an adhesive backing that is
protected by a covering. After removing the protective covering,
the design 260 can adhere to the gift wrap. If so configured, the
design 260 will be relatively easily to place on the gift wrap 210,
either before or after the gift wrap 210 is used to enclose the
gift. Thus, in an embodiment, the sticker set 230 and the design
260 may be the same thing. In an alternative embodiment, the
sticker set 230 will include additional designs (e.g. FIGS.
13-14).
[0060] To aid in placement of the design 260, the gift wrap 210 may
include the blank area 31 (FIG. 1) that is helpful in locating the
design relative to other elements on the gift wrap 210. In an
embodiment, the gift wrap 210 may include a number of blank areas
31, each labeled numerically. Various designs 20 and/or message
graphics 50 may be provided with corresponding numbers so that they
can be positioned accordingly.
[0061] A border 270 may also be provided. However, as discussed
above, the border 270 may be pre-positioned on the gift wrap 210.
The advantage of providing a separate border 270 is that the border
270 may be positioned after the package is wrapped so as to ensure
the border 270 is located in the appropriate location.
[0062] As mentioned above, the craft tool kit 280 may also be
included and the craft tool kit 280 may include things such as
tape, glue, scissors, stampers, stamper ink, sparkles and the like.
In an embodiment, the craft tool kit 280 may include any specialty
items helpful in customizing the gift wrap according to the
instructions 290. In an alternative embodiment, the craft tool kit
280 may be complete and include all the items needed to customize
the gift wrap 210 according to the instructions 290. The advantage
of including all the needed items in the craft tool kit 280 is that
the gift kit 200 may be all-inclusive. The disadvantage is that the
cost of the kit 200 will obviously rise as additional items are
added. Furthermore, many individuals have some of the items
contained in the craft tool kit 280, thus making those items
redundant. However, for certain situations a complete craft tool
kit 280 will be desirable and provide a one-stop shopping
experience that is sometimes desired.
[0063] The kit may also include the instructions 290. While the
instructions 290 may not be needed for a gift wrap 210 that is less
intricate and more suitable for younger users, instructions 290
will likely benefit users customizing more intricate gift wrap 210.
In an embodiment, the gift kit 200 may consist of the gift wrap 210
and instructions 290. Such a gift kit 200 may help reduce the cost
and may be more desirable to individuals that have all the
materials needed to customize the gift wrap 210 but would like the
instructions.
[0064] Advances in technology allow individuals to perform many
operations automatically. Therefore, the present invention may be
utilized in a more automated process such as via a software
application over a network to generate customized gift wrap. It
could also be performed in a kiosk such as the stand-alone kiosks
typically found in shopping malls. An advantage of doing so is that
it is possible to provide a more consistent looking product if the
entire gift wrap product is produced through an automated process.
In an embodiment, the kiosk may be used to create a user selected
gift wrap that may contain, for example but without limitation, a
user selected graphic, background and/or border in an arrangement
selected by the user and then the gift wrap may be customized as
appropriate. The kiosk may also allow the user to select particular
designs for use in customizing the gift wrap. If the younger
children can play a significant role in customizing the gift wrap
itself then their cognitive and fine motor skills stage of
development can become an asset in the preparation of the gift
wrap. Thus, the wrapping of the present can provide a rewarding and
educational experience for the children and their families. In
addition, when done manually the resultant gift wrap will tend to
be unique because of variations in the process of customizing the
gift wrap.
[0065] FIG. 16 provides a further illustration of an embodiment of
a message graphic 30. As can be appreciated, the message graphic
includes the text portion 32, the writing portion 34 and the
decorative portion 38. In an embodiment the message graphic may
come pre-positioned on the gift wrap. However, such an embodiment
is most effective when the gift wrap is provided in a particular
size, such as pre-sized wrapping paper or a bag or box.
[0066] FIG. 17 illustrates a design 20. As can be appreciated,
certain holidays may consist of a number of days. In such a
situation, a gift wrap 1 may be provided that is suitable for all
or a number of the days and a plurality of designs 20 may be
provided, where one of the plurality of designs 20 is appropriate
for the each day in the series.
[0067] Turning to FIG. 18, several components are illustrated
together. As is known, many individuals take great pride in their
pets and, for example, the showing and breeding of dogs is a
significant business. Therefore, some individuals would enjoy
customizing the gift wrap I based on their pet. Accordingly,
designs 20 may be provided that relate to a general or specific pet
theme. For example, a design 20 could be provided for specific
animal breeds. In addition, the blank space 31 could be configured
to accept a design 20 in the shape of pet prints, such as paw
prints for a dog. To generate the pet prints from the user's pet, a
safe ink or a substrate with an ink provided on one side may be
used. In an alternative embodiment, the design 20 could be a
sticker, a stamper or a stencil configured to resemble a pet
print.
[0068] It should be noted that for younger individuals the process
of customizing the gift wrap is both educational and enjoyable. For
older individuals, customized gift wrap is desirable but the time
and/or skill required to create a suitable gift wrap may be more
than is available. For these individuals, a more automated process
such as can be accomplished by computer software over the Internet
may be more desirable. The individuals may still customize the gift
wrap to a greater extent than is currently available but can be
assured that the final outcome looks professional. For example, in
an embodiment the gift wrap might have a glossy finish such as is
common with conventional gift wrap while still including the user's
customization. In an embodiment the customized gift wrap could be
shipped directly to the individual's house. In another embodiment
the customized gift wrap could be obtained from a kiosk that
included the computer software for generating the customized gift
wrap. In another embodiment, customized gift wrap could be
generated via an Internet connection and a merchant could use the
customized gift wrap to package a gift and then the gift could be
sent to the intended recipient directly from the merchant. In an
alternative embodiment, the user could select and/or create a gift
wrap over the Internet as discussed above with regard to the
kiosk.
[0069] It is also noted that the gift wrap 1, when customized, may
be valuable to the recipient as a keepsake. Therefore, in an
embodiment the gift wrap 1 may be configured so that a portion of
the gift wrap 1 may be removed from the package without being
damaged so it may be saved for archival purposes. For example, gift
wrap with a removable customizable section could provide this type
of feature.
[0070] While additional variations exist, in an embodiment the gift
wrap 1 may comprise wrapping paper with a glossy finish and at
least one graphic requiring user customization. Such a gift wrap
would be similar to typical wrapping paper in finish but could be
configured so as to be incomplete as provided so that some work
would be required by the user to "finish" the wrapping paper wrap.
This would provide for some cognitive and/or motor skill
development while ensuring a professional finish. In an embodiment,
the wrapping paper would be pre-cut so as to make it easier to
position the graphic as desired. In an embodiment, the graphic
could include a section requiring coloring or the connecting of
dots in a predetermined order.
[0071] The present invention has been described in terms of
preferred and exemplary embodiments thereof. Numerous other
embodiments, modifications and variations within the scope and
spirit of the appended claims will occur to persons of ordinary
skill in the art from a review of this disclosure.
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