U.S. patent application number 12/848149 was filed with the patent office on 2011-02-03 for apparatus and method for making bows.
Invention is credited to Devon Fuentes.
Application Number | 20110024467 12/848149 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43526042 |
Filed Date | 2011-02-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110024467 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fuentes; Devon |
February 3, 2011 |
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MAKING BOWS
Abstract
A bow making template (100, 200, 300) and method for using the
bow making template to make bows of various designs and sizes is
disclosed. The bow making template could include a front (102, 202,
302), a back (not shown), a first edge (104, 204, 304), a second
edge (106, 206, 306), a top edge (108, 208, 308), a bottom edge
(110, 210, 310), a slot (112, 212, 312), and an aperture (114, 214,
314). The bow making template could further include a second slot
(216). The bow making template can be used to configure one or more
lengths of strip material in a predetermined fashion, thus shaping
the one or more lengths of strip material into desirable designs
and sizes.
Inventors: |
Fuentes; Devon; (Whitharral,
TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Klemchuk Kubasta LLP
8150 N Central Expressway, SUITE 1150
DALLAS
TX
75206
US
|
Family ID: |
43526042 |
Appl. No.: |
12/848149 |
Filed: |
July 31, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61230163 |
Jul 31, 2009 |
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61231099 |
Aug 4, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
223/46 ;
28/147 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D04D 7/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
223/46 ;
28/147 |
International
Class: |
D04D 7/10 20060101
D04D007/10 |
Claims
1. A bow making template comprising: a thin flat body having a
generally parallelogram shape, the body having a first side edge, a
second side edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge; and a slot
extending from the bottom edge of the body toward the top edge of
the body at an angle generally parallel to the first side edge and
the second side edge.
2. The bow making template of claim 1, wherein the slot extends to
a location that is closer to the top edge than the bottom edge of
the body.
3. The bow making template of claim 1, wherein the slot extends
from a location on the bottom edge approximately midway between the
first side edge and the second side edge.
4. The bow making template of claim 3 further comprising a second
slot extending at a generally right angle from the bottom edge of
the body toward the top edge of the body.
5. The bow making template of claim 4, wherein the second slot
extends to a location that is closer to the bottom edge than the
top edge of the body.
6. The bow making template of claim 1 further comprising an opening
adjacent a corner of the body.
7. The bow making template of claim 1, wherein the body has a
generally rectangular shape.
8. The bow making template of claim 1, wherein the body has a
generally square shape.
9. A method of making a bow comprising: providing a bow making
template comprising: a thin flat body having a generally
parallelogram shape, the body having a first side edge, a second
side edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge; and a slot extending from
the bottom edge of the body toward the top edge of the body at an
angle generally parallel to the first side edge and the second side
edge; providing a length of strip material having a first end and a
second end; removably attaching the first end of the strip material
to the body of the bow making template; forming a loop with the
strip material by wrapping the second end of the strip material
around the first and second side edges of the body of the bow
making template, thereby forming a front portion and a back portion
of the loop; fastening the front and back portions of the loop
through the slot in the body of the bow making template, thereby
forming first and second bow components on opposing sides of the
fastened portion of the loop; and removing the strip material from
the body of the bow making template.
10. The method of making a bow of claim 9, the method further
comprising: twisting the first and second bow components of the
strip material to form a desired bow shape.
11. The method of making a bow of claim 10, the method further
comprising: attaching a finishing component to the fastened portion
of the loop.
12. A method of making a bow comprising: providing a bow making
template comprising: a thin flat body having a generally
parallelogram shape, the body having a first side edge, a second
side edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge; and a slot extending from
the bottom edge of the body toward the top edge of the body at an
angle generally parallel to the first side edge and the second side
edge; providing a length of strip material having a first end and a
second end; removably attaching the first end of the strip material
to the body of the bow making template; forming a plurality of
loops with the strip material by repeatedly wrapping the second end
of the strip material around the first and second side edges of the
body of the bow making template, thereby forming a front portion
and a back portion of the plurality of loops; fastening the front
and back portions of the plurality of loops through the slot in the
body of the bow making template, thereby forming first and second
bow components on opposing sides of the fastened portion of the
plurality of loops; and removing the strip material from the body
of the bow making template.
13. A method of making a bow comprising: providing a bow making
template comprising: a thin flat body having a generally
parallelogram shape, the body having a first side edge, a second
side edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge; and a slot extending from
the bottom edge of the body toward the top edge of the body at an
angle generally parallel to the first side edge and the second side
edge; providing a first and a second length of strip material, each
length having a first end and a second end; removably attaching the
first end of the first length of strip material to a lower portion
of the body of the bow making template; forming a first loop with
the first length of strip material by wrapping the second end of
the first length of strip material around the first and second side
edges of the body of the bow making template, thereby forming a
front portion and a back portion of the first loop; removably
attaching the second end of the first length of strip material to
the lower portion of the body of the bow making template; removably
attaching the first end of the second length of strip material to
an upper portion of the body of the bow making template; forming a
second loop with the second length of strip material by wrapping
the second end of the second length of strip material around the
first and second side edges of the body of the bow making template,
thereby forming a front portion and a back portion of the second
loop; removably attaching the second end of the second length of
strip material to the upper portion of the body of the bow making
template; fastening the front and back portions of the first and
second loops through the slot in the body of the bow making
template, thereby forming first and second bow components on
opposing sides of the fastened portion of the first and second
loops; and removing the first and second lengths of strip material
from the body of the bow making template.
14. A method of making a bow comprising: providing a bow making
template comprising: a thin flat body having a generally
parallelogram shape, the body having a first side edge, a second
side edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge; and a slot extending from
the bottom edge of the body toward the top edge of the body at an
angle generally parallel to the first side edge and the second side
edge; providing a length of strip material having a first end, a
second end, and a midway point; removably attaching the midway
point of the strip material to the body of the bow making template;
forming a plurality of loops with the strip material by wrapping
the first end of the strip material around the first and second
side edges of the body of the bow making template at least one time
and wrapping the second end of the strip material around the second
and first side edges of the body of the bow making template at
least one time, thereby forming a front portion and a back portion
of the plurality of loops; fastening the front and back portions of
the plurality of loops through the slot in the body of the bow
making template, thereby forming first and second bow components on
opposing sides of the fastened portion of the plurality of loops;
and removing the strip material from the body of the bow making
template.
15. A method of making a bow comprising: providing a bow making
template comprising: a thin flat body having a generally
parallelogram shape, the body having a first side edge, a second
side edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge; and a slot extending from
the bottom edge of the body toward the top edge of the body at an
angle generally parallel to the first side edge and the second side
edge; providing a first and a second length of strip material, each
length having a first end and a second end; removably attaching the
first end of the first length of strip material to the body of the
bow making template; forming a first loop with the first length of
strip material by wrapping the second end of the first length of
strip material around the first and second side edges of the body
of the bow making template, thereby forming a front portion and a
back portion of the first loop; removably attaching the second end
of the first length of strip material to the lower portion of the
body of the bow making template; removably attaching the first end
of the second length of strip material to the body of the bow
making template at a point substantially aligned with the first end
of the first length of strip material; forming a second loop with
the second length of strip material by wrapping the second end of
the second length of strip material around the first and second
side edges of the body of the bow making template, thereby forming
a front portion and a back portion of the second loop; removably
attaching the second end of the second length of strip material to
the body of the bow making template at a point substantially
aligned with the second end of the first length of strip material;
fastening the front and back portions of the first and second loops
through the slot in the body of the bow making template, thereby
forming first and second bow components on opposing sides of the
fastened portion of the first and second loops; and removing the
first and second lengths of strip material from the body of the bow
making template.
16. A method of making a bow comprising: providing a bow making
template comprising: a thin flat body having a generally
parallelogram shape, the body having a first side edge, a second
side edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge; and a slot extending from
the bottom edge of the body toward the top edge of the body at an
angle generally parallel to the first side edge and the second side
edge; providing a first and a second length of strip material, each
length having a first end and a second end; removably attaching the
first end of the first length of strip material to the body of the
bow making template; forming a first loop with the first length of
strip material by wrapping the second end of the first length of
strip material around the first and second side edges of the body
of the bow making template, thereby forming a front portion and a
back portion of the first loop; fastening the front and back
portions of the first loop through the slot in the body of the bow
making template, thereby forming first and second bow components on
opposing sides of the fastened portion of the first loop; removing
the first length of strip material from the body of the bow making
template; removably attaching the first end of the second length of
strip material to the body of the bow making template; forming a
second loop with the second length of strip material by wrapping
the second end of the second length of strip material around the
first and second side edges of the body of the bow making template,
thereby forming a front portion and a back portion of the second
loop; fastening the front and back portions of the second loop to
the fastened portion of the first loop through the slot in the body
of the bow making template, thereby forming first and second bow
components on opposing sides of the fastened portion of the first
and second loops; and removing the second length of strip material
from the body of the bow making template.
17. The method of making a bow of claim 16, the method further
comprising: providing a third length of strip material having a
first end and a second end; removably attaching the first end of
the third length of strip material to the body of the bow making
template; forming a third loop with the third length of strip
material by wrapping the second end of the third length of strip
material around the first and second side edges of the body of the
bow making template, thereby forming a front portion and a back
portion of the third loop; fastening the front and back portions of
the third loop to the fastened portion of the first and second
loops through the slot in the body of the bow making template,
thereby forming first and second bow components on opposing sides
of the fastened portion of the first, second, and third loops; and
removing the third length of strip material from the body of the
bow making template.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e)
of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/230,163 filed on
Jul. 31, 2009 in the United States Patent and Trademark Office
entitled "Top Notch Template" and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/231,099 filed on Aug. 4, 2009 in the United
States Patent and Trademark Office entitled "Method for Making
Bows." The entire disclosures of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. Nos. 61/230,163 and 61/231,099 are incorporated by
reference as if fully disclosed herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the making of
decorative bows and, in particular, to an apparatus and method for
assisting in the creation of bows for decorative purposes such as
hair accessories, gift package adornments, and various other
embellishments.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A continuing demand exists for decorative articles such as
bows that are formed of ribbon or other strip materials. Bows have
long been accepted as a decorative accessory for hair, for gift
boxes, and for various other uses. It is desirable to make a
variety of bows such that they can be matched to appropriate
occasions, fashion outfits, gift boxes, sizes, color schemes, and
textures, among others. Purchasing such a wide variety of bows can
quickly become cost-prohibitive and sometimes difficult to find the
appropriate bow. Accordingly, it is desirable to develop an
apparatus and method that simplifies the process for manually
making bows having the desired shape, size, color, texture, or any
other desired characteristics.
[0004] The preparation of bows made out of ribbon or any continuous
length of strip material typically involves considerable manual
skill and dexterity, and can be quite time consuming. To solve this
need, a variety of automatic bow making devices presently exist but
such automated devices can be cost-prohibitive and/or bulky for
individuals wishing to make bows at home. Moreover, many
individuals desire the creative satisfaction of knowing that they
made their bows with a minimal amount of mechanical assistance. A
need therefore exists for an apparatus and method that assists
individuals in manually making decorative bows in a manner that
minimizes the skill, training, and/or dexterity typically
required.
SUMMARY
[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide an
apparatus and method for making bows.
[0006] In one embodiment, the present disclosure could provide a
bow making template. The bow making template could include a front,
a back, a first edge, a second edge, a top edge, a bottom edge, and
a slot. The bow making template could further include a second slot
and, still further, could include an aperture.
[0007] In another embodiment, a plurality of bow making templates
could be provided according to the present disclosure, each bow
making template having a different size and shape to enable making
bows of different shapes and designs.
[0008] In one embodiment, the present disclosure could provide a
method of using the bow making template as described above. The
method could be used for making any number of bow designs from one
or more ribbons or other lengths of strip material. The method
could include step-by-step instructions as to how to removably
attach portions of the ribbon to the bow making template, wrap
portions of the ribbon around the bow making template, removably
attach other portions of the ribbon to the bow making template,
fasten the created loop(s) utilizing the slot in the bow making
template to form bow components, and removing the ribbon with bow
components from the bow making template. The method could further
include twisting the bow components into the desired bow shape and
adding "finishing" details to achieve the desired appearance and
durability of the bow.
[0009] Other technical features may be readily apparent to one
skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] For a more complete understanding of this disclosure and its
features, reference is now made to the following description, taken
in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0011] FIG. 1A is a first exemplary illustration of a bow making
template for making bows in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 1B is a second exemplary illustration of a bow making
template for making bows in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 1C is a third exemplary illustration of a bow making
template for making bows in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a somewhat simplified flow diagram illustrating a
method of using a bow making template in accordance with one
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIGS. 3A-3I are a series of images illustrating a method of
using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to as
a "2 Loop Twist Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0016] FIGS. 4A-4K are a series of images illustrating a method of
using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to as
a "Basic Boutique Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0017] FIGS. 5A-5K are a series of images illustrating a method of
using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to as
a "Twisted Boutique Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0018] FIGS. 6A-6H are a series of images illustrating a method of
using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to as
a "Pinwheel Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0019] FIGS. 7A-7K are a series of images illustrating a method of
using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to as
a "Organza Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0020] FIGS. 8A-8L are a series of images illustrating a method of
using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to as
a "Tails Out Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0021] FIGS. 9A-9K are a series of images illustrating a method of
using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to as
a "Split Tails Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0022] FIGS. 10A-10J are a series of images illustrating a method
of using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to
as a "Tails Down Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0023] FIGS. 11A-11L are a series of images illustrating a method
of using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to
as a "2 Tone Twist Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0024] FIGS. 12A-12M are a series of images illustrating a method
of using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to
as a "2 Tone Basic Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0025] FIGS. 13A-13B are a series of images illustrating a method
of using a bow making template to make a bow sometimes referred to
as a "3 Tone Basic Bow" in accordance with one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] The present disclosure generally provides a portable,
inexpensive and simple apparatus and method for making bows.
[0027] FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C generally illustrate variations of bow
making templates 100, 200, 300 according to one embodiment of the
present disclosure. It should be understood that bow making
templates 100, 200, 300 shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, respectively,
are for illustrative purposes only and that any other suitable
apparatus or component could be used in conjunction with or in lieu
of bow making template 100, 200, 300 according to one embodiment of
the present disclosure.
[0028] Referring now to FIG. 1A, bow making template 100 could
generally include front 102, back (not shown), first edge 104,
second edge 106, top edge 108, bottom edge 110, slot 112, and
aperture 114 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
The body of bow making template 100 generally has an upper portion
closer to the top edge 108 and a lower portion closer to the bottom
edge 110.
[0029] Slot 112 is generally located at an approximate midpoint
between the first edge 104 and the second edge 106 such that slot
112 will fall approximately at the center of ribbon loops when bow
making template 100 is used to make a bow. Slot 112 generally
extends from the bottom edge 110 such that there is an opening at
the bottom edge 110 where the slot 112 intersects therewith.
Although it could terminate in the lower portion of the body, slot
112 preferably extends into the upper portion of the body of bow
making template 100. The exact point to which slot 112 extends into
the upper portion is not critical, but it is generally noted that
the closer that slot 112 approaches to top edge 108 the more space
there is to manipulate strip material on bow making template 100.
On the other hand, the closer that slot 112 approaches to top edge
108 the higher the risk that bow making template 100 will fracture.
The width of slot 112 should be sufficient to accommodate a needle,
pushpin, or other fastening device used for making bows.
[0030] Bow making template 100 could be made of hard plastic, soft
plastic, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), silicon, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester,
high-gloss polyester, polymer plastic, wood, brass, steel, silicon,
synthetic rubber, natural rubber, natural fiber, synthetic fiber,
fiberglass, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, metal, mesh, other
suitable materials, or any combination thereof according to one
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] Although the embodiment of FIG. 1A depicts a bow making
template 100 having a generally square shape, any parallelogram
shape wherein the first edge 104 and the second edge 106 are
substantially parallel would be acceptable. For example, bow making
template 100 could have a generally rectangular shape as depicted
in FIGS. 1B and 1C could be equally effective according to one
embodiment of the present disclosure. Moreover, while the
embodiment of FIG. 1A depicts a bow making template 100 having
sharp right angle corners, the intersections between first edge
104, top edge 108, second edge 106, and bottom edge 110 could take
other shapes such as a rounded corner, a chamfered corner, any
other shape, or any combination thereof.
[0032] As can be seen in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, aperture 114, 214,
314 can have a circular shape but could also have any other shape
such as a rectangle, square, oval, any other shape, or any
combination thereof. As depicted in FIG. 1C, aperture 114, 214, 314
can be used as a mechanism for coupling bow making template 100,
200, 300 to a retention device such as detachable ring 318.
Aperture 114, 214, 314 thus simplifies the organization and
portability of bow making template 100, 200, 300.
[0033] Bow making template 200 illustrated in FIG. 1B could include
front 202, back (not shown), first edge 204, second edge 206, top
edge 208, bottom edge 210, first slot 212, and aperture 214. In one
embodiment, bow making template 200 could be similar to bow making
template 100 shown in and described in conjunction with the
description accompanying FIG. 1A above (with like parts having
similar numbers).
[0034] In one embodiment, bow making template 200 could have a
second slot 216. Second slot 216 is generally located at an
approximate midpoint between first slot 212 and the first edge 104
such that second slot 216 will fall approximately at the center of
ribbon loops when bow making template 200 is used to make a bow
wrapped from first edge 104 to first slot 112. Second slot 216
generally extends from the bottom edge 110 such that there is an
opening at the bottom edge 110 where the second slot 216 intersects
therewith. Although it could terminate in the upper portion of the
body, second slot 216 preferably extends only into the lower
portion of the body of bow making template 100. The exact point to
which slot 112 extends into the lower portion is not critical, but
it is generally noted that a bow made using first edge 204 and
first slot 212 will typically be relatively smaller than a bow made
using the full width of bow making template 200 between first edge
204 and second edge 206. Accordingly, it is less likely that a
relatively lengthy second slot 216 would be necessary. As with
first slot 212, the width of second slot 216 should be sufficient
to accommodate a needle, pushpin, or other fastening device used
for making bows. Although other advantages will be apparent to one
of ordinary skill in the art, one benefit of second slot 216 is
that it provides additional flexibility to a single bow making
template 200 by allowing a user to make bows of different sizes
using a single template.
[0035] Bow making template 300 illustrated in FIG. 1C could include
front 302, back (not shown), first edge 304, second edge 306, top
edge 308, bottom edge 310, slot 312, and aperture 314. In one
embodiment, bow making template 300 could be similar to bow making
template 100 shown in and described in conjunction with the
description accompanying FIG. 1A above (with like parts having
similar numbers).
[0036] Although neither bow making template 100 nor bow making
template 300 are depicted with a second slot, such second slot
could be added thereto. Moreover, although not depicted, additional
slots could also be added as necessary.
[0037] In one preferred embodiment, bow making templates 100, 200,
300 could be packaged together with other similar bow making
templates of various sizes. In this manner, a user would have the
option of making bows of various sizes depending on the specific
size template chosen.
[0038] FIG. 2 is a somewhat simplified flow diagram illustrating
method 400 of using a bow making template to make a bow in
accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should
be understood that method 400 shown in FIG. 2 is for illustrative
purposes only and that any other suitable method or sub-method
could be used in conjunction with or in lieu of method 400
according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It should
also be understood that the steps of method 400 could be performed
in any suitable order or manner.
[0039] In one embodiment, step 402 could include a user selecting a
desired bow design from a collection of potential designs,
including but not limited to those designs illustrated herein. It
will be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that a
virtually unlimited number of bow designs can be made using the
apparatus and method of the present disclosure. For any bow design,
the user could obtain step-by-step bow design instructions
detailing recommended steps for attaching and wrapping a ribbon or
other strip material on the bow making template.
[0040] In step 404, the user removably attaches a first end of the
ribbon or other strip material to bow making template 100, 200, 300
pursuant to the step-by-step bow design instructions.
Alternatively, if the instructions so instruct, the user could
removably attach a midpoint of the ribbon or other strip material
to bow making template 100, 200, 300. The instructions could
include guidance as to a specific or general location on the body
of bow making template 100, 200, 300 where the first end (or
midpoint) of the ribbon should be removably attached.
[0041] In step 406, the user wraps the ribbon or other strip
material around bow making template 100, 200, 300 according to the
step-by-step bow design instructions. The instructions could
include guidance as to the orientation, direction, number of loops,
and any other instructions as to the proper technique for wrapping
the ribbon in order to create the desired bow design. The
instructions could also include instructions regarding intermediate
steps wherein one portion of a ribbon needs to be fastened to
another portion of the ribbon (or to a second ribbon) during step
406.
[0042] In step 408, the user removably attaches the second end of
the ribbon to bow making template 100, 200, 300 according to the
step-by-step bow design instructions. Alternatively, if the
instructions so instruct, the user could removably attach both the
second end and the first end of ribbon if the midpoint of the
ribbon or other strip material was removably attached to bow making
template 100, 200, 300 in step 404. Although not shown in FIG. 2,
if the bow design instructions so instruct, the user could repeat
steps 404, 406, 408 with a second ribbon and continue repeating
with any additional ribbons necessary for the bow design.
[0043] In step 410, the user fastens the loops in the ribbon or
strip material created during the wrapping step 406. The fastening
step utilizes the opening in the template provided by slot 112,
212, 312 by allowing the selected fastener (such as a needle or a
pushpin) to pass through the ribbon portion located on the front
102, 202, 302 of the template, through slot 112, 212, 312, and
through the ribbon portion located on the back (not shown) of the
template. Once fastening step 410 is completed, the user will have
formed bow components on opposing sides of the center of the ribbon
loops.
[0044] In step 412, the user removes the ribbon or other strip
material, now with bow components formed, from bow making template
100, 200, 300. The ribbon or other strip material could simply
slide off of the template after the removable attachments are
removed from the ribbon and template. Although not shown in FIG. 2,
if the bow design instructions so instruct, the user could repeat
steps 404, 406, 408, 410, 412 with a second ribbon and continue
repeating with any additional ribbons necessary for the bow
design.
[0045] In step 414, the user twists the bow components to form the
desired bow shape according to the step-by-step bow design
instructions.
[0046] In step 416, the user can add any desired "finishing"
details as explained elsewhere in the present disclosure.
[0047] Following are step-by-step methods for using bow making
templates 100, 200, 300 to make a variety of bow designs. It should
be understood that the following bow designs can also be made using
bow making templates of different sizes or shapes than the
representative embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C. Although
certain representative bow designs are described for illustrative
purposes, the scope of use of bow making templates according to the
present disclosure is not limited to any particular bow
designs.
[0048] While the following examples refer to using a standard
ribbon material for making bows, any relatively flat strip material
could be used to make bows according to the present disclosure.
Acceptable strip materials could include ribbon, cloth, canvas,
silk, chiffon, polyester, cotton, flax, wool, ramie, nylon,
recycled materials, rope, fiber, sisal, other suitable material, or
any combination thereof.
[0049] "2 Loop Twist Bow"
[0050] With respect to FIGS. 3A-3I, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "2 Loop
Twist Bow."
[0051] (1) Clip 540 a first end 522 of the ribbon 520 to the front
502 of the bow making template 500 near the second edge 506 of the
template 500 (FIG. 3A). If a long tail is desired, wrap the first
end 522 of the ribbon 520 around the second edge 506 of the
template 500 before clipping the ribbon 520 in place.
[0052] (2) Wrap the second end 524 of the ribbon 520 straight
across and around the first edge 504 of the bow making template 500
and then straight across the back of the template 500 (FIG.
3B).
[0053] (3) Wrap the second end 524 of the ribbon 520 around the
second edge 506 of the bow making template 500 and clip 540 the
second end 524 of the ribbon 520 in place (FIG. 3C).
[0054] (4) Place a pin 550 through the slot 512 of the bow making
template 500 and through the front and back portions of the ribbon
loop created by the prior steps, thus forming bow components 560
(FIG. 3D).
[0055] (5) Remove the clip 540 and slide the ribbon 520 off of the
bow making template 500 (FIG. 3E).
[0056] (6) Twist the bow components 560 to generally form a FIG. 8
shape (FIG. 3F).
[0057] (7) Fasten 570 the central portion of the bow components
(FIGS. 3G-3I).
[0058] "Basic Boutique Bow"
[0059] With respect to FIGS. 4A-4K, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "Basic
Boutique Bow."
[0060] (1) Clip 640 a first end 622 of the ribbon 620 to the front
602 of the bow making template 600 near the second edge 606 of the
template 600. Orient the ribbon 620 such that the first end 622 of
the ribbon 620 begins at a lower portion of the template 600 and
the ribbon 620 extends to an upper portion of the template 600 as
it approaches the first edge 604 of the template 600 (FIG. 4A).
[0061] (2) Wrap the second end 624 of the ribbon 620 around the
first edge 604 of the bow making template 600 and straight across
the upper portion of the back of the template 600 (FIG. 4B).
[0062] (3) Wrap the second end 624 of the ribbon 620 around the
second edge 606 of the bow making template 600 and then toward a
lower portion of the template 600 as it approaches the first edge
604 of the template 600, thereby forming an X across the front 602
of the template 600 (FIG. 4C).
[0063] (4) Wrap the second end 624 of the ribbon 620 around the
first edge 604 of the bow making template 600 and straight across
the lower portion of the back of the template 600 (FIG. 4D).
[0064] (5) Wrap the second end 624 of the ribbon 620 around the
second edge 606 of the bow making template 600 and then toward an
upper portion of the template 600 as it approaches the first edge
604 of the template 600, thereby overlapping with the first end 622
of the ribbon 620. Clip 642 the second end 624 of the ribbon 620 in
place (FIG. 4E).
[0065] (6) Through the slot 612 of the bow making template 600 and
through the front and back portions of the ribbon loops created by
the prior steps, fasten 670 the central portion of the ribbon loops
to form bow components 660 (FIGS. 4F-4G).
[0066] (7) Remove the clips 640, 642 and slide the ribbon 620 off
of the bow making template 600 (FIG. 4H).
[0067] (8) Twist the bow components 660 to the desired shape (FIGS.
4I-4K).
[0068] "Twisted Boutique Bow"
[0069] With respect to FIG. 5A-5K, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "Twisted
Boutique Bow."
[0070] (1) Clip 740 a first end 722 of the ribbon 720 to the front
702 of the bow making template 700 near the second edge 706 of the
template 700 (FIG. 5A).
[0071] (2) Wrap the second end 724 of the ribbon 720 straight
across and around the first edge 704 of the bow making template 700
and then straight across the back of the template 700 (FIG.
5B).
[0072] (3) Continue wrapping the second end 724 of the ribbon 720
straight across and around the second edge 706 and first edge 704
of the template 700 until the entire ribbon 720 has been wrapped
around the template 700. Clip 742 the second end 724 of the ribbon
720 in place (FIGS. 5C-5E).
[0073] (4) Place a pin 750 through the slot 712 of the bow making
template 700 and through the front and back portions of the ribbon
loops created by the prior steps, thus forming bow components 760
(FIG. 5F).
[0074] (5) Remove the clips 740, 742 and slide the ribbon 720 off
of the bow making template 700 (FIG. 5G).
[0075] (6) Twist the various bow components 760 formed by the loops
to create the desired shape (FIG. 5H).
[0076] (7) Fasten 770 the central portion of the bow components 760
(FIGS. 5I-5K).
[0077] "Pinwheel Bow"
[0078] With respect to FIG. 6A-6H, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "Pinwheel
Bow."
[0079] (1) Clip 840 a first end 822 of the ribbon 820 to the front
802 of the bow making template 800 such that the first end 822 of
the ribbon 820 is approximately flush with the bottom edge 810 and
the second edge 806 of the template 800 and the second end 824 of
the ribbon 820 extends toward an upper portion of the template 800
as it approaches the first edge 804 of the template 800 (FIG.
6A).
[0080] (2) Wrap the second end 824 of the ribbon 820 around the
first edge 804 and across the back of the template 800 such that
the second end 824 of the ribbon 820 continues to extend toward an
upper portion of the template 800 as it approaches the second edge
806 of the template 800 (FIG. 6B).
[0081] (3) Continue wrapping the second end 824 of the ribbon 820
around the second edge 806 and the first edge 804 of the template
800 until the entire ribbon 820 has been wrapped around the
template 800. Each consecutive loop formed by the ribbon 820 should
be positioned such that the respective edges of the ribbon loops
are in contact with one another. Clip 842 the second end 824 of the
ribbon 820 in place (FIGS. 6C-6D).
[0082] (4) Through the slot 812 of the bow making template 800 and
through the front and back portions of the ribbon loops created by
the prior steps, sew 870 an appropriate number of stitches through
the center of the ribbon 820 to form bow components 860 (FIG.
6E).
[0083] (5) Remove the clips 840, 842 and slide the ribbon 820 off
of the bow making template 800 (FIG. 6F).
[0084] (6) Twist the various bow components 860 to create the
desired shape (FIG. 6G-6H).
[0085] "Organza Bow"
[0086] With respect to FIG. 7A-7K, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as an "Organza
Bow."
[0087] (1) Clip 940 a first end 922 of the ribbon 920 to the front
902 of the bow making template 900 near the second edge 906 of the
template 900. Orient the ribbon 920 such that the first end 922 of
the ribbon 920 begins at an approximate midpoint between the lower
portion and upper portion of the template 900 and the ribbon 920
extends to a lower portion of the template 900 as it approaches the
first edge 904 of the template 900 (FIG. 7A).
[0088] (2) Wrap the second end 924 of the ribbon 920 around the
first edge 904 of the bow making template 900 and straight across
the lower portion of the back of the template 900 (FIG. 7B).
[0089] (3) Wrap the second end 924 of the ribbon 920 around the
second edge 906 of the bow making template 900 and then toward an
approximate midpoint between the lower portion and upper portion of
the template 900 as it approaches the first edge 904 of the
template 900, thereby forming an X across the front 902 of the
template 900. Clip 942 of the ribbon 920 to the first edge 904 of
the template 900(FIG. 7C).
[0090] (4) Wrap the second end 924 of the ribbon 920 around the
first edge 904 of the bow making template 900 and straight across
the back of the template 900 at an approximate midpoint between the
lower portion and the upper portion of the template 900 (FIG.
7D).
[0091] (5) Wrap the second end 924 of the ribbon 920 around the
second edge 906 of the bow making template 900 and then toward an
upper portion of the template 900 as it approaches the first edge
904 of the template 900 (FIG. 7E).
[0092] (6) Wrap the second end 924 of the ribbon 920 around the
first edge 904 of the bow making template 900 and straight across
an upper portion of the back of the template 900 (FIG. 7F).
[0093] (7) Wrap the second end 924 of the ribbon 920 around the
second edge 906 of the bow making template 900 and then toward an
approximate midpoint between the lower portion and upper portion of
the template 900 as it approaches the slot 912 of the template 900.
Clip 944 the second end 924 of the ribbon 920 in place (FIG.
7G).
[0094] (8) Through the slot 912 of the bow making template 900 and
through the front and back portions of the ribbon loops created by
the prior steps, sew 970 an appropriate number of stitches through
the center of the ribbon 920 to form bow components 960 (FIG.
7H).
[0095] (9) Remove the clips 940, 942, 944 and slide the ribbon 920
off of the bow making template 900 (FIG. 71).
[0096] (10) Twist the various bow components 960 to create the
desired shape (FIGS. 7J-7K).
[0097] "Tails Out Bow"
[0098] With respect to FIG. 8A-8L, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "Tails Out
Bow."
[0099] (1) Position a first end 1022 of the ribbon 1020 on the
front 1002 of the bow making template 1000 such that the first end
1022 extends beyond the second edge 1006 of the template 1000.
Orient the ribbon 1020 such that the first end 1022 of the ribbon
1020 begins at a lower portion of the template 1000 and the ribbon
1020 extends to an upper portion of the template 1000 as it
approaches the first edge 1004 of the template 1000 (FIG. 8A). Clip
1040 the first end 1022 of the ribbon 1020 such that it folds over
the second edge 1006 of the bow making template 1000 (FIG. 8B).
[0100] (2) Wrap the second end 1024 of the ribbon 1020 around the
first edge 1004 of the bow making template 1000 and straight across
the upper portion of the back of the template 1000 (FIG. 8C).
[0101] (3) Wrap the second end 1024 of the ribbon 1020 around the
second edge 1006 of the bow making template 1000 and then toward
the lower portion of the template 1000 as it approaches the first
edge 1004 of the template 1000, thereby forming an X across the
front 1002 of the template 1000 (FIG. 8D).
[0102] (4) Wrap the second end 1024 of the ribbon 1020 around the
first edge 1004 of the bow making template 1000 and straight across
the lower portion of the back of the template 1000 (FIG. 8E).
[0103] (5) Wrap the second end 1024 of the ribbon 1020 around the
second edge 1006 of the bow making template 1000 and then toward an
upper portion of the template 1000 as it approaches the first edge
1004 of the template 1000, but tuck the second end 1024 of the
ribbon 1020 underneath the previous loop across the front 1002 of
the template 1000 that formed the X shape (FIG. 8F). Clip 1042 the
second end 1024 of the ribbon 1020 in place (FIG. 8G).
[0104] (8) Through the slot 1012 of the bow making template 1000
and through the front and back portions of the ribbon loops created
by the prior steps, sew 1070 an appropriate number of stitches
through the center of the ribbon 1020 to form bow components 1060
(FIG. 8H).
[0105] (9) Remove the clips 1040, 1042 and slide the ribbon 1020
off of the bow making template 1000 (FIG. 81).
[0106] (10) Twist the various bow components 1060 to create the
desired shape (FIG. 8J-8L).
[0107] "Split Tails Bow"
[0108] With respect to FIG. 9A-9K, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "Split Tails
Bow."
[0109] (1) Clip 1140 a first end 1122 of a first ribbon 1120 to a
lower portion of the back of the bow making template 1100 near the
second edge 1106 of the template 1100 (FIG. 9A).
[0110] (2) Wrap the second end 1124 of the first ribbon 1120
straight across and around the first edge 1104 of the bow making
template 1100 and then straight across the front 1102 of the
template 1100 (FIG. 9B).
[0111] (3) Wrap the second end 1124 of the first ribbon 1120 around
the second edge 1106 of the bow making template 1100 and then
straight across the back of the template 1100 such that the second
end 1124 of the first ribbon 1120 hangs over the first edge 1104 of
the template 1100. Clip 1142 the second end 1124 of the first
ribbon 1120 in place (FIG. 9C).
[0112] (4) Clip 1144 a first end 1182 of a second ribbon 1180 to an
upper portion of the back of the bow making template 1100 near the
first edge 1104 of the template 1100 (FIG. 9D).
[0113] (5) Wrap the second end 1184 of the second ribbon 1180
straight across and around the second edge 1106 of the bow making
template 1100 and then straight across the front 1102 of the
template 1100 (FIG. 9E).
[0114] (6) Wrap the second end 114 of the second ribbon 1180 around
the first edge 1104 of the bow making template 1100 and then
straight across the back of the template 1100 such that the second
end 1184 of the second ribbon 1180 hangs over the second edge 1106
of the template 1100. Clip 1146 the second end 1184 of the second
ribbon 1180 in place (FIG. 9F).
[0115] (7) Through the slot 1112 of the bow making template 1100
and through the front and back portions of the ribbon loop created
by the prior steps, sew 1170 an appropriate number of stitches
through the center of the ribbons 1120, 1180 to form bow components
1160 (FIG. 9G).
[0116] (8) Remove the clips 1140, 1142, 1144, 1146 and slide both
ribbons 1120, 1180 off of the bow making template 1100 (FIG.
9H).
[0117] (9) Twist the various bow components 1160 to create the
desired shape (FIGS. 9I-9K).
[0118] "Tails Down Bow"
[0119] With respect to FIG. 10A-10J, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "Tails Down
Bow."
[0120] (1) Position the ribbon 1220 on the front 1202 of the bow
making template 1200 such that an approximate midpoint 1226 of the
ribbon 1220 is aligned with the slot 1212 in the template 1200.
Orient the ribbon 1220 such that it extends straight across an
upper portion of the template 1200. Clip 1240 the ribbon 1220 to
the bow making template 1200 (FIG. 10A).
[0121] (2) Wrap the first end 1222 of the ribbon 1220 around the
second edge 1206 of the bow making template 1200 and then across
the back of the template 1200 toward a lower portion of the
template 1200 as it approaches the first edge 1204 of the template
1200 (FIG. 10B).
[0122] (3) Wrap the second end 1224 of the ribbon 1220 around the
first edge 1204 of the bow making template 1200 and then across the
back of the template 1200 toward a lower portion of the template
1200 as it approaches the second edge 1206 of the template 1200,
thereby forming an X across the back of the template 1200 (FIG.
10C).
[0123] (4) Wrap the first end 1222 of the ribbon 1220 around the
first edge 1204 of the bow making template 1200 and then across the
front 1202 of the template 1200 toward a lower portion of the
template 1200 as it approaches the second edge 1206 of the template
1200. Clip 1242 the first end 1222 of the ribbon 1220 in place
(FIG. 10D).
[0124] (5) Wrap the second end 1224 of the ribbon 1220 around the
second edge 1206 of the bow making template 1200 and then across
the front 1202 of the template 1200 toward a lower portion of the
template 1200 as it approaches the first edge 1204 of the template
1200, thereby forming an X across the front 1202 of the template
1200. Clip 1244 the second end 1224 of the ribbon 1220 in place
(FIG. 10E).
[0125] (8) Through the slot 1212 of the bow making template 1200
and through the front and back portions of the ribbon loops created
by the prior steps, sew 1270 an appropriate number of stitches
through the center of the ribbon 1220 to form bow components 1260
(FIG. 10F).
[0126] (9) Remove the clips 1240, 1242, 1244 and slide the ribbon
1220 off of the bow making template 1200 (FIG. 10G).
[0127] (10) Twist the various bow components 1260 to create the
desired shape (FIGS. 10H-10J).
[0128] "2 Tone Twist Bow"
[0129] With respect to FIG. 11A-11L, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "2 Tone
Twist Bow."
[0130] (1) Clip 1340 a first end 1322 of a first ribbon 1320 to a
lower portion of the front 1302 of the bow making template 1300
near the slot 1312 in the template 1300 (FIG. 11A).
[0131] (2) Wrap the second end 1324 of the first ribbon 1320
straight across over the slot 1312 and around the first edge 1304
of the bow making template 1300 and then straight across the back
of the template 1300 (FIG. 11B).
[0132] (3) Wrap the second end 1324 of the first ribbon 1320 around
the second edge 1306 of the bow making template 1300 and then
straight across the front 1302 of the template 1300 such that the
second end 1324 of the first ribbon 1320 slightly passes the slot
1312 in the template 1300. Clip 1340 the second end 1324 of the
first ribbon 1320 in place (FIG. 11C).
[0133] (4) Clip 1324 a first end 1382 of a second ribbon 1380 to a
lower portion of the front 1302 of the bow making template 1300
generally aligned with the first end 1322 of the first ribbon 1320
near the slot 1312 in the template 1300 (FIG. 11D).
[0134] (5) Wrap the second end 1384 of the second ribbon 1380
straight across over the slot 1312 and around the first edge 1304
of the bow making template 1300 and then straight across the back
of the template 1300. Using dots of glue or other adhesive, attach
the second ribbon 1380 to the first ribbon 1320 where the two
ribbons 1320, 1380 overlap at the back of the bow making template
1300 (FIG. 11E).
[0135] (6) Wrap the second end 1384 of the second ribbon 1380
around the second edge 1306 of the bow making template 1300 and
then straight across the front 1302 of the template 1300 such that
the second end 1384 of the second ribbon 1380 generally aligns with
the second end 1324 of the first ribbon 1320 near the slot 1312 in
the template 1300. Clip 1342 the second end 1384 of the second
ribbon 1380 in place (FIGS. 11F-11G).
[0136] (7) Through the slot 1312 of the bow making template 1300
and through the front and back portions of the ribbon loops created
by the prior steps, fasten 1350 the central portion of the ribbon
loops to form bow components 1360 (FIG. 11H).
[0137] (8) Remove the clips 1340, 1342 and slide the ribbons 1320,
1380 off of the bow making template 1300.
[0138] (9) Twist the bow components 1360 to the desired shape
(FIGS. 11I-11L).
[0139] "2 Tone Basic Bow"
[0140] With respect to FIG. 12A-12M, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "2 Tone
Basic Bow."
[0141] (1) Clip 1440 a first end 1422 of a first ribbon 1420 to a
lower portion of the front 1402 of the bow making template 1400
near the slot 1412 in the template 1400 (FIG. 12A).
[0142] (2) Wrap the second end 1424 of the first ribbon 1420
straight across over the slot 1412 and around the first edge 1404
of the bow making template 1400 and then straight across the back
of the template 1400 (FIG. 12B).
[0143] (3) Wrap the second end 1424 of the first ribbon 1420 around
the second edge 1404 of the bow making template 1400 and then
straight across the front 1402 of the template 1400 such that the
second end 1424 of the first ribbon 1420 slightly passes the slot
1412 in the template 1400. Clip 1440 the second end 1424 of the
first ribbon 1420 in place (FIG. 12C).
[0144] (4) Through the slot 1412 in the back of the bow making
template 1400 and through the front and back portions of the ribbon
loop created by the prior steps, fasten 1450 the central portion of
the ribbon loop to form bow components 1460 (FIG. 12D).
[0145] (5) Remove the clip 1440 and slide the first ribbon 1420 off
of the bow making template 1400 (FIG. 12E).
[0146] (6) Repeat steps (1) through (3) with a second ribbon 1480
(FIGS. 12F-12H).
[0147] (7) Through the slot 1412 in the back of the bow making
template 1400 and through the front and back portions of the ribbon
loop created by the prior steps, use the same fastener 1450 used
for the first ribbon 1420 to stack the two ribbons 1420, 1480 by
fastening the central portion of the second ribbon loop (FIG.
121).
[0148] (8) Remove the clip 1440 and slide the second ribbon 1480
off of the bow making template 1400 (FIG. 12J).
[0149] (9) Rotate the first ribbon 1420 and the second ribbon 1480
to form an X with the respective bow components 1460 (FIG.
12K).
[0150] (10) Sew 1470 an appropriate number of stitches through the
center of the ribbons 1420, 1480 between the respective bow
components 1460 (FIG. 12L).
[0151] (11) Twist the bow components 1460 to the desired shape
(FIG. 12M).
[0152] "3 Tone Basic Bow"
[0153] With respect to FIGS. 13A-13B, following is a representative
method by which the bow making template of the present disclosure
can be used to create a bow sometimes referred to as a "3 Tone
Basic Bow."
[0154] (1) Perform steps (1) through (8) for making a "2Tone Basic
Bow" (FIGS. 12A-12M).
[0155] (2) Perform steps (1) through (3) with a third ribbon 1520
(FIGS. 12A-12C).
[0156] (3) Through the slot 1412 in the back of the bow making
template 1400 and through the front and back portions of the ribbon
loop created by the prior steps, use the same fastener 1450 used
for the first and second ribbons 1420, 1480 to stack the three
ribbons 1420, 1480, 1520 by fastening the central portion of the
third ribbon loop.
[0157] (4) Remove the clip 1440 and slide the third ribbon 1520 off
of the bow making template 1400 (FIG. 13A).
[0158] (5) Rotate the first, second, and third ribbons 1420, 1480,
1520 to offset the respective bow components 1460, 1560 (FIG.
13B).
[0159] (6) Sew an appropriate number of stitches through the center
of the ribbons 1420, 1480, 1520 between the respective bow
components 1460, 1560.
[0160] (7) Twist the bow components 1460, 1560 to the desired
shape.
[0161] As previously noted, a second slot 216 such as that depicted
in FIG. 1B allows a user to make a smaller version of any of the
bows disclosed above or any other bows. Similarly, a third slot
could also be added to bow making template 100, 200, 300 to allow a
still smaller version of any bow.
[0162] When making bows according to the present disclosure,
certain tools may be useful. The scope of the present disclosure is
not limited to any particular type of tools, but double prong
alligator clips, single prong alligator clips, and gripper clips
could be used when using bow making templates 100, 200, 300 to make
bows according to the present disclosure. Moreover, it may be
advantageous to line such clips with a non-slip material that could
help prevent unintended movement of the ribbon relative to bow
making templates 100, 200, 300 when making a bow.
[0163] When making bows according to the present disclosure,
certain techniques may help to improve the wearability or life
cycle of the strip material used for the bow, especially if the
material used is standard ribbon. For example, the ends of the
ribbon could be sealed by various methods such as a fray check
liquid, a lighter or candle flame, or a wood burning tool.
[0164] When making bows according to the present disclosure, any
suitable method can be used to fasten the center of the ribbon(s)
between the bow components. Examples of suitable methods include
sewing the center together and/or tying the center using wire or
thread. When the center is sewn, stitches are preferably evenly
distributed across the width of the ribbon and, where ribbon loops
are aligned side by side, stitches preferably overlap the aligned
edges of the ribbon loops to reduce unintended movement of the
ribbon loops. When the center is tied using wire or thread, the tie
is preferably adapted to prevent the ribbon loops from unintended
movement after the bow is completed. Suitable methods for fastening
the center of the ribbon(s) between the bow components could also
include a snap, button, adhesive, tape, glue, temporary adhesive,
spray adhesive, heat sensitive adhesive, hook-and-loop fastener,
removable adhesive tab, peel-and-stick material, clay, putty,
sticky material, staple, retaining structure, clip, screw, pin,
other suitable adhesive or retaining device, or any combination
thereof.
[0165] When a bow is completed according to the present disclosure,
additional "finishing" details can be added. By way of example but
not limitation, a center can be added to the bow. In one embodiment
a bow is an additional piece of strip material that is attached to
the center of the bow to add a decorative element that covers the
thread or wire or other device fastening the center of the bow.
Another "finishing" detail could be attaching one or more clips to
the back of the bow to all easy attachment of the bow to objects,
including but not limited to hair, boxes, or other items to be
decorated. Attachment of the clips can be accomplished using
techniques such as adhesive, staples, glue, tape, any other
suitable fastener, and any combination thereof. Other
embellishments such as embroidery, rhinestones, and other
decorations can also be added to the bow. In addition, in order to
increase the hardiness of the bow and to reduce the possibility of
unintended movement of the ribbon loops, wrinkles, or other
undesirable characteristics, the completed bow can be baked and/or
starched. One or both of these techniques improves the ability of
the bow to retain the desired shape.
[0166] Another technique for "finishing" a bow made in accordance
with the present invention is to "stack" more than one bow into a
single bow. By way of example but not limitation, a "3Tone Basic
Bow" can be stacked with a "2 Tone Twist Bow" to create a single
bow with attractive characteristics. Other combinations can also be
made and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0167] It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain
words and phrases used in this patent document. The term "couple"
and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication
between two or more elements, whether or not those elements are in
physical contact with one another. The terms "include" and
"comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without
limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or. The phrases
"associated with" and "associated therewith," as well as
derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within,
interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or
with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with,
interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have,
have a property of, or the like.
[0168] While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and
generally associated methods, alterations and permutations of these
embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the
art. Accordingly, the above description of example embodiments does
not define or constrain this disclosure. Other changes,
substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing
from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as defined by the
following claims.
* * * * *