U.S. patent application number 12/661552 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-22 for nosho hair extensions and kit.
Invention is credited to Iris Turner.
Application Number | 20110226274 12/661552 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44646227 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110226274 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Turner; Iris |
September 22, 2011 |
Nosho hair extensions and kit
Abstract
Various embodiments of wefted hair extensions 132 using
individual hair strands 108 intertwined with each other to form a
wefted product with a cornrow braid 120 base or edge 124, one of
the two sides 123 of the cornrow braid 120 having at least one
groove housing a plurality of individual hair strands. The zone of
attachment is rendered invisible. The distal end is secured with a
knot or other method. The final product is then flipped over to its
non braided, seamless side. Installation is in pairs as parents
only, parents and children, or individual wefts scattered
throughout the wearer's head. A unique mirror image embodiment
places two parent embodiments adjacent to each other such that
their edges face each other, separated by a part line. The mirror
image embodiment solves hair and scalp imperfections and is
available as a hair kit. Embodiments can start right at the edges
of a hairline using my technique, even if the wearer is mostly
bald, has thinning hair 148, short hair, or has no hair
problems.
Inventors: |
Turner; Iris; (Plainsboro,
NJ) |
Family ID: |
44646227 |
Appl. No.: |
12/661552 |
Filed: |
March 19, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/201 ;
132/53 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41G 5/006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/201 ;
132/53 |
International
Class: |
A41G 5/00 20060101
A41G005/00 |
Claims
1. A wefted hair extension 132 comprising the steps of: a)
intertwining individual hair strands 108 directly with native hair
106 of a wearer and a braid means for providing at least one groove
122 along a side 123 of said braid means; b) inserting a plurality
of individual hair strands 108 into at least one of said grooves
122 whereby the zone of attachment is rendered invisible.
2. The method according to claim 1 wherein said braid means
comprises a cornrow braid 120.
3. The method according to claim 2 further comprising a braid spine
100.
4. The method according to claim 3 providing for a mirror image
part 142 wefted hair extension 132 comprising a left side parent
row 138, and right side parent row 140 whereby said mirror image
part 142 provides a natural look as if the wefted hair extension is
growing out of the wearer's scalp.
6. In combination, a finishing touch left side parent cornrow 138
and right side parent cornrow 140 wefted hair extensions 132 are
installed adjacent to each other, their edges 124 facing each other
at a common part line 104 wherein said left side parent cornrow 138
and right side parent cornrow 140 have a distal end 126.
7. The method according to claim 6 further comprising a braid
spine.
8. The method according to claim 6 having at least one left side
parent cornrow 138.
9. The method according to claim 6 comprising at least one right
side parent cornrow 140.
10. A wefted hair extension 132, comprising: a) a cornrow braid 120
base, b) said cornrow braid 120 base having a plurality of grooves
122 along its sides 123 whereby said grooves 122 are the result of
cornrow rotations 102, and c) means for providing individual hair
strands 108 to be attached through said grooves 122.
11. The hair extension according to claim 10 having a plurality of
individual hair strands 108 extending from said plurality of
grooves 122, whereby one side 123 of said cornrow braid 120 base
has said individual hair strands 108 extending from said cornrow
braid 120 base.
Description
[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
BACKGROUND
Prior Art
[0002] Supplemental hair additions, more commonly known as hair
extensions, have been worn since Egyptian pharaohs and queens wore
a form of glorified hair adornment: painted individual hair
strands. To this present day women and some men have adorned their
head with manes of luxurious hair extensions to feel glamorous and
confident, whether they have existing flaws or not. Hair and scalp
problems of thinning hair, short hair, receding hair line, and bald
spots, and coarse texture encourage people to seek hair replacement
and hair addition methods. The most common hair addition methods
add length, volume, or both. Regardless of method used, the end
user or wearer has consistently been requesting a more natural
looking hair extension that is also healthy on the hair and scalp.
The most common methods are glued and sewn hair extensions.
[0003] Glue used with weft and strand methods is harmful to a
wearer's native hair and scalp. Sewing methods are more secure than
glue methods, also known as bonding, and fusion. Sewing methods
last longer than glue methods. However, sewing methods look less
natural. Sewing methods are more time consuming to install, and
during removal of the thread, the native hair of the wearer is cut
by accident. Additional disadvantages of the glue and sewing
methods are that glue causes substantial hair loss to the wearer.
The Inventor has found that glue methods can fall off in warm
temperatures, and so can weft tracks when sewn loosely.
[0004] However, regardless of the solutions that the new inventions
have provided, new disadvantages and short comings have been added,
and some problems are still unsolved.
[0005] Unnatural looking hair extension methods still exist at the
scalp and crown level. Any hair extension methods can look great
from a back view. However, the Inventor has found that the real
challenge is the art of creating and installing a more natural,
more believable crown area. People have traveled to a different
State or continent to have the latest more natural hair extension
technique installed. With licensing, franchising, and training,
more people can benefit from a more natural, healthier, hair
extension method in their own locale.
Partial Hair Extensions--Crown of a Wearer's Head, Combing Native
Hair Over Extensions:
[0006] Caucasian and Asian native hair texture closely matches
readily available commercial hair. On the other hand, primarily
Women of Color and to a lesser extent, some Caucasian, and Asian
persons are forced to apply a chemical perm. Glue and sewing
methods offer little help to balding individuals.
[0007] The common method is to leave some of a person's own hair
out at the front hairline. However, for people with areas of bald
patches or thinning hair 148, there is no hair present at a balding
or bald spot 154 to comb over or camouflage the tell tale obvious
sign that a commercial weft extension was installed.
SUMMARY
[0008] In accordance with the various embodiments a welted hair
extension 132 comprises a cornrow braid 120 having at least one
groove 122 housing individual hair strands 108 at one of its two
sides 123 of the cornrow braid 120, and the zone of attachment
rendered invisible.
ADVANTAGES
[0009] Accordingly several advantages of one or more aspects are as
follows: to provide a hair extension that camouflages the braids,
that protects the wearer's native hair, that can be installed as a
partial, or full head hair extension, that can be installed in
serial overlapping wefts, in pairs, or where needed, that looks
natural, that can be sold as a kit, that camouflages imperfections
such as baldness, thinning hair 148, and short hair, that can be
worn by women and some men, that does not require first chemically
relaxing the native hair, and that is durable. Other advantages of
one or more aspects will be apparent from a consideration of the
drawings and ensuing description.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
[0010] The term "commercial hair strands" is used generally
throughout the present disclosure to differentiate between loose
bulk hair that can be purchased and hair that is growing from a
wearer's scalp.
[0011] The term "native hair" and "native hair of a wearer" are
used interchangeably throughout the present disclosure to describe
hair that is growing out of the scalp of a wearer.
[0012] The term "parent cornrow" is used generally throughout the
present disclosure to describe an initial cornrow for any side of
the head, left or right.
[0013] The terms "left side (parent) cornrow" and "right side
(parent) cornrow are used throughout the present disclosure to
describe the final direction of the flipped over wefted hair
extensions.
[0014] The term "braid branch" is used generally throughout the
present disclosure to describe one of the three sections used in a
braiding or cornrow braiding process.
[0015] The term "part line" is used generally throughout the
present disclosure to describe a line created at the scalp by a
comb, for example.
[0016] The term "part" or "hair part" is used interchangeably
throughout the present disclosure to describe a head of hair that
has been combed to the left and right of a part line.
[0017] The term "wefted hair extension" and "wefted product" are
used interchangeably throughout the present disclosure to describe
individual commercial, or store bought, hair strands that are
cornrow braided by intertwining with either each other, and/the
wearers own hair. A new product is formed that is a custom, two
dimensional, seamless, and uninterrupted.
[0018] A "braid spine" describes thin strands of individual
commercial synthetic or human hair strands that are added at the
beginning of the cornrow braiding process.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0019] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a braid spine 100, and
horizontally placed individual hair strands 108 in readiness to be
inserted under the braid spine. The parted line is for a full head
installation.
[0020] FIG. 1b is a perspective view of a left side, as well as a
left side parent cornrow 138 installation for a full head, or nape
only installation, tied with a knot 128 at the distal end 126.
[0021] FIG. 1c is a perspective view of a mirror image part 142
shows the braided side flipped over 134.
[0022] FIG. 1d is a perspective view of a completed mirror image
part 142 installation, with the edges 124 of the wefted hair
extensions 132 facing each other at a common part line 104.
[0023] FIG. 1e is a perspective view of a no part wefted
installation 146.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a horizontal installation.
The bottom grooves 122 were used.
[0025] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of a flipped up curved
installation 152 for a ponytail style. The lines are continued in a
spiral direction as shown in FIG. 6.
[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a horizontal installation
with its braided side flipped over 134.
[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an installation in a curved
direction that shows the cornrows. Serial single wefts can be
created, leaving some of the wearer's hair between wefts.
[0028] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a serial overlapping 156
vertical installation.
[0029] FIG. 6 is an aerial perspective view of another installation
in a curved direction.
[0030] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of how to begin the article
of manufacture.
[0031] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the completed article of
manufacture.
[0032] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a possible installation
method for the article of manufacture.
[0033] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of another direction of
installation for all installations.
[0034] FIG. 11 shows a top plan view of a person thinning hair and
a bald spot.
DRAWINGS
Reference Numerals
TABLE-US-00001 [0035] 100 braid spine 102 cornrow rotation 104 part
line 105 row 106 native hair 108 individual hair strands 108 110
tips [of commercial hair 112 blunt ends strands] 114 left hand-
hair practitioner 116 right hand- hair practitioner 118 hair clip
120 cornrow braid 122 groove 123 side [of cornrow] 124 edge of weft
126 distal end 128 knot 130 remaining hair 132 wefted hair
extension 134 braided side flipped over 135 non braided side of
weft 136 child rows 138 left side parent cornrow 140 right side
parent cornrow 142 mirror image part 144 hair line 146 no part
wefted installation 148 thinning hair 150 curved and flipped up 154
bald spot installation 156 serial overlapping rows 158 spiral
wefted installation 160 possible installation method- 162 pin
article. 164 alternating apex installation 166 loop 168 tip of
braid spine 170 article of manufacture 172 pinhead
Detailed Description of the First Embodiments
FIGS. 1-6, 10, and 11
[0036] The present invention comprises various embodiments of a
wefted hair extension and methods of attaching and removing the
hair extensions to and from the native hair of a wearer of a hair
extension. The hair extensions eliminate a two-step process
required for hair weaving, wherein a braid(s) must be formed, and
then the hair extension(s) is/are attached to the braid(s) in a
subsequent operation. Moreover, removal of the present hair
extensions may be accomplished by a wearer by merely unbraiding the
braided hair to allow the individual hair strands to separate from
the natural hair as it is unbraided. No tedious cutting of
attachment threads, removal of adhesives, etc., is required with
the embodiments.`
[0037] A first embodiment of the NoSho hair extensions comprises a
finishing hair extension. The wefted hair extension 132 that is
formed within the body of two part lines 104, forming a row 105.
The part from the crown of a wearer's head to the nape of the neck
is in preparation for a full head serial overlapping 156
installation. The embodiments have a base edge 124 portion or
underside comprising a cornrow braid 120. The wefted hair
extensions 132 have a plurality of individual hair strands 108
emanating from one of its two sides 123. Specifically, the
plurality of individual hair strands 108 emanate out of the grooves
122 formed by the cornrow rotations 102. The embodiments start at
the very beginning of a part line 104, or lack thereof. Where there
is a bald spot 154, hair from an adjoining area is used to commence
the braid.
[0038] The individual hair strands 108 are integrally cornrow
braided 120 with the native hair 106 of a wearer at the scalp. A
small portion of the wearer's native hair 106 is added to the
commercial hair with every cornrow braid 120 rotation, all along
the length of a row 105. Concurrently as the native hair 106 and
individual hair strands are braided together, approximately a pinky
sized or larger quantity of individual hair strands 108 are
inserted into a side 123 of the cornrow braid 120 after each
cornrow rotation 102. The pinky sized or larger quantity of
individual hair strands 108 is continuously and progressively
inserted all along one side of a cornrow braid 120, and the joining
appears invisible.
[0039] The embodiments thus provide at least one left directional
or left side parent cornrow 138 at a part line 104--with or without
corresponding left side child rows 136. The embodiments also
provide for at least one right directional or right side parent
cornrow 140 at a part line 104--with or without corresponding right
side child rows 136. The present wefted hair extension 132 is a
new, uninterrupted, seamless, two dimensional, wefted product that
has a cornrow braid 120 at the base of one of its two sides.
Crown Area--Mirror Image Installation 142 FIGS. 1c, and 1d:
[0040] A wefted hair extension 132 is installed directly adjacent
another wefted hair extension 132, but in an opposing direction.
More specifically, two parent cornrows 20--a left side parent
cornrow 138 and a right side parent cornrow 140 are installed on
opposing sides of their common or shared part line 104. Each wefted
parent cornrow 138, 140, has individual hair strands 108 emanating
from its edge 124 or base. The edges 124 of the wefted hair
extensions 132 face each other, separated by the shared part line
104. When both wefted hair extension 132s are flipped over to their
non-braided side 134, the two wefted extensions are mirror images
of each other. A common or shared part line 104 separates the two
wefted hair extensions 132.
[0041] The mirror image part 138, 140 wefted hair extensions 132
appear to be growing out of the wearer's scalp. This is the case
even when the location of installation is originally mostly full of
bald spots 154, is thinning 148, or has healthy hair.
[0042] The mirror image part 142 embodiment serves as a camouflage
to hide tell tale signs left behind by other hair extension
methods. Such methods include the use of clamps, tubes, rings,
adhesives, glues, sealants, tracks, comb clamps, snaps, clips, and
such. This natural looking embodiment has proven to be valuable to
the hair industry. The following describes how the mirror image
part 142 and no part embodiments are installed:
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Right Side Parent Cornrow 140/Initial Cornrow 120 for Right Side of
the First Embodiment
[0043] A part line 104 is created. A second part line is created
slightly removed from the first part line 104. Approximately three
cornrow rotations 102 are formed using a thin quantity of
commercial hair to form a braid spine 100. Next, a small quantity
of individual commercial hair strands, approximately one size of a
pinky finger or larger, is held together at its blunt ends 112.
[0044] These individual hair strands are then placed horizontally
across the right side parent cornrow 140, just North of the last
formed cornrow rotation 102. The blunt ends 112 face toward West,
or toward the left hand 114 of a hair practitioner. These blunt
ends 112 slightly extend beyond the left parent cornrow 138 by
approximately three to five inches. The tips 110 of the commercial
hair face toward East, or toward the right hand 116 of a hair
practitioner.
[0045] Next, the blunt ends 112 that extend approximately three to
five inches to the left of the right side parent cornrow 140 are
added to the left braid branch. The combined blunt ends and left
braid branch are then added to the middle braid branch, leaving the
tips 110 of the loose strands of bulk commercial hair to hang
freely. This new middle braid branch is then moved over to the
right and becomes a right braid branch, while the previous right
braid branch becomes a middle braid branch.
[0046] This process is repeated with each and every rotation of a
cornrow braid 120 process, integrally as the hair is braided,
continuously along the entire length of the right side parent
cornrow 140. The resultant wefted hair extension 132 is then turned
over or flipped over 134 to reveal the other side--the non-braided
side 135 that appears to be naturally growing out of the scalp of
the wearer, even when that location was originally bald, partly
bald, or had normal healthy native hair 106. The new hair extension
is an uninterrupted, fully wefted product that is also two
dimensional.
[0047] Any child rows 136 receive commercial hair inserted into the
cornrow braid 120 in the same direction as their respective parent
cornrows 138, 140. This is the case when adding or joining native
hair 106 with curly or wavy hair. Child rows 136 can be wefted in
an opposing direction than their respective parent cornrows 138,
140.
[0048] Each embodiment may have several child rows 136, or no child
row, several parent cornrows 138, 140, or only one parent cornrow
138, 140 to complete either a crown only installation, or a full
head installation. Alternatively, each embodiment may have no
designation at all. Wefted hair extensions do not need parent
cornrows 138, 140, or child cornrows 136. A no part 146 wefted hair
extension can be installed instead.
[0049] At the end of each cornrow braid 120 remaining hair 130 is
secured by braiding down approximately three rotations of a single
braid, and then securing the braid with a knot 128.
[0050] Optionally, a rubber band can be used to tie the loose ends
of each cornrow braid 120. The method used depends on the texture
and length of a person's hair. Any child rows 136 or inner rows
that the parent cornrow 140 overlap may be installed in the same
direction as the right side parent cornrow 140, or not.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
No Part 146 Installation of the First Embodiments FIG. 1e
[0051] Alternatively, the entire installation of the wefted hair
extension 132s may be completed in one direction. To install the
NoSho wefted hair extensions 132 without a part, one direction only
can be used. For example, the grooves 122 can all have hair
emanating from the right side of a cornrow braid 120--right side
(parent). Or, from the left side of the grooves 122 of a cornrow
braid 120--left side (parent). The cornrow braids 120 are installed
either with thinner rows, thicker hair strands, or curly hair.
Alternatively, both a left parent cornrow 138 and a right side
parent cornrow 140 can be installed. Additionally, curly hair may
be used to circumvent the need to create thinner rows. Therefore,
it is not necessary to install wefted hair extensions 132 close to
each other such that they overlap excessively. Otherwise, the
method is the same as the first embodiment.
[0052] For a full head installation, with no bald spots 154, a part
line 104 is created starting at a wearer's hair line to a
predetermined distance on the wearer's head. Next, another part
line 104 is created, a slight distance away from the first part
line 104. Thus, a row 105 [of hair] has been created. The direction
of the line can be straight or curved. The rest of the native hair
106 is secured away from the row 105 to be braided with hair clips
118.
[0053] A braid spine 100 consisting of a few strands or thin
quantity of individual commercial hair, approximately 8-20 strands,
are incorporated with the native hair 106 of the wearer. A cornrow
braid 120 is started at the beginning of a row 105 with
approximately three to five cornrow rotations 102. Next, individual
commercial hair strands 108, approximately the size of a pinky
finger or larger, are held together at their blunt ends 112. Next,
these individual hair strands are placed horizontally across the
left side parent cornrow 138, slightly North of the last formed
cornrow rotation 102. These horizontally placed hair strands 108
have their blunt ends 112 facing toward East, or toward the right
hand 116 of a hair practitioner, and extend beyond the left side
parent cornrow 138 by approximately three to five inches. The tips
110 of the individual hair strands 108 face toward West, or toward
the left hand 114 of a hair practitioner.
[0054] Next, the blunt ends 112 that extend approximately three to
five inches to the right of the left side parent cornrow 138 are
moved under the side of a right braid branch. It is then added to a
middle braid branch, leaving the tips 110 of the commercial hair to
hang free. This addition of the blunt ends 112 to the middle braid
branch forms the new middle braid branch. This new middle braid
branch is then moved over a left braid branch while simultaneously
moving the left braid branch to the middle position as the new
middle braid branch. The middle braid branch is moved over the
right braid branch while simultaneously moving the right braid
branch to the middle position.
[0055] The process is repeated: another small quantity of
individual commercial hair strands are inserted into the side 123
of the cornrow braid 120 by laying it horizontally across the
cornrow braid 120. Next the blunt ends 112 are turned around a
right braid branch such that it meets the middle braid branch.
Together, this new middle braid branch is moved over the left braid
branch while simultaneously moving the left braid branch under the
new left braid branch. Continuing, the left braid branch is moved
to the middle position as the new middle braid branch. The middle
braid branch is moved over the right braid branch while
simultaneously moving the right braid branch to the middle
position.
[0056] The above process is repeated with each and every cornrow
rotation 102, hair strands inserted continuously into each groove
122 along the entire length of the left side parent cornrow 138. At
the distal end 126 of the cornrow braid 120, approximately three
rotations are made to create a single braid. Next, a few strands of
the remaining hair 130 are wrapped around the braid and secured
with a knot 128. A rubber band may be used instead.
Operation
First Embodiment
[0057] The wefted hair extensions 132 are flipped over 134 to their
non braided side 135. These embodiments are easily removed by the
wearer, merely by unraveling the distal end 126 of the braid.
Approximately 30 minutes time lapses for take down. There is no
accidental cutting of native hair 106 as occurs with sewing
methods, and no harmful results as occurs with glues, and small
fasteners.
[0058] Various methods of securing and removing the present NoSho
wefted hair extensions 132 to and from the native hair 106 of the
wearer are also disclosed herein. These methods all include the
steps for creating custom wefted hair extensions 132 without any
tools. Essentially, these embodiments are an alternative to
commercially sold weft extensions. These embodiments provide a
camouflage to hide commercial weft tracks anywhere, including the
crown area of a wearer's head. Additionally, my embodiments are an
alternative method of hair extensions currently used by Caucasians
and Asians.
Detailed Description of Second Embodiment
Article of Manufacture: FIGS. 7, 8, and 9
[0059] A second embodiment is an article of manufacture 170 and
hair kit that has a finished beginning, and distal end 126.
Individual hair strands 108 are intertwined directly with each
other, rendering the joining invisible. A new product is formed--a
wefted hair extension 132. A hair kit can contain at least two
finishing touch hair extensions, a left side parent 138, and a
right side parent cornrow 140.
[0060] A pin 162 such as a long sewing pin or other thin rigid
structure that can be secured into or onto a stable base for
support such as a long nail with no pin head 172 can be used.
Alternatively, the pin 162--like structure may be of sufficient
length so as to prevent the looped 166 hair strands from sliding
off. A cushion or the arm of an arm chair will do. Otherwise, the
pin 162--like structure may be secured into a stationery object
such as a block of heavy wood, metal, or other stable surface.
Article of Manufacture--Left Side (Parent) Cornrow Braid 120:
[0061] Approximately 20-40 strands or a thin quantity of commercial
hair is used to form a braid spine 100. The braid spine 100 is then
looped around any thin rigid, stationary object such as a large
sewing pin 162. One or two cornrow rotations 102 are made. Next, a
small quantity of individual commercial hair strands approximately
the width of a pinky finger or larger is held together at its blunt
ends 112 then placed horizontally across the cornrow braid 120, and
North of the last formed cornrow rotation 102. The blunt ends 112
face toward West, or toward the left hand 114 of a hair
practitioner, and slightly extend beyond the cornrow braid 120 by
approximately three to five inches. The tips 110, of the commercial
hair, face toward East, or toward the right hand 116 of the hair
practitioner.
[0062] Next, the blunt ends 112 that extend approximately three to
five inches to the left of the cornrow braid 120 are added to the
left braid branch, and added to the middle braid branch, leaving
the tips 110 of the individual hair strands 108 to hang freely.
This new middle braid branch is then moved over to the right and
becomes a right braid branch, while the previous right braid branch
becomes a middle braid branch.
[0063] This process is repeated with each and every rotation of a
cornrow 120 braiding process continuously along the entire length
of the cornrow 120. At the end of a cornrow 120, the remaining hair
130 is tied with a few strands of the commercial hair. However,
additionally, the knot 128 is sealed with glue. The pin 162 is then
released from the wefted hair extension 132. Alternatively, the end
can be glued, and the remaining hair 130 left over from braiding
sheared off with a razor, scissors, or suitable sharp instrument.
The new hair extension product formed is an uninterrupted, fully
wefted hair extension 132 product that is two dimensional with a
non-braided side 135, and a braided side 140.
Article of Manufacture--Right Side (Parent) Cornrow Braid 140:
[0064] After lassoing the sewing pin 162 or nail-like structure,
and braiding with one or two cornrow rotations 102, the same
process is followed as for installing a right side (parent) row of
the first embodiment. The process continues by placing individual
hair strands across the last formed cornrow rotation 102. The pin
162-like structure can be removed from its base if entrenched.
Alternatively, if the pin-like structure has no pin head 172, the
finished embodiment can be slipped off the top of the pin-like
structure.
[0065] The article of manufacture can be packaged as a hair
extension kit.
Operation
Second Embodiments FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, Operation, Article of
Manufacture
[0066] While the wefted hair extension of the embodiment is
illustrated as a relatively short and narrow section, it should be
noted that the wefted hair extensions and other hair extensions
disclosed herein would typically include hair strands having
significantly greater length, e.g., eight or more inches, and wefts
having the standard span of approximately thirty-six to eighty-four
inches.
[0067] A part line 104 is created at the crown and a finishing
touch hair extension is installed on each side of the part line
104. Namely, left side parent row 138, and right side parent row
140 are installed. The beginning end is placed at the hair line
144, and the distal end 126 faces away from the wearer's hair line.
The crown installation is as shown in FIG. 1d.
[0068] The article of manufacture embodiments may be attached to
the wearer's head in any manner used to attach commercial weft
extensions as discussed earlier, such as an attachment comb. The
attachment comb may further be secured by sewing onto the edge 124
of the braided side of the wefted hair extension 132.
[0069] The article of manufacture wefted hair extension 132 kit may
contain a bang. A bang for the article of manufacture can have at
least one attachment comb or a hair clip that is sewn onto the
braided side or edge 124 of the bang piece. Alternatively glue, or
both glue and sewing can be used to secure the bang to the comb.
The tip 168 of the braid spine 100 can be tucked away under the
braid edge 124. Alternatively, the tip 168 of the braid spine 100
can be employed to stitch the comb or clip in place.
[0070] Also, the kit may further contain left side parent 138, and
right side parent 140 wefted hair extensions 132 or mirror image
part 142 finishing touch wefted hair extensions 132 to hide
imperfections. The wefted hair extension 132 kit may further
contain a bang, and enough wefted hair extensions for a full head
installation. Additionally, a separate kit could sell the mirror
image part 142 finishing touch embodiments.
[0071] At least one comb can be attached along the braided edge
124.
[0072] Alternatively, braiding of the clients own hair can be
eliminated altogether by simply creating a horizontal line and
attaching with blanket stitches to the native hair 106. To install
the wefted hair extensions 132 at the nape of the neck without
first cutting the wefted extensions a zigzag overlapping series 162
can be installed as shown in FIG. 9.
[0073] Alternatively, any instrument that can cut and seal can be
used so cut the wefted hair extensions 132 to the desired
length.
[0074] When packaged, the article of manufacture may have the
standard two long lengths of hair extensions in addition to at
least one left side parent, and one right side parent wefted hair
extensions 132 for use at the crown of a wearer's head.
Alternatively, when packaged, the article of manufacture will offer
only the two left and right side cornrow 120 wefted hair extensions
32. This is ideal for those who wish to hide imperfections of hair,
and scalp, or of other hair extension methods.
[0075] The above methods are presently contemplated for the
embodiments, however other values, dimensions, lengths, and
directions can be used, some of which are already stated above.
Additional Embodiments, Ramifications, and Operation
Additional Embodiment Relate to the First Embodiments
FIGS. 2a, 4, 6, and 10
[0076] A bang can be installed. Approximately one inch of native
hair is used, and the tips 110 of the hair strands are pulled over
the cornrow braids toward the wearer's face.
[0077] Another embodiment has short, vertical cornrow braids 120,
at least a quarter of an inch in length or height. This additional
embodiment can replace harmful bonding methods prevalently used by
Caucasian and Asian women--FIG. 5.
[0078] Another embodiment has short, horizontal cornrow braids 120,
at least a quarter of an inch in length or height. This additional
embodiment can replace harmful bonding methods prevalently used by
Caucasian and Asian women. FIG. 5 gives a good idea of how these
short, vertical wefted extensions would look like.
[0079] Another embodiment is circular in shape, and traverses the
circumference of the wearer's head--FIGS. 2a, and 6. This circular
installation is great for ponytail styles. FIG. 6 shows that the
bottom grooves 122 of the cornrow braid 120 were installed with the
individual hair strands 108. FIG. 2a shows the operation of the
braided side being flipped over 134 the braids and up into a
ponytail. Alternatively, some of a wearer's native hair 106 may be
left out at the crown to create bang. Additionally, the hair can be
worn down at the nape of the neck.
[0080] Installation can use circular, or a mixture of parallel and
angular part lines 104.
[0081] Alternatively the wefted hair extensions may be installed to
cross horizontally over small or large bald spots 154. The
outwardly-facing grooves of the cornrow braid 120 can house the
individual hair strands 108, toward the face, ears, and neck--FIG.
11. Alternatively, the installation can be in a diagonal
direction.
[0082] Another embodiment starts at one temple and ends at the
other temple in a `U` or moon shape.
[0083] Another embodiment is circular in shape, and traverses the
circumference of the wearer's head.
[0084] Alternatively the hair extensions may be installed facing
toward the face, ears, and neck.
[0085] Another embodiment relates to a bang. Approximately one inch
of native hair is used, and the tips 110 of the hair strands are
pulled over the cornrow braids toward the wearer's face.
Additional Embodiments Relate to the Second Embodiments
FIGS. 7, 8, and 9
[0086] During manufacture, and getting closer to a predetermined
distal end 126, fewer strands of individual hair strands can be
attached to create a thin distal end 126.
[0087] A comb or clip can be sewn onto the edge 124 of the braided
side of the wefted article of manufacture using needle and thread,
glue, or both.
[0088] The above methods are presently contemplated for the
embodiments, however other values, dimensions, lengths, and
directions can be used, some of which are already stated above.
[0089] Another article of manufacture inserts items of interest to
certain groups, such as gold thread to add more flair.
Alternatively, ornaments are incorporated into the wefted hair
extension 132.
[0090] Another article of manufacture is easier to make, use, and
is more affordable.
[0091] Although the description above contains many specificities,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
embodiments but as merely providing illustrations of some of
several embodiments. For example, the wefted hair extensions can
use synthetic hair as opposed to human hair. Installation can be in
any direction based on purpose of installation; only one groove can
house the individual hair strands as in the case for extremely
short rows, or there can be a series of grooves for longer length
wefted hair extensions.
[0092] Thus the scope of the embodiments should be determined by
the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the
examples given.
ADVANTAGES
[0093] From the description above, a number of advantages of the
embodiments become evident:
[0094] (a) The embodiments are flipped over and do not show the
cornrow braids.
[0095] (b) No strands of a wearer's hair can ever be accidentally
left out of the cornrow braids.
[0096] (c) 100% of a client's native hair is cocooned and protected
within each cornrow braid.
[0097] (d) The embodiments can be used for partial, as well as full
head hair extensions.
[0098] (e) The embodiments are a healthier alternative method of
hair extensions.
[0099] (f) The embodiments make commercial weft hair extensions
almost obsolete.
[0100] (g) The non-braided side appears to be growing out of a
wearer's scalp.
[0101] (h) The finished product appears to be growing out a
wearer's scalp.
[0102] (i) The embodiments provide a finishing touch.
[0103] (j) Several embodiments can be sold as a kit.
[0104] (k) The embodiments seamlessly and completely cover hair and
scalp imperfections.
[0105] (l) A hair part can be created at an area of hair loss even
if that area is completely bald.
[0106] (m) The embodiments are wearable by women and some men.
[0107] (n) A majority of the embodiments have universal appeal and
use for all hair textures.
[0108] (o) The embodiments provide a more sophisticated look.
[0109] (p) The embodiments look naturally occurring.
[0110] (q) The embodiments provide a seamless, continuous, full
weft.
[0111] (r) The embodiments do not require first chemically
processing the wearer's native hair.
[0112] (s) The embodiments provide more control over the density or
thickness of the extension.
[0113] (t) The embodiments provide more control over creating
highlights and/or lowlights.
[0114] (u) The wearer does not have to first chemically relax their
hair prior to installation.
[0115] (v) The method of the first embodiment has proven to grow
hair and protect the scalp.
[0116] (w) The installation lasts several months.
[0117] (x) The method is economical compared to some hair extension
methods.
[0118] (y) Highlights and lowlights can be installed concurrently,
saving a step.
[0119] (z) Different lengths can be used concurrently, saving a
step from styling to cutting.
[0120] (aa) Hair practitioners and stylists can install the
embodiments with minimal instructions.
[0121] (bb) The embodiments are an acceptable solution for hair and
scalp issues.
[0122] (cc) The embodiments can be installed at any location, and
in any direction.
[0123] (dd) The embodiments provide a more natural looking crown
area.
[0124] (ee) The embodiments are installable in small or large areas
of a wearer's head.
[0125] (ff) The embodiments can replace areas of missing hair.
[0126] (gg) The embodiments add volume, and length.
[0127] FIGS. 1d, 2a, 3, and 5 show wefted hair extensions 132 that
have been flipped over to their non-braided side 135, while FIGS.
1c, 1e, 2, and 4 show wefted hair extensions 132 that have not been
flipped over to their non-braided side 135. FIG. 6 can be flipped
over to its non-braided side 135. These wefted hair extensions 132
can be used to hide imperfections of a wearer's hair and scalp, as
well as imperfections such as weft tracks and tubes of other
methods.
CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE
[0128] Accordingly, the reader will see that the wefted NoSho hair
extensions of the various embodiments can be used to camouflage
imperfections of the hair and scalp, as well as imperfections left
behind by other hair extension methods. Additionally, the mirror
image part 142 has a desired outcome of looking natural, and not
fake.
Object of the Embodiments
[0129] It is an object of the embodiments to directly intertwine
individual hair strands together.
[0130] It is also an object to directly intertwine individual hair
strands at the base of native hair.
[0131] It is further an object of the embodiments to provide a more
durable hair replacement.
[0132] Another object of the embodiments is to provide a method
with more universal appeal.
[0133] Another object of the embodiments is to provide a healthier
method of hair extensions.
[0134] Yet another object of the embodiments is to provide
installation at any location of a wearer's head.
[0135] Still another object of the embodiments is to provide
installation in any direction.
[0136] Still yet another object of the embodiments is to provide
installation at small or large areas.
[0137] Another object is to provide a welted hair extension that
can be installed at anywhere.
[0138] Another object is to provide coverage for normal, and
problem hair and scalp.
[0139] The following paragraphs discuss related art, and expound
the differences and distinctions from the present embodiments:
[0140] U.S. Pat. No. 2,621,663 issued on Dec. 16, 1952 to Christina
M. Jenkins, titled "Permanently Attaching Commercial Hair to Live
Hair," describes a loom-like weaving method of attaching loose
unwefted hair to the native hair, using a series of cords or thread
which are intermittently woven with the wearer's native hair, then
with commercial hair. Unlike the Jenkins method, the present method
inserts individual hair strands 108 directly to the base of the
native hair of a wearer without the use of any tools. Additionally,
the Jenkins method does not describe installation at the edges of a
wearer's hair line, nor from the hair line toward the crown of a
wearer's head. Furthermore, the Jenkins method does not insert
individual hair strands into grooves 122 on the side 123 of a
cornrow braid 120. Furthermore, the Jenkins method has the same
disadvantages of other methods already discussed.
[0141] U.S. Pat. No. 2,865,380, issued on Dec. 23, 1958 to Princess
Mitchell, titled "Hairpieces And Method Of Hair Preparation,"
describes a two step process whereby a series of horizontal part
lines are created for the purposes of cornrow braiding at the scalp
and throughout a wearer's hair. The Mitchell method suffers from
the problem that all sewn weft hair extensions have, which includes
the problem of accidentally cutting the native hair of the wearer
upon removing the thread used for stitching the weft. Furthermore,
the Mitchell method requires the assistance of a person or hair
practitioner to remove the stitching, whereas the embodiments can
be uninstalled by the wearer herself or himself by simply
unraveling the distal end of a cornrow braid. Furthermore, the
Mitchell method does not insert individual hair strands into
grooves 122 on the side 123 of a cornrow braid 120. Even
furthermore, in contrast to the Mitchell method, the first
embodiment does not require the use of any tools during
installation.
[0142] U.S. Pat. No. 3,280,826, issued on Oct. 25, 1966 to
Christina M. Jenkins, titled "Hair Piece And Method Of Making And
Permanently Attaching Same," is another method that does not use
braids or cornrows for the installation of hair extensions. The
Jenkins method describes commercial weft extensions secured by
fastener clips stitched thereto and attached to the native hair of
a wearer. This method allows temporary installation and removal.
However, the clips are bulky and uncomfortable. Generally, this
method must be removed to shampoo hair, or to go to sleep.
Additionally, fastener clips cannot be worn for extended periods of
time. Hair care and maintenance require extra care so as not to
drag down the clips progressively lower than originally installed,
causing hair to snag on the metal clips and tear the native
hair.
[0143] U.S. Pat. No. 3,295,534, issued on Jan. 3, 1967 to Jess
Dorkin, titled "Hair Thickening Method," is another method that
does not use braids or cornrows for the installation of hair
extensions. The Dorkin method describes a method of thickening the
hair of a wearer by--permanently installing individual strands or
groups of hair strands that are bonded with the aid of an adhesive
agent. This method is time consuming compared to the present
embodiments. Additionally, this method suffers from the same
harmful problems to the scalp and hair that most bonding methods
inflict on the native hair, which includes breakage from brushing
and combing, and permanent hair loss from the adhesive used in the
bonding process. Furthermore, the Dorkin method does not insert
individual hair strands into grooves 122 on the side 123 of a
cornrow braid 120. Even furthermore, hair care such as brushing, as
well as removal, requiring the use of harsh chemicals, also
contribute to the native hair of a wearer.
[0144] U.S. Pat. No. 4,372,330, issued on Feb. 8, 1983 to Charles
W. Nelson, titled "Method And Apparatus For Attachment Of Hair
Units," is another method that does not use braids or cornrow
braids for the installation of hair extensions. The Nelson method
describes a process whereby tufts of native hair are grouped
together and secured at their base by a filament wire that is
twisted about each group, forming successive groups of tufts that
are then secured using an adhesive. This intricate wire, glue, and
thread method suffers the same drawbacks as other glued or sewn
methods that are harmful to a wearer's scalp. Further, this wire,
glue, and thread method is clumpy and awkward at the scalp. This
method is the most labor intensive to install as well as to remove,
whereas the first embodiment is relatively easy to install and
remove. Also, present embodiments also do not use any tools that
reduce the comfort level of the wearer, unlike the Nelson method.
Furthermore, the Nelson method does not insert individual hair
strands into grooves 122 on the side 123 of a cornrow braid 120.
Even furthermore, this method requires assistance from a
professional to uninstall the unit, whereas the first embodiment
can be removed by the wearer within a minimum of 30 minutes by
simply unraveling the cornrow braids.
[0145] U.S. Pat. No. 4,372,330, issued on Feb. 8, 1983 to Charles
W. Nelson, titled "Method And Apparatus For Attachment Of Hair
Units," describes the use of thin wire, or filaments of wire that
are twisted about a small number of grouped strands of native hair,
and then secured with adhesive. Nelson does not disclose any actual
supplemental hair configuration or structure in his patent. The
problems associated with Nelson's method are the same as described
as with glued or sewn methods--these methods harm the native hair
and scalp. Furthermore, this method does not use individual hair
strands 108 and cornrows attached directly to the base of native
hair to create a wefted hair extension 132.
[0146] International Patent No. WO 87/5783, published on Oct. 8,
1987, titled "A Method Of And Apparatus For Styling Hair,"
describes the same invention as that described in the '029 U.S.
patent to the same inventor, discussed further above. The points
raised in that discussion are seen to apply here, as well.
[0147] German Patent No. 3,722,108, published on Jan. 12, 1989,
titled "Device For Attaching Artificial Hair To Natural Hair,"
describes (according to the drawings and English abstract) a small
cylindrical sleeve or clamp which is secured to the native hair of
the wearer, with a weft of hair having a cooperating mechanical
attachment device extending therefrom. The assembly is somewhat
related to that disclosed in the Barrington '867 U.S. patent,
discussed further above, in which a small heat shrink sleeve is
secured about a tuft of the native hair, and a plug forming the end
of a hair extension. While the '108 German Patent Publication
discloses the mechanical attachment of a complete weft of hair, no
disclosure is made of provision for a series of attachment strands
from the weft, for interweaving with the native hair. Furthermore,
the method does not insert individual hair strands into grooves 122
on the side 123 of a cornrow braid 120.
[0148] U.S. Pat. No. 4,830,029, issued on May 16, 1989 to Raymond
F. Bird, titled "Method Of And Apparatus For Styling Hair," is
another method that does not use braids or cornrows for the
installation of hair extensions. The Bird method describes a
commercial weft extension with a pocket formed at its bound edge or
`tape", having a wire attached to the aforementioned pocket for the
purposes of attaching to the native hair of a wearer. Consumers
object to this method because the pocket adds additional bulk to
the hair, causing discomfort to the wearer when sleeping, combing,
brushing, and shampooing.
[0149] Additionally, the wires can cause perforations at a wearer's
scalp, causing minor injuries. This process is time consuming and
laborious to install and remove, unlike the first embodiment.
Further, the Bird method requires a professional to uninstall,
whereas the first embodiment can be removed by the person
herself/himself, and within approximately thirty minutes.
Furthermore, the Bird method does not insert individual hair
strands into grooves 122 on the side 123 of a cornrow braid 120.
Even furthermore, this method is a direct opposite of the method of
the first embodiment that does not use any tools for installation,
let alone wire and tape.
[0150] U.S. Pat. No. 4,966,173, issued on Oct. 30, 1990 to Della L.
Russell, titled "Hairpiece For Compensation Of Hair Loss," is
another method that does not use braids or cornrows for the
installation of hair extensions. The Russell method describes a
head band having individual supplemental hair strands disposed
thereon that is easy both to wear and remove by a wearer. However
this temporary method is only intended to cover a small area of
baldness or thinning hair 148. It is deficient for the purposes of
covering up areas of baldness and thinning hair 148 that do not
conform to a predetermined linear area. Additionally, this method
is a hair extension method but only in the most minimalistic way,
being nothing more than a item to cover a very small area of bald
patches, or hair loss. The first embodiment on the other hand, can
be installed wherever desired, and is a permanent installation that
the wearer can shampoo, and treat generally as they would their
normal hair.
[0151] U.S. Pat. No. 5,072,745, issued on Dec. 17, 1991 to Byung J.
Cheh, titled "Hair Extension Process," describes the use of hot
melted adhesive to bond small groups of strands of supplemental
hair extensions to the native hair of the wearer. Cheh does not
disclose the use of any form of wefted hair extension 132 with his
process. The Cheh process, and the problems associated therewith,
is more closely related to the process described in the Dorkin '534
U.S. patent, described further above, than they are to the first
embodiment.
[0152] U.S. Pat. No. 5,107,867, issued on Apr. 28, 1992 to Mark C.
Barrington, titled "Process For Extending Human Hair," describes
the installation of a small plug to the ends of a relatively small
number of strands of supplemental hair. A heat shrink sleeve is
installed near the base of a relatively small number of strands of
the wearer's native hair, and the plug of the supplemental hair
group is placed in the heat shrink sleeve. The heat shrink sleeve
is then shrunk to grip the supplemental hair plug therein. This
technique results in the same problems as incurred with methods
wherein the supplemental hair is glued or mechanically fastened to
small tufts of the wearer's native hair, i.e. the difficulty in
combing or brushing out the hair when a large number of relatively
small nodules are installed therein. Also, while Barrington states
that the supplemental hair plugs may be removed by reheating them,
this is a job for a professional. Such a task could not be readily
accomplished by the wearer of the Barrington hair supplement.
[0153] U.S. Pat. No. 5,121,761, issued on Jun. 16, 1992 to Karen L.
Meister, titled "Method For Attaching Hair Extensions," describes
the use of a series of small sleeves which are crimped about
relatively small clumps or tufts of native hair of a wearer, near
the bases thereof. A weft hair extension is then sewn through the
bases of the tufts, using a needle and thread. The Meister method
eliminates the need to braid the native hair, but substitutes a
series of small crimped sleeves, which must be removed
professionally when the wearer wishes to remove the hair
extensions. The Meister system more closely resembles the
supplemental hair attachment method disclosed in the Barrington
'867 U.S. patent, discussed immediately above, than it does the
present supplemental hair attachment method.
[0154] U.S. Pat. No. 5,357,986, issued on Oct. 25, 1994 to Drucilla
W. Hargrett, titled "Hair Locking Process And Apparatus," describes
a braid assembly which is secured to tufts of the native hair of
the wearer, rather than braiding the native hair itself. The braid
attachment includes a series of small rings therein, with the weft
of supplemental hair also having a like series of rings. The weft
and braid rings are sewn together to secure the supplemental hair
weft to the braid attachment of the wearer. This process involves a
fair amount of time, as the braid material must be braided into the
native hair of the wearer before the weft hair extension can be
sewn to the rings of the braid. This ring-to-ring attachment is
relatively loose in comparison to the present wefted hair extension
132 attachment, and moreover cannot be removed by the wearer, due
to the need to determine the location of the attachment thread
precisely in order to cut it without damaging the native hair of
the wearer.
[0155] U.S. Pat. No. 5,551,452, issued on Sep. 3, 1996 to Eslie O.
Barlow, titled "Hairpiece With Adjustable Support Loop," describes
a loop having a series of hair tufts extending therefrom. The loop
has an adjustable circumference, but is still placed relatively
loosely upon the head. No method for positively attaching the loop
or supplemental hair to the natural hair of the wearer is
disclosed.
[0156] U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,298, issued on Nov. 19, 1996 to
Cassandra Hinton, titled "Apparatus And Method For Concealing
Attachments Of Hair Supplements," describes a relatively short and
narrow adhesive tape for concealing the braid line of a
conventional hair weave attachment braid, e.g., the weave
attachment braid as disclosed in the Mitchell '380 U.S. patent
discussed further above. The Hinton tape includes a covering of
relatively short hairs on the outer surface thereof, to camouflage
the underlying braid and weft attachment. The weft hair extension
disclosed in the Hinton U.S. patent is not closely related to the
first embodiment, as it does not disclose individual hair strands
inserted into a cornrow braid to form a seamless, wefted hair
extension directly onto the scalp of a wearer.
[0157] U.S. Pat. No. 5,740,819, issued on Apr. 21, 1998 to Janice
A. Hicks, titled "Process For Securing Supplemental Hair To The
Natural Hair Of An Individual," describes a relatively complex
process in which a weft hair extension is bound by sewing a series
of blanket stitches therein adjacent to one end thereof, with the
bound portion of the weft then being sewn into a previously formed
braid in the wearer's native hair. The Hicks method is quite
complex in comparison to the present method, and requires
considerably more time to complete. Moreover, the Hicks method
requires professional care in the removal of hair extensions
attached using her method, due to the need to carefully sever the
strands of thread securing the hair extensions to the braids
without damaging the native hair of the wearer. This is not a
problem with the present welted hair extensions 132 and method.
[0158] European Patent No. 876,773, published on Nov. 11, 1998,
titled "Method, Apparatus And Hair Extension Product Thereof,"
describes a method of forming hair weft extensions from loose locks
of hair, by applying a thermoplastic resin to the ends of the hair
strands and to seal them. The '773 patent Publication is primarily
directed to a tool for forming the hair in the desired shape and
sealing or adhesively attaching the common ends together. No
disclosure is made for attaching the completed wefts to the native
hair of the wearer, as described in the present disclosure.
[0159] British Patent No. 2,327,605, published on Feb. 3, 1999,
titled "Scalp Patch For Hair Extension," describes a patch having
hair extending from one surface for securing to the central area of
the scalp of a wearer. The edge of the patch is devoid of hair, and
provides a margin for sewing the patch to cornrow braids formed in
the native hair of the wearer. The Arogundade '605 patent
Publication further discloses the use of a plurality of parallel
cornrow braids formed in the native hair, and stitching one or more
lengths of weft hair extensions together in a sinusoidal
confirmation for greater fullness. However, no disclosure is made
by Arogundade of any provision for attachment strands extending
from the weft or bound edge of a hair extension, for interweaving
or intertwining into braids formed in the native hair, as provided
by the first embodiment.
[0160] U.S. Pat. No. 6,019,107, issued on Feb. 1, 2000 to Tatiana
L. Vermeer et al., titled "Detachable Hairpiece," describes a
barrette type device having a hair extension permanently attached
thereto and extending therefrom. The barrette clips onto the native
hair of the wearer, with the hair extension extending from the
barrette to provide the appearance of longer hair for the wearer.
No individual commercial hair strands forming a welted product
attached to the base of native hair integrally as individual
commercial hair strands are being cornrow braided is mentioned, as
described with the first embodiment. Clip hair extensions are
temporary and cannot be worn for extended periods of time. This
method suffers from the same disadvantages as the Jenkins 826
method.
[0161] U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,122, issued on Oct. 24, 2000 to Annie L.
Campbell et al., titled "Self Adhesive Hair Weft Extension And
Method Of Attaching Same," describes a weft hair extension having a
contact adhesive strip applied to the wefted or bound end of the
hair extension. A release strip is removed from the adhesive, and
the hair extension is adhesively attached to the native hair of the
wearer for use. The adhesive principle also results in damage to
the hair when the tape is removed, with at least some hair being
torn, broken, and/or pulled out by the roots. Campbell et al. do
not disclose a weft hair extension intertwining individual
commercial hair strands forming a wefted weave directly onto the
native hair, as is the present wefted hair extension 132.
Furthermore, the Campbell method does not insert individual hair
strands into grooves 122 on the side 123 of a cornrow braid
120.
[0162] U.S. Patent Publication No. 2001/35,192, published on Nov.
1, 2001, titled "Self Adhesive Hair Extension," describes a weft
hair extension and method of attachment which closely resemble
those describe in the '736 issued U.S. patent to the same Inventor,
described further above. No non-adhesive attachment method is
discussed by Townsend.
[0163] U.S. Patent Publication No. 2001/37,813, published on Nov.
8, 2001, titled, "Attachable Hair Extension," describes the use of
an adhesive strip disposed across the individual strands of a mass
of hair to form a weft hair extension. Some of the adhesive is
exposed between the individual hair strands 108. A release sheet is
removed from the adhesive, and the weft is applied to the hair or
scalp of the wearer, with the exposed adhesive between the hair
strands serving to secure the weft to the hair or scalp of the
wearer. This hair extension and method are more closely related to
the various adhesively applied hair extensions of the Campbell et
al. '122 and Townsend '736 U.S. patents and the Townsend '192 U.S.
patent Publication, than it is to the first embodiment with its
intertwining of individual commercial hair strands with the base of
native hair of the wearer while at the same time progressively
forming a new product, namely a wefted product.
[0164] U.S. Pat. No. 6,405,736, issued on Jun. 18, 2002 to Valerie
Townsend, titled "Method Of Using A Self Adhesive Hair Extension,"
describes a hair extension and process which are very closely
related to the disclosure of the Campbell et al. '122 U.S. patent
discussed immediately above. Townsend differs from Campbell et al.
in that Townsend sews a strip of adhesive material to the wefted
end of the hair extension, and adhesively attaches her hair
extension to the scalp of the wearer, rather than to the hair, as
is the case with Campbell et al Townsend does not disclose a wefted
product formed by integrally braiding or cornrowing individual
strands of hair onto the base of a wearers native hair.
[0165] U.S. Pat. No. 6,446,636, issued on Sep. 10, 2002 to
Christine M. Vittallo, titled "Method Of Attaching Supplemental
Hair To Human Natural Hair," describes the application of a liquid
adhesive directly to the scalp or native hair of the wearer, and
then adhesively securing a weft of supplemental hair to the
adhesive area. This method is more closely related to the adhesive
attachment methods of the Campbell et al. '122 and Townsend '736
U.S. patents, than it is to the first embodiment that
simultaneously creates a wefted hair extension product by
intertwining individual commercial hair strands directly onto the
native hair.
[0166] U.S. Pat. No. 7,320,327, issued on Jan. 22, 2008 to Carol
Frazier describes a laborious method whereby a commercial weft
extension having attachment strands secured at its weft base, both
of which extend from the weft base in the same direction, has a
removable separator sheet between them. The method uses clips for
the purposes of fastening the base, or bound end of a weft
extension onto the uppermost part line of a horizontal section of
braidable native hair of a wearer. Next, the attachment strands are
pulled downward and incorporated into the cornrow braid
progressively along the length of the row of hair. After braiding,
the separator sheet is removed with some difficulty because of the
materials described. Then, the commercial weft is released and
allowed to fall down upon itself. To hide the weft tracks, the
method rolls the weft tracks or edges over upon themselves, and
then stitched in place with needle and thread. Consumers object to
wearing this method because weft tracks are rigid and bulky.
Additionally folding them upon themselves creates even more bulk
for the wearer to contend with, especially when sleeping. The
Frazier method has other disadvantages as described for commercial
wefts, and as per the Bird patent discussed above.
[0167] In addition to the above patents and patent publications, As
of late April of last year, when the embodiments were finalized and
test marketing began, the Inventor became aware of a possible
infringer. Several interested calls from many different States
including New Jersey confirm commercial viability. A printout of
our web page: www.upalmit.com is attached accordingly.
Additionally, the Inventor came across a braided hair extension
technique on www.braidsbybreslin.com, and kristenlock.com.
Printouts are attached accordingly.
[0168] The prior art is dissimilar to the embodiments and offers no
unexpected results. Additionally, the prior art teaches away from
various methods of the NoSho wefted hair extensions 132 such as: no
hair shorter than 18 inches can be used. Also, the prior art
teaches taking hair out of a cornrow braid all along a row.
Additionally, my embodiments looks more polished and mimic a more
natural looking head of hair, starting right at a hair line, or
lack thereof. The methods and embodiments are starkly dissimilar.
The two cannot be confused with each other. Therefore my technique
is novel over the prior art. Even furthermore, the prior art does
not offer the non surgical hair loss solutions of my method. The
prior art method does not anticipate or allow for providing such a
service because of its described limitations. Further, the prior
art method does not teach inserting individual hair strands into
grooves 122 on the side 123 of a cornrow braid 120.
[0169] Accordingly, and within timely fashion, letters patent are
being sought.
[0170] None of the above inventions and patents, taken either
singly, or in combination, is seen to describe the instant
embodiments as claimed. Thus, the reader will see that the
embodiments provide more reliable, more functional, more aesthetic,
yet economical installation that is readily available to any person
with any type of hair and scalp condition and/or hair length and
thickening needs. Thus, according to all of the above, a wefted
hair extension patent solving the aforementioned problems is
desired.
* * * * *
References