U.S. patent application number 14/865375 was filed with the patent office on 2016-01-14 for brush cover.
The applicant listed for this patent is Brigitte Kirkconnell-Shaughness. Invention is credited to Brigitte Kirkconnell-Shaughness.
Application Number | 20160007729 14/865375 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47752296 |
Filed Date | 2016-01-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160007729 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kirkconnell-Shaughness;
Brigitte |
January 14, 2016 |
BRUSH COVER
Abstract
A protective brush cover is described for use with a makeup
brush. In some versions, the protective brush cover comprises a
body and a closing feature. In some versions the protective brush
cover comprises a body, a lid, and a securing feature. In some
versions, the body is operable to hold the head of a makeup brush,
and the body may further have an opening such that the handle of
the makeup brush may extend through the opening.
Inventors: |
Kirkconnell-Shaughness;
Brigitte; (Grand Cayman, KY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kirkconnell-Shaughness; Brigitte |
Grand Cayman |
|
KY |
|
|
Family ID: |
47752296 |
Appl. No.: |
14/865375 |
Filed: |
September 25, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13617797 |
Sep 14, 2012 |
9167891 |
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14865375 |
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13267229 |
Oct 6, 2011 |
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13617797 |
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12941522 |
Nov 8, 2010 |
8061518 |
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13267229 |
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61258697 |
Nov 6, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
206/361 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 73/0071 20130101;
A46B 2200/1046 20130101; A46B 17/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A46B 17/04 20060101
A46B017/04 |
Claims
1. A brush cover for storing a makeup brush, comprising: a first
panel configured from flexible material; a second panel configured
from flexible material coupled to the first panel such that the
first panel is movable between a first position and a second
position relative to the second panel; a fastener configured to
selectably maintain the first panel in the first position relative
to the second panel; a pocket cooperatively defined by the first
and second panels when the first panel is in the first position,
the pocket having an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper
portion having a first width and the lower portion having a second
width, wherein the first width of the upper portion is larger than
the second width of the lower portion; wherein the first and second
panels define an opening in communication with the lower portion of
the pocket when the first panel is in the first position; and
wherein one or more of the first and second panels comprises a
retention portion, the retention portion configured to exert a
biasing force.
2. The brush cover of claim 1, wherein the fastener is positioned
proximate to the upper portion of the pocket.
3. The brush cover of claim 2, wherein the fastener is selected
from the group consisting of a snap, a button, a zipper, a magnetic
snap, a button snap, a hook-and-loop fastener, a clasp, and a
latch.
4. The brush cover of claim 1, comprising: a panel coupling,
wherein the panel coupling hingedly couples the first panel and the
second panel.
5. The brush cover of claim 1, wherein the retention portion
comprises an elastic member.
6. The brush cover of claim 5, wherein the elastic member is
coupled to the first panel and the second panel.
7. The brush cover of claim 5, wherein at least one of the first
panel and the second panel comprises the elastic member.
8. The brush cover of claim 1, wherein the first panel and the
second panel form a seam and the retention portion is positioned
proximate to the seam.
9. The brush cover of claim 1, wherein the first panel has
substantially the same configuration as the second panel.
10. The brush cover of claim 1, comprising an internal retention
device.
11. The brush cover of claim 10, wherein the internal retention
device is a loop.
12. The brush cover of claim 11, wherein the loop is
expandable.
13. The brush cover of claim 11, wherein the loop is flexible.
14. The brush cover of claim 11, wherein the loop is rigid.
15. The brush cover of claim 1, wherein the fastener is a
zipper.
16. The brush cover of claim 1, wherein the first position is a
closed position and the second position is an open position.
17. The brush cover of claim 4, wherein the panel coupling is
selected from the group consisting of glue, stitching, and
rivets.
18. The brush cover of claim 4, wherein the first panel comprises a
first side and a second side; wherein the second panel comprises a
first side and a second side; wherein the panel coupling is a hinge
coupled to the first side of the first panel and the first side of
the second panel; and wherein the fastener comprises a first
portion and a second portion, the first portion of the fastener is
coupled to the second side of the first panel and the second
portion of the fastener is coupled to the second side of the second
panel.
19. The brush cover of claim 4, further comprising a flexible
internal retention loop; wherein the first panel comprises a first
side and a second side; wherein the second panel comprises a first
side and a second side; wherein the panel coupling is coupled to
the first side of the first panel and the first side of the second
panel; and wherein the fastener is a zipper, the zipper comprises a
first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of
the zipper is coupled to the second side of the first panel and the
second portion of the zipper is coupled to the second side of the
second panel.
20. The brush cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible material is a
textile.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of prior, co-pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/617,797, filed Sep. 14, 2012, which
is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/267,229, filed Oct. 6, 2011, entitled "Brush Cover," which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/941,522, now
U.S. Pat. No. 8,061,518, filed Nov. 8, 2010, entitled "Brush
Cover," which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/258,697, filed Nov. 6, 2009, entitled
"Protective Brush Cover." The disclosures of which are each
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
FIELD
[0002] Versions of the present invention relate generally to
protective devices, and more particularly, to covering devices for
makeup applicators.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Makeup brushes are used to apply makeup, such as foundation
or various other powder forms of cosmetics, and come in a wide
variety of shapes, sizes, and configurations. These brushes
typically come packaged in a plastic cover to enclose the bristles
of the makeup brush to prevent damage to the bristles prior to sale
of the brush. Before use, the plastic cover is discarded as it is
generally unsuitable for later protecting the bristles of the
makeup brush. The plastic cover is generally a low quality material
that tightly binds the bristles of the brush during transport and
prior to sale.
[0004] The included plastic cover is unsuitable to store the makeup
brush after the initial use because it is very difficult to
reattach the plastic cover, which also compresses the bristles of
the makeup brush. Over time, repeated use of a makeup brush allows
the bristles to expand, providing a better user experience because
makeup can be more easily and evenly spread across the surface of
the skin. Placing the makeup brush into the plastic cover
recompresses the bristles and reduces the benefits of using a
makeup brush with full bristles.
[0005] Previous solutions for transporting a makeup brush require
the user to place the makeup brush in a larger makeup bag, or
resealable plastic bag, and place this large bag inside of a purse
or other carrying bag. This method is generally cumbersome and
undesirable because it consumes too much space within the purse or
bag. Additionally, the makeup contained on the bristles may be
dislodged during transport, which results in makeup covering the
handle or other portions of the brush that may make the brush
difficult or messy to use. The makeup brush may also collect dirt
and grime during transport, which could transfer dirt and grime to
the face during subsequent use. If the brush is simply placed in a
purse, or other article, the brush and/or article is likely to
become damaged or stained.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] While the specification concludes with claims that
particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is
believed the expressly disclosed versions of the present invention
can be understood from the following description taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference
numerals identify the same elements. The drawings and detailed
description which follow are intended to be merely illustrative of
the expressly disclosed versions and are not intended to limit the
scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. In the
drawings:
[0007] FIG. 1 depicts a top view of a version of a protective brush
cover with a makeup brush.
[0008] FIG. 2 depicts a top view of an alternative version of a
protective brush cover with a makeup brush.
[0009] FIG. 3 depicts a top view of another alternative version of
a protective brush cover with a makeup brush
[0010] FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of another alternative
version of a protective brush cover with a makeup brush.
[0011] FIG. 5 depicts a front view of the protective brush cover of
FIG. 4.
[0012] FIG. 6 depicts a side view of the protective brush cover of
FIG. 4
[0013] FIG. 7 depicts a top view of the protective brush cover of
FIG. 4.
[0014] FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of the protective brush
cover of FIG. 4 with the makeup brush removed.
[0015] FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of the protective brush
cover of FIG. 4 with the makeup brush being inserted into the
protective brush cover.
[0016] FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of an alternative version
of a protective brush cover.
[0017] FIG. 11 depicts a front view of the protective brush cover
of FIG. 10.
[0018] FIG. 12 depicts a side view of the protective brush cover of
FIG. 10.
[0019] FIG. 13 depicts a top view of the protective brush cover of
FIG. 10
[0020] FIG. 14 depicts a perspective partial cutaway view of a
brush cover.
[0021] FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of a brush cover.
[0022] FIG. 16 depicts a top view of the brush cover of FIG.
15.
[0023] FIGS. 17-18 depict example arrangements of interior
loops.
[0024] FIG. 19 depicts a front view of an alternative version of a
protective brush cover having a magnetic enclosure.
[0025] FIG. 20 depicts a front view of an alternative version of a
protective brush cover having a snap fit enclosure.
[0026] FIG. 21 depicts a front view of an alternative version of a
protective brush cover having a zipper enclosure.
[0027] FIG. 22 depicts a front view of an alternative version of a
protective brush cover having a magnetic snap lid.
[0028] FIG. 23 depicts a perspective view of a brush cover that is
housing a head of a makeup brush.
[0029] FIGS. 24A-25B depict side elevational views of the brush
cover of FIG. 23.
[0030] FIG. 24C depicts a cross-sectional view of the brush cover
of FIG. 24B taken along line 24C-24C.
[0031] FIGS. 25A-25C depict the progression of an example makeup
brush being inserted into a brush cover.
[0032] FIGS. 26-27 depict the brush cover of FIG. 23 accommodating
different sized brushes.
[0033] FIGS. 28-31 depict front and back views of example brush
cover configurations.
[0034] FIGS. 32A-32B depict side elevational views of an example
brush cover.
[0035] FIG. 32C depicts a cross-sectional view of the brush cover
of FIG. 32B taken along line 32B-32B.
[0036] FIGS. 33-34 depict the brush cover of FIGS. 32A-32C
accommodating different sized brushes.
[0037] FIGS. 35-40 depict front and back views of example brush
cover configurations.
[0038] FIGS. 41A-41B depict a brush cover having a squeeze-type
opening.
[0039] FIG. 42 depicts an example brush cover.
[0040] FIGS. 43A-43C depicts an example progression of opening a
brush cover.
[0041] FIGS. 44A-44C depict an example progression of opening a
brush cover.
[0042] FIGS. 45A-45B depict a brush cover in a closed and open
position, respectively.
[0043] FIGS. 46A-46B depict a brush cover in a closed and open
position, respectively.
[0044] FIGS. 47A-47B depict a brush cover in an open and closed
position, respectively.
[0045] FIGS. 48A-48B depict a brush cover in an open and closed
position, respectively.
[0046] FIGS. 49A-49C depict a brush cover in accordance with an
example embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] The following description should not be used to limit the
scope of the protective brush cover. Other examples, features,
aspects, versions, and advantages of the protective brush cover
will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following
description. As will be realized, the protective brush cover is
capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without
departing from the protective brush cover as described herein.
Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as
illustrative in nature and not restrictive. It should therefore be
understood that the inventor contemplates a variety of versions
that are not explicitly disclosed herein.
[0048] In FIG. 1, a version of a protective brush cover 10 is
shown. The protective brush cover 10 may generally comprise a pouch
12, an opening 18, and a tying feature 16. Protective brush cover
10 may be used with a makeup brush 50 having bristles 20 and a
shaft 14.
[0049] Pouch 12 and opening 18 may be configured to receive
bristles 20 of makeup brush 50. The shape of pouch 12 may be
generally round. In other versions, the shape of pouch 12 may be
cone shaped, cylindrical shaped, triangle shaped, rectangle shaped,
square shaped, or any other suitable shape for receiving makeup
brush 50 so as to minimize compressing bristles 20 of makeup brush
50.
[0050] Pouch 12 may be various sizes as well. Pouch 12 may be of a
size to cover bristles 20 of makeup brush 50 without substantially
covering shaft 14 of makeup brush 50. In an alternative version, as
shown in FIG. 3, pouch 22 may be of a size sufficient to cover the
entire makeup brush 50.
[0051] Further, pouch 12 may be of a size and shape to protect
bristles 20 of makeup brush 50 while minimizing the overall size of
makeup brush 50 and protective brush cover 10 to reduce
obtrusiveness in a purse or bag. Pouch 12 may be of a size and
shape specifically designed to enclose a particular make and model
makeup brush 50. Other suitable shapes and sizes of pouch 12 will
be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the
teachings herein.
[0052] The material of pouch 12 may be a soft fabric material.
Furthermore, the material of pouch 12 may be rigid or stiff. A
flexibly rigid material may be used to allow pouch 12 to maintain
shape when placed in a purse or other bag to protect bristles 20 of
makeup brush 50. The material of pouch 12 may be selected from any
suitable material including, but not limited to, cotton, nylon,
polyester, denim, satin, wool, leather, cashmere, linen, felt,
silk, velvet, organza, plastic, and vinyl. The material of pouch 12
may also be washable so that pouch 12 may be washed after multiple
uses to remove makeup and other dirt from pouch 12. Further, the
material of pouch 12 may comprise an antibacterial material.
[0053] Pouch 12 may comprise various colors and patterns. Suitable
colors and patterns may be selected so that when placed in a purse
or other bag, protective brush cover 10 is highly visible to allow
quick retrieval. Suitable colors and patterns may be selected for
other aesthetic reasons. Other suitable colors and patterns of
pouch 12 will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in
view of the teachings herein.
[0054] The opening 18 of pouch 12 of protective brush cover 10, in
versions where the make-up brush is inserted through a bottom
opening 18 of the pouch 12, may be of a size suitable to allow the
bristle end of a makeup brush to enter. Opening 18 of pouch 12 may
be opened and closed through use of a tying feature 16. By
manipulating tying feature 16, opening 18 of pouch 12 may have two
positions: an open position and a tightened position. In the open
position, opening 18 of pouch 12 may be sufficiently large enough
to allow bristle 20 end of makeup brush 50 to be easily placed into
or removed from pouch 12 of protective brush cover 10.
[0055] In the tightened position, opening 18 of pouch 12 may
substantially tighten or snuggly tighten around shaft 14 of
protective brush cover 10. The tightened position may be
sufficiently tight so as to prevent unintentional removal of makeup
brush 50 from protective brush cover 10. The tightened position may
also be sufficiently tight so that protective brush cover 10 stays
on makeup brush 50 when makeup brush 50 is placed inside a purse or
other bag. Other suitable sizes of opening 18 of pouch 12 will be
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the
teachings herein.
[0056] Tying feature 16 may be configured to work with opening 18
of pouch 12 of protective brush cover 10 to change the size of
opening 18. The tying feature 16 may comprise at least one
drawstring that may be pulled or loosened to change the size of the
opening 18. Tying feature 16 may further comprise a single
drawstring or may comprise a plurality of drawstrings. Upon
changing the size of opening 18, the drawstring or plurality of
draw strings may be wrapped around protective brush cover 10 or may
be allowed to freely hang. An additional tightening feature (not
shown), such as, for example, a bead may be used to maintain the
open or the tightened position of tying feature 16. Other suitable
methods or configurations to tighten or loosen opening 18 of pouch
12 may be used as well. For example, tying feature 16 may comprise,
but is not limited to, one or more clasps, rubber bands, flexible
wires, ribbon, etc., suitable to manipulate the size or shape of
opening 18 of pouch 12 of protective brush cover 10.
[0057] In one version, the user may use protective brush cover 10
by placing the brush through opening 18 of protective brush cover
10 and into pouch 12. Then the user may engage tying feature 16 to
tighten opening 18 of protective brush cover 10. The user may then
place protective brush cover 10 in the user's purse or other bag
for storage or transport. In an alternative version, the user may
place makeup brush 50 in protective brush cover 10 and may place
the covered makeup brush 50 in a purse, a makeup bag, or other bag
without manipulating tying feature 16.
[0058] The user may then transport or store the covered makeup
brush 50 in the purse or other bag. The user may remove the covered
makeup brush 50 from the purse or other bag. The user may remove
makeup brush 50 from protective brush cover 10 by loosening tying
feature 16 or by simply removing the brush from protective brush
cover 10 without manipulating tying feature 16.
[0059] FIGS. 4-9 depict another version of a protective brush cover
100 for use with a makeup brush 150. Makeup brush 150 comprises a
handle 114 and a head 120. Protective brush cover 100 comprises a
body 132 and a lid 124. Body 132 is shaped to have a slightly
flattened frustoconical shape with a mouth 134 and a neck opening
130. Neck opening 130 is sized wide enough such that handle 114 of
makeup brush 150 may be inserted through neck opening 130 yet
narrow enough that head 120 of makeup brush 150 does not slip
through neck opening 130. The contours of body 132 may be
sufficiently wide such that the walls do not compress or damage the
bristles of head 120, yet narrow enough such that protective brush
cover 100 and makeup brush 150 can be easily placed into, for
example, a purse. The degree of flatness of body 132 may be shaped
such that it generally tracks the contours of head 120 of makeup
brush 150. For example, if makeup brush 150 is very wide or if the
bristles of makeup brush 150 flare widely, body 132 may be shaped
to accommodate such flare. Body 132 comprises a generally rigid
material such as a cardboard or plastic. However any suitable
material may be used.
[0060] Near mouth 134 of body 132, a semicircular recess 128 is
formed. Recess 128 is shaped to complement the magnetic tab 126
attached to lid 124. Recess 128 may comprise a magnet or other
magnetically influenced material or metal embedded beneath the
surface of the recess such that when lid 124 shuts upon body 132,
recess 128 and tab 126 magnetically lock together to keep lid 124
closed. The force of the magnetic bond formed between recess 128
and tab 126 may generally be strong enough such that lid 124 is not
inadvertently opened, for example, during transport, but weak
enough such that a user may easily open lid 124 by decoupling
magnetic bind between recess 128 and tab 126. While recess 128 and
tab 126 comprise a complementary semi circular shape, any suitable
shape for recess 128 and tab 126 may be used as would be apparent
to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings
herein. Furthermore, a vent hole 140 is positioned on body 132 to
provide ventilation within protective brush cover 100 while makeup
brush 150 is placed in protective brush cover 100 with lid 124
closed.
[0061] Generally, protective brush cover 100 may be used as shown
in FIGS. 8-9. Lid 124 of protective brush cover 100 is opened and
makeup brush 150 is inserted through mouth 134 of protective brush
cover 100. Handle 114 of makeup brush 150 travels through neck
opening 130. The taper of the portion near neck opening 130 of
protective brush cover 100 aids in preventing makeup brush 150 from
sliding completely through neck opening 130. Furthermore the taper
of neck opening 130 enables a user to simply drop makeup brush 150
into protective brush cover 100 since the taper helps guide makeup
brush 150 through neck opening. Additionally, as mentioned above,
neck opening 130 may be sufficiently narrow so as to form a grip
around a neck portion 122 of makeup brush 150.
[0062] Once makeup brush 150 is inserted into protective brush
cover 100 such that head 120 is enclosed, the user can close lid
124 of protective brush cover 100 for transport or storage of
makeup brush 150.
[0063] FIGS. 10-13 depict an alternative version of a protective
brush cover 200 that is substantially similar to protective brush
cover 200 shown in FIGS. 4-9 where the protective brush cover 200
comprises a body 232, mouth 234, neck opening 230, and recess 228.
In the illustrated version, protective brush cover 200 comprises an
interior loop 236 with a connecting portion 238 to attach interior
loop 236 to body 232 of protective brush cover 200. Interior loop
236 comprises generally a wire loop able to grip the neck of a
makeup brush, such as the makeup brush shown in FIGS. 4-9. It will
be appreciated that interior loop 236 may provide additional
stability in securing a makeup brush.
[0064] While FIGS. 10-13 show a brush cover having one interior
loop 236, other embodiments may utilize a plurality of interior
loops or other suitable internal retention devices. FIG. 14 shows a
perspective partial cutaway view of a brush cover 700 having
example internal retention devices. The brush cover 700 comprises a
body 732, a lid 724, a tab 726, and plurality of interior loops
736. The interior loops 736 may be attached to the body 732 with a
connecting portion 738, or any other suitable attachment technique.
Each of the interior loops 736 can receive the handle of a makeup
brush. While the brush cover 700 depicted has three interior loops,
other embodiments may have a different number of interior
loops.
[0065] FIGS. 15-16 depict another version of a brush cover 800
having interior loops 838. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the
brush cover 800 and FIG. 16 is a top view of the brush cover 800
with the lid 824 moved to the open position. The interior loops 838
are horizontally arranged and positioned in-between the first
opening 830 and the second opening 834. In some embodiments, the
interior loops 838 are attached to the body 832 using a connecting
portion 838. The interior loops may be positioned within the brush
cover 800 such that they are closer to the first opening 830 than
the second opening 834. In other embodiments, the interior loops
may be positioned such that they are generally aligned with the
first opening 830. The interior loops 838 can be any suitable
shape, such as generally circular, oblong, or multi-sided, for
example. Additionally, the interior loops 838 can be flexible,
rigid, and/or elastic, for example. The interior loops 838 can be
made from any suitable material or combination of materials, such
as textiles, elastics, rubbers, plastics and/or metals, for
example. Furthermore, any suitable number of loops, each having any
suitable size may be used. By way of example, FIG. 17 depicts an
arrangement of four interior loops 838 that can be used with
various brush covers and FIG. 18 depicts an arrangement of three
interior loops 838 that are each a different size. The arrangement
shown in FIG. 18 may be used with brush covers that are intended to
simultaneously store a plurality of different sized makeup brushes,
for example. The quantity of makeup brushes storable in any
particular brush cover may vary based on, for example, the size of
the brush cover, the size of the makeup brushes to be stored, and
the arrangement of any interior loops.
[0066] FIG. 19 depicts an alternative version of a protective brush
cover 300 comprising a body 332, a neck opening 330, a mouth 334
and a magnetic strip 326 for use with a makeup brush 350, which
comprises a head 320, a handle 314, and a neck 322. In the
illustrated version, body 332 comprises a cloth-like material. Of
course, any suitable material may be used.
[0067] Magnetic strip 326 has a generally arc-like shape that
matches the shape of mouth 334. A second similarly shaped magnetic
strip (not shown) is positioned opposite to magnetic strip 326 such
that mouth 334 may be held shut once a makeup brush 350 is placed
though 334 of protective brush cover 300 by joining magnetic strip
326 with the second magnetic strip. While in this version, magnetic
strip 326 and the second magnetic strip are similarly shaped, they
may have different shapes, such as, for example, complementary
shapes or interlocking shapes.
[0068] Neck opening 330 comprises gathered fabric material having
an elastic band, rope, thread, drawstring, or liner extending
circumferentially around neck opening 330 such that neck opening
330 may be opened and then tightened around a neck 322 of a makeup
brush 350 once a handle 314 of makeup brush 350 is placed through
neck opening 330. The tightness of neck opening 330 is sufficient
such that makeup brush 350 should not slip out of neck opening 330,
yet not so tight that makeup brush 350 cannot be intentionally
removed from protective brush cover 300.
[0069] FIG. 20 depicts an alternative version of a protective brush
cover 400 comprising a body 432, a neck opening 430, a flap 434,
and a fastener 426 for use with a makeup brush 450 having a handle
414, a neck 422 and a head 420. Flap 434 is designed to cover the
mouth (not shown) of protective brush cover 400. In the illustrated
version, fastener 426 comprises a snap button fit, but any suitable
fastening means may be used, such as, for example, a clasp, hook,
or pin.
[0070] FIG. 21 depicts an alternative version of a protective brush
cover 500 comprising a body 532, a neck opening 530, a zipper
opening 534, and a zipper pull 526. Zipper pull 526 may be
manipulated by a user to open and close zipper opening 534 of
protective brush cover such that a makeup brush 550 having a head
520, neck 522 and handle 514 may be inserted or removed through
zipper opening 534. In one version, the neck opening may remain
closed where, for example, when the zipper pull 526 is actuated
only a side portion of the brush cover 500 is unzipped. In this
version, the handle 514 may be inserted through the neck opening,
the brush 520 may be positioned within the brush cover 500, and the
zipper pull 526 may then be actuated to close the brush cover
500.
[0071] FIG. 22 depicts an alternative version of a protective brush
cover 600 comprising a body 632, a magnetic flap 626, and an
embedded band 630 for use with a makeup brush 650 having a head
620, a neck 622, and a handle 614.
[0072] Embedded band 630 may be sized to fit a variety of different
brush sizes. For example, for larger brushes, embedded band 630 may
be wider or longer. Accordingly, a shorter or narrower embedded
band 630 may be used for smaller brushes. Also, the illustrated
version comprises a generally square-like shaped protective brush
cover 600. It will be appreciated that as the length or width of
embedded band 630 is selected for the appropriate size makeup brush
650, the dimensions or general shape of protective brush cover 600
may be adjusted to accommodate embedded band 630.
[0073] Magnetic flap 626 comprises a flap having a magnet embedded
in the flap. Magnetic flap 626 may join with an associated element
embedded in body 632 of protective brush cover 600 to close
protective brush cover 600 once makeup brush 650 has been
inserted.
[0074] FIGS. 23-27 depict an example embodiment of a brush cover
900 comprising a first panel 902 and a second panel 904. FIG. 23
depicts a perspective view of the brush cover 900 housing a head
920 of a makeup brush 950. FIG. 24A depicts a side elevational view
of the first panel 902 and FIG. 24B depicts a side elevational view
of the second panel 904. FIG. 24C depicts a cross-sectional view of
the brush cover of FIG. 24B taken along line 24C-24C.
[0075] In some embodiments, the first panel 902 and the second
panel 904 may be a single unitary panel. For example, the unitary
panel may be folded to form the first panel 902 and the second
panel 904. Additionally, either or both of the first and second
panels 902, 904 can be rigid, flexible, or a combination of rigid
and flexible portions. In some embodiments, the first and second
panels 902, 904, or at least portions of the panels, are a textile,
such as cloth-like material. In some embodiments, the first and
second panels 902, 904, or at least portions of the panels, are
leather or a leather-like material. In some embodiments, the first
and second panels 902, 904, or at least portions of the panels, are
a plastic or rigid material. As with many of the embodiments
described herein, one of more of the panels 902, 904 may also
comprise a liner, such as a nylon or plastic liner.
[0076] The first and second panels 902, 904 may be coupled together
near their outer edge to form a seam 906. In FIG. 23, panel
stitching 908 is shown that attaches the first panel 902 to the
second panel 904. As is to be appreciated, however, any suitable
coupling or bonding technique may be used, such as, for example,
ultrasonic welding, gluing, riveting, and so forth. Furthermore,
while the panel stitching 908 is shown extending substantially
along the entire length of the outer edge, a shorter length of
stitching (or other connection technique) may be used to achieve
the desired performance of the brush cover 900. For example, in
some embodiments, about half of the length of the seam 906 is
connected using panel stitching 908.
[0077] The first and second panels 902, 904 may cooperatively
define an expandable pocket 910 (FIG. 24C). The pocket 910 may be
sized to accommodate the head of a makeup brush. The brush cover
900 may define a first opening 930 and a second opening 934, each
of which are in communication with the pocket 910. In some
embodiments, the second opening 934 is selectably sealable or at
least closable. For example, a fastener 926 (FIG. 24A) may be
positioned proximate to the second opening to maintain the second
opening 934 in a closed position when the fastener 926 is in an
engaged position. The fastener 926 may be any suitable fastening,
latching, or closing device, such as a magnetic fastener, a snap, a
button, a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, a zip-lock type
fastener, snap button, clasp, latch, hook, pin, and so forth.
[0078] The brush cover 900 may also have a retention portion 960.
The retention portion 960 may be incorporated into the brush cover
900 at any suitable position, such as proximate the first opening
930, for example. The retention portion 960 may be configured to
exert a biasing force to maintain the position of makeup brush that
is positioned within the brush cover 900. The retention portion 960
may comprise a biasing feature, such as an elastic member 928. The
elastic member 928 may be any suitable shape or configuration. The
elastic member 928 illustrated in brush cover 900 is a generally
triangular shape, although the present disclosure is not so
limited.
[0079] FIGS. 25A-25C show the progression of an example makeup
brush 950 being inserted into the expandable pocket 910 of the
brush cover 900. As shown in FIG. 25A, the second opening 934 is
first opened by disengaging the fastener 926. The handle 914 of the
makeup brush 950 is then moved in the direction indicated by arrow
921 and the handle 914 is first inserted into the pocket 910
through the second opening 934. As shown in FIG. 25B, the elastic
member 928 outwardly expands when the handle 914 reaches the
retention portion 960. The elastic member 928 slides along the
handle 914 as the makeup brush is inserted further into the pocket
910 and the handle 914 extends through the first opening 930. As
shown in FIG. 25C, when the head 920 of the makeup brush 950 is
positioned fully within the pocket 910, the second opening 934 can
be closed using fastener 926. With the handle 914 extending through
the first opening 930, the elastic member 928 generally exerts a
biasing force against the handle 914 to maintain its position
relative to the brush cover 900. To remove the makeup brush 950
from the brush cover 900, the makeup brush 950 may be moved in the
direction indicated by arrow 921 by pulling the handle 914 through
the first opening 930 until the head 920 passes through the first
opening 930. The elastic member 928 expands to allow the head 920
to pass through the first opening 930. By pulling the makeup brush
950 through the first opening 930, the chances of fraying the
bristles of the head 920 can be reduced. Nevertheless, in some
configurations, the process shown in FIGS. 25A-25C can be reversed
to remove the makeup brush 950 from the brush cover 900.
[0080] As shown in FIGS. 26-27, the brush cover 900 may accommodate
a wide variety of brush styles and sizes. In fact, the retention
portion 960 may expand and contract as needed based on the size of
the makeup brush handle. The handle 915 of the makeup brush 951
shown in FIG. 26 has a smaller diameter than the handle 917 of the
makeup brush 952 shown in FIG. 27. As illustrated, the pocket 910
and retention portion 960 of the brush cover 900 expands as
necessary to accommodate and adequately retain the makeup
brush.
[0081] Brush covers in accordance with the present disclosure may
have a variety of size, shapes and configurations. FIGS. 28-31
depict front and back views of example brush cover configurations.
As is to be appreciated, various components or features of one of
the illustrated brush covers may be used in combination with or in
place of features from other brush covers. As such, the particular
configurations illustrated herein are not intended to be limiting,
but instead are used merely to depict example features of elements
of example brush covers.
[0082] FIG. 28 depicts a brush cover 1000 that has a retention
portion 1060. The retention portion 1060 is expandable to
accommodate the handle of a makeup brush and helps to maintain the
relative position of a makeup brush that is inserted into the brush
cover 1000. The retention portion 1060 is comprised of a first
elastic member 1028 positioned on a first panel 1002 and a second
elastic member 1029 positioned on a second panel 1004. As
illustrated, the first elastic member 1028 generally opposes the
second elastic member 1029. The brush cover 1000 depicted in FIG.
28 also comprises a fastener 1026.
[0083] FIG. 29 depicts a brush cover 1100 that has a retention
portion 1160. The retention portion 1160 comprises an elastic
member 1128. As shown, the elastic member 1128 has a cuff-like
structure that is coupled to the first panel 1102 and the second
panel 1104. The elastic member 1128 can be any suitable material,
such as a textile or a rubber material, for example. A zipper 1126
with a zipper pull 1138 is used to selectively close the brush
cover 1100.
[0084] FIG. 30 depicts a brush cover 1200 that has a retention
portion 1260. The brush cover 1200 comprises a first panel 1202 and
a second panel 1204. The retention portion 1260 comprises an
elastic member 1228 which extends across the entire width of the
first panel 1202. As shown, the second panel 1204 does not include
an elastic member. The brush cover 1200 also comprises a fastener
1226.
[0085] FIG. 31 depicts a brush cover 1300 that has a retention
portion 1360 positioned near its bottom. The brush cover 1300
comprises a first panel 1302 and a second panel 1304. The top of
the brush cover is substantially larger than the bottom of the
brush cover 1300 to create a generally flared shaped. This brush
cover 1300 could accommodate, for example, makeup brushes that have
relatively large heads and relatively small diameter handles. The
retention portion 1360 comprises an elastic member 1328 which
extends across the entire width of the first panel 1302. The brush
cover 1300 also comprises a fastener 1326. In the illustrated
embodiment, the fastener 1326 is a magnetic strip having a
generally arc-like shape.
[0086] FIGS. 32A-34 depict a brush cover 1400 in accordance with
another non-limiting embodiment. FIG. 32A depicts a side
elevational view of a first panel 1402. FIG. 32B shows an
elevational view of a second panel 1404. FIG. 32C depicts a
cross-sectional view of the brush cover of FIG. 32B taken along
line 32C-32C. FIGS. 33-34 show cross-sectional views of the brush
cover 1400 storing various sizes of makeup brushes.
[0087] Referring first to FIGS. 32A-32C, the front panel 1402 and
second panel 1404 may be stitched, or otherwise attached, along
attached portion 1408 to form a seam 1406 (FIG. 32C). The first and
second panels 1402, 1404 cooperatively define a first opening 1430
and a second opening 1434 that are in communication with an
internal pocket 1410. The brush cover 1400 may have a retention
portion 1460 positioned proximate the first opening 1430 that
comprises a first elastic member 1428 and a second elastic member
1429. Each of the first and second elastic members 1428, 1429 may
be coupled to the front and second panels 1402, 1404. In some
embodiments, the first and second elastic members 1428, 1429 are
stitched or glued to the front and second panels 1402, 1404. The
elastic members may be coupled, for example, to either the inside
or outside face of the first and second panels. In some
embodiments, the first and second panels 1402, 1404 may be
multilayered, with the elastic members coupled to an internal
layer. In any event, the first and second elastic members 1428,
1429 are expandable to change the size of the first opening 1430
and the size of pocket 1410. While a fastener is not shown, it is
to be appreciated that some embodiments may incorporate a fastener
to selectively close or seal the second opening 1434. Moreover,
while attached portion 1408 is illustrated as extending
substantially along the seam 1406 from the second opening 1434 to
the first and second elastic members 1428, 1429, some other
embodiments may have smaller or shorter attached portions 1408. For
example, some brush covers may only be attached at an area
immediately proximate the second opening 1434. As is to be
appreciated, having a smaller or shorter attached portion 1408 may
allow for greater expansion of the pocket 1410. Nevertheless, the
amount of expansion may still be limited by the amount of expansion
(i.e., elasticity) permitted by the retention portion 1460. In
fact, the particular arrangement of attached portion sizing,
retention portion sizing, and elasticity may be selected based on
the type or size of makeup brush to be housed by the brush cover.
Brush covers for relatively small makeup brushes (such as eye
makeup brushes, for example) may be configured differently than
brush covers for larger style brushes. In any event, due to the
expansive characteristics of the retention portion 1460, a variety
of makeup brush styles can be stored by the same brush cover. In
fact, in some cases, a plurality of makeup brushes can be
simultaneously stored within the same brush cover.
[0088] FIGS. 33-34 illustrates the brush cover 1400 accommodating
two different makeup brushes 1450, 1451, respectively. As shown, in
FIG. 33, a makeup brush 1450 having a relatively slender handle
1414 is secured within the brush cover 1400 due to the biasing
forces exerted against the handle 1414 by the first elastic member
1428 and the second elastic member 1429 (FIG. 32B). By comparison,
the makeup brush 1451 shown in FIG. 34 has a relatively large
diameter handle 1415. The brush cover 1400 is expanded to
accommodate the larger sized makeup brush, which is held in placed
by the first elastic member 1428 and the second elastic member 1429
(FIG. 32B).
[0089] FIGS. 35-40 illustrate front view and back views of example
brush cover configurations. As is to be appreciated, various
components or features of one of the illustrated brush covers may
be used in combination with or in place of features from other
brush covers. As such, the particular configurations illustrated
herein are not intended to be limiting, but instead are used merely
to depict example features of elements of example brush covers.
[0090] FIG. 35 depicts a brush cover 1500 having a first panel 1502
and a second panel 1504. The first and second panels 1504 may be
coupled to a form an expandable pocket. A retention portion 1560
may allow for such expansion. The retention portion in FIG. 35 has
an elastic band member 1528 which is circular band coupled to the
first and second panels 1502, 1504.
[0091] FIG. 36 depicts a brush cover 1600 having a first panel 1602
and a second panel 1604. The brush cover 1600 comprises a first and
second elastic member 1628, 1629 which generally extend from the
top to the bottom of the brush cover. The first and second elastic
members 1628, 1629 allow for the expansion of a pocket formed by
the first and second panels 1602, 1604 and help to secure a makeup
brush positioned within the brush cover 1600. The brush cover 1600
also comprises a fastener 1626 which selectively holds the brush
cover in a closed position.
[0092] FIG. 37 depicts a brush cover 1700 in accordance with one
non-limiting embodiment. The brush cover 1700 has a first panel
1702 coupled to a second panel 1704 along panel stitching 1708.
Other embodiments may use other types of panel couplings, such as
glue or rivets, for example. A zipper 1726 with a zipper pull 1738
is positioned near an opening of the brush cover 1700. The brush
cover 1700 also comprises an elastic member 1728 positioned on the
opposite side of the panel stitching 1708. The elastic member 1728
may be configured to provide the biasing force to generally
maintain the position of a makeup brush inserted into the brush
cover 1700. In some embodiments, first and second panels 1702, 1704
are a unitary panel which is folded. In such embodiments, the panel
stitching 1708 may not necessarily be needed.
[0093] FIG. 38 depicts a brush cover 1800 that comprises a single
elastic member 1828 coupled to a first panel 1802 and a second
panel 1804. The first panel 1802 and the second panel 1804 may be
coupled together, such as stitched or glued along a second side
region 2204 (FIG. 42). In some embodiments, the first and second
panels 1802, 1804 are a unitary panel which is folded. A fastener
1826, such as a magnetic snap, for example, may be used to hold a
portion of the first panel 1802 in close proximity to the second
panel 1804.
[0094] FIG. 39 depicts a brush cover 1900 comprising a first panel
1902 and a second panel 1904. An elastic member 1928 is positioned
within the panel 1904. While the elastic member 1928 is shown
extending from the top of the panel 1904 to the bottom of the panel
1904, the present disclosure is not so limited. Furthermore, while
not shown, it is to be appreciated that the brush cover 1900 may
also comprise any suitable fastener. While the elastic member 1928
is illustrated as a relatively narrow strip, in other embodiments,
the elastic member 1928 may be much wider such that a majority of
the second panel 1904 is the elastic member 1928. Furthermore, some
embodiments may have multiple elastic members 1928 incorporated
into the one or both of the first and second panels 1902, 1904.
[0095] FIG. 40 depicts a brush cover 2000 having a first panel 2002
and a second panel 2004. An elastic member 2028 is positioned
laterally across the second panel 2004. The elastic member 2008 may
be positioned at an angle .theta. relative to vertical. In the
illustrated embodiment, angle .theta. is about 90 degrees. In other
embodiments, angle .theta. may be in the range of about 0 degrees
to 90 degrees. While the elastic member 2028 is illustrated as a
relatively narrow strop, in other embodiments, the elastic member
2028 may be much wider such that a majority of the second panel
2008 is the elastic member 2028. The first panel 2002 and the
second panel 2004 may be coupled using panel stitching 2008, or any
other suitable coupling technique.
[0096] FIGS. 41A-41B depict a brush cover 2100 having a
squeeze-type opening (sometimes referred to as "self-closing" or
"coin purse" opening) at its opening 2130. As is to be appreciated,
this squeeze-type opening can alternatively be used with a variety
of other embodiments, such as in place of the zipper 1126 (FIG. 29)
or the fastener 1226 (FIG. 30), for example. When the brush cover
2100 is squeezed in the direction of the arrows, the opening 2130
separates to transition from a closed position (FIG. 41A) to an
open position (FIG. 41B) allowing access to an inner pocket 2110.
When the user releases the brush cover 2100, the opening 2130 may
automatically close. While not shown, it is to be appreciated that
the brush cover 2100 may also comprise a retention portion
comprising an elastic band, or other suitable retention mechanism,
to engage the handle of a makeup brush. This retention portion may
be similar to any of the retention portions 960, 1060, 1160, 1260,
1360, 1460 shown in FIGS. 23, 28, 29, 30, 31, and 32A,
respectively. Any suitable technique may be used to produce the
squeeze-type opening at the opening 2130. For example, the brush
cover 2100 may have a flexible plastic opening, similar to common
coin purses. Other embodiments, may include bendable strips of
plastic or metal strips positioned or embedded along the rim of the
first opening 2130. By squeezing the ends of the strips, the strips
bend or flex outward to allow access to the pocket. When the ends
of the strips are released, they flex back to their original shape
to close the opening 2130.
[0097] FIG. 42 depicts an example brush cover 2200 having first
side region 2202, a second side region 2204, a top region 2206, and
a bottom region 2208. The brush cover 2200 has a height A, a first
width B and a second width C. In accordance with various
embodiments, the height A may be in the range of about 1 inch to
about 5 inches, the first width B may be in the range of about 0.5
inches to about 4 inches, and the second width C may be in the
range of about 0.5 to about 4 inches. In some embodiments, the
height A may exceed 5 inches and the first and/or second width B
and C may exceed 4''. In some embodiments, the first width B and
the second width C are about equal. In other embodiments, the first
width B is larger than the second width C to form a brush cover
2200 that generally narrows from top to bottom. With embodiments
that narrow from top to bottom, in some of those embodiments, the
second width C is about 30% less than the first width B. In some of
those narrowing embodiments, the second width C is about 50% less
than the first width B. In some of those narrowing embodiments, the
second width C is about 25% less than the first width B. The depth
of the brush cover 2200 may be in the range of about 0.25 inches to
about 1 inch, although some embodiments may be thinner or thicker
depth without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0098] FIGS. 43A-43C depicts an example progression of opening a
brush cover 2300. The brush cover 2300 has a first panel 2302 and a
second panel 2304 that are coupled to each other in a hinged
arrangement. A fastener 2326 is positioned to selectively maintain
the brush cover 2300 in a closed position. The fastener 2326 may be
any suitable closure device, such as a snap, button, zipper, clasp,
and so forth. A hinge 2306 may be positioned along one side of the
brush cover 2300. The hinge 2306 may be any suitable component or
structure allowing the first panel 2302 to pivot relative to the
second panel 2304. For instance, the hinge 2306 can be made from
plastic, fabric, synthetic material, or an expandable material, as
elastic. In some embodiments, the hinge 2306 may be combination of
interlocking rigid components. In other embodiments the hinge 2306
may be relatively simple, such as a single flexible piece of
material that is fastened to each of the first and second panels
2302, 2304. In some embodiments, the first panel 2302 and the
second panel 2304 are formed from a single unitary panel that is
folded such that the fold forms the hinge 2306. In some
embodiments, such as brush covers manufactured through injection
molding process, the hinge is a living hinge and integral with both
the first and second panels 2302, 2304. In any event, the brush
cover 2300 may also comprise an elastic member 2328. While the
elastic member 2328 is shown positioned on the first panel 2302,
this disclosure is not so limited. Instead, the elastic member 2328
may be arranged in any suitable configuration. FIG. 43A shows the
brush cover 2300 in a closed position. FIG. 43B shows the brush
cover 2300 as the first panel 2302 is pivoted about the hinge 2306
in the direction indicated by the arrow. FIG. 43C shows the brush
cover 2300 in a fully opened position. In one embodiment, as shown,
one or more loops 2336, or other interior retention devices, may be
mounted to the second panel 2304 for receiving makeup brush
handles. While three loops 2336 are illustrated in FIG. 43C, any
suitable number of loops (having the same or different shapes and
sizes) may be used. The loops 2336 also may be expandable,
flexible, or rigid. The loops 2336 may be attached to the second
panel 2304 using any suitable technique. For example, in some
embodiments, the loops 2336 may be stitched onto the inner surface
of the second panel 2304 or riveted to the inner surface of the
second panel 2304. It is noted that some embodiments of the brush
cover 2300 may not include any loops or other interior retention
device.
[0099] As shown by the brush cover 2400 in FIGS. 44A-44C, some
embodiments may utilize other interior retention devices, such as
an elastic strap 2436, for example. The brush cover 2400 has a
first panel 2402 in hinged communication with a second panel 2404.
One or more fasteners 2426 may be used to maintain the brush cover
2400 in a closed position. In one embodiment, the fasteners 2426
are magnetic and positioned such that they are not necessarily
visible, such as internal to the panels 2402, 2402. As shown in
FIG. 44B, the first panel 2402 can be pivoted about the hinge to
allow access to the brush cover 2400. The elastic strap 2436 may be
coupled to the second panel 2404 such that a handle of a makeup
brush can be slide between the elastic strap 2436 and the second
panel 2404. In some embodiments, one or more elastic members 2428
may also be positioned between the first and second panels 2402,
2404 to help secure the makeup brush in place. Additionally, the
elastic strap 2436 may be secured to the second panel 2404 at a
plurality of locations along the strap so that a series of loops
are formed, which can each receive the handle of a different makeup
brush.
[0100] FIGS. 45A-45B depict an embodiment of brush cover 2500 in a
closed position and an open position, respectively. The brush cover
2500 comprises a body flap 2534 with a portion of the body flap
2534 that can be selectively coupled and decoupled to the body 2532
using fasteners 2526. The fasteners 2526 may be snaps, buttons,
magnetic clasps, or hook and loop fasteners, for example. When the
portion of the body flap 2534 is decoupled from the body 2532, the
pocket 2510 that formed by the body 2532 is accessible to allow a
makeup brush to be inserted therein. Once the makeup brush has been
inserted, the portion of the body flap 2534 can again be coupled to
the body 2532. It is to be appreciated, that the brush cover 2500
may also include a variety of features described herein, such as a
hinged lid, one or more internal loops, a retention portion, and so
forth.
[0101] FIGS. 46A-46B depict an embodiment of brush cover 2600 in a
closed position and an open position, respectively. The brush cover
2600 comprises a body flap 2634 that can be selectively coupled and
decoupled to the body 2632 using fasteners 2626. The particular
location or orientation of the body flap 2634 relative to the body
2632 may vary. While the body flap 2634 is shown positioned on the
side of the brush cover 2600, other embodiments may position the
body flap 2634 toward the rear (i.e., near the hinge of the lid
2624, for example) without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 2636 are
hook-and-loop fasteners which allow for the body flap 2634 to be
selectively coupled to the body 2632 at a plurality of positions to
change the size of the pocket 2610. In other embodiments, different
types of fasteners 2636 may be used, such as magnetic snaps,
buttons, and so forth. Changing the size of the pocket 2610 allows
for the accommodation of makeup brushes of different sizes. The
brush cover 2600 also comprises a lid 2624 in hinged communication
with the body 2632. In some methods of use, the body flap 2634 may
be attached to the body 2632 to create a pocket appropriately sized
for a particular brush or type of brush. Subsequently, the lid 2624
may be used as the primary means for accessing the pocket 2610.
[0102] The lid 2624 comprises a tab 2626 that selectively couples
to the body 2632. In one embodiment, a first magnetic clasp 2627 is
coupled to the tab 2626 and a second magnetic clasp 2628 is coupled
to the body 2632. When the lid 2624 is in the closed position (FIG.
46A), the first magnetic clasp 2627 is positioned proximate to and
engages with the second magnetic clasp 2628, which generally holds
the lid 2624 in the closed position. In some embodiments, the first
and second magnetic clasps 2627, 2628 may be positioned along the
body 2632 such that they are proximate to the handle (or ferule) of
a stored makeup brush (as opposed to be positioned proximate to the
head of the makeup brush). Such placement may reduce the likelihood
of the head of makeup brush being distorted over time. In some
embodiments, the first and second magnetic clasps 2627, 2628 may be
positioned closer to the first opening 2630 than the second opening
2634. It is noted that the placement of the first and second
magnetic clasps 2627, 2628 illustrated in FIGS. 46A-46B can be
associated with any other type of tab or lid, such as the magnetic
flap 626 shown in FIG. 22 or tab 126 shown in FIGS. 4-9, for
example.
[0103] FIGS. 47A-47B depict an embodiment of brush cover 2700 with
a lid 2724 in an open position and a closed position, respectively.
The brush cover 2700 comprises a body 2732 defining a first opening
2630 and a second opening 2634. A zipper 2726 with a zipper pull
2738 is coupled to the lid 2724, which is in hinged communication
with the body 2732 by hinge 2706. The hinge 2706 may have a first
end 2708 and a second end 2709. The zipper 2726 comprising a first
arcuate row of zipper teeth coupled to the lid 2724 and extending
from a first end 2708 of the hinge 2706 to the second end 2709 of
the hinge 2706. The zipper 2726 may also comprise a second arcuate
row of zipper teeth coupled to the body 2732 proximate the second
opening 2634. The lid 2724 may be unzipped and opened to allow
access to the second opening 2643. Once the head of a makeup brush
has been positioned within the brush cover 2700, the lid 2724 can
be closed and secured to the body 2732 using the zipper 2726.
[0104] FIGS. 48A-48B depict rear views of a brush cover 2800 with a
body flap 2834 in a closed position and an open position,
respectively. The body flap 2834 can be selectively coupled and
decoupled to the body 2832 using fasteners 2836. In the illustrated
embodiment, the fasteners 2836 are hook-and-loop fasteners which
allow for the body flap 2834 to be selectively coupled to the body
2832 at a plurality of positions to change the size of the pocket
2630. Other embodiments may use other type of fasteners or
fastening techniques. Changing the size of the pocket 2630 allows
for the brush cover 2800 to be selectively sized to accommodate of
makeup brushes of different sizes. The brush cover 2800 also
comprises a lid 2824 in hinged communication with the body 2632
that moveable between a closed and open position (shown in the
closed position). The lid 2824 can include any suitable structure
to maintain the lid 2824 in a closed position, such as a tab (such
as tab 2626 in FIG. 46A) or a zipper (such as zipper 2726 in FIG.
47A), for example. In some methods of use, the body flap 2834 may
be attached to the body 2832 to create a pocket 2630 appropriately
sized for a particular brush or type of brush to be routinely
stored within the brush cover 2800. Subsequently, the lid 2824 may
be used as the primary means for accessing the pocket 2610.
[0105] As is to be appreciated, the brush covers having body flaps
(brush covers 2500, 2600, 2800), as well as any other style of
brush cover described herein, may incorporate internal retention
features, such as interior loops. In fact, some embodiments may
have a plurality of interior loops, similar to interior loops 838
(FIGS. 17-18), for example, such that a plurality of makeup brushes
can be simultaneously stored within in the brush cover. Each of the
interior loops can be of similar size or of different size. FIGS.
49A-49C depict a brush cover 2900 in accordance with an example
embodiment. FIG. 49A shows a top view of the brush cover 2900 and
FIGS. 49B-C show a first and second side view, respectively. The
brush cover 2900 has a first panel 2902 coupled to a second panel
2904. A fastener 2926, shown as a snap, is positioned proximate an
opening 2934 to selectively retain the opening 2934 in a closed
position. A liner 2907 is positioned in the inner cavity of the
brush cover 2900 to line the pocket that is cooperatively defined
by the first and second panels 902, 904. Panel stitching 2908 is
used to couple the first panel 2902 and the second panel 2904. As
shown in FIG. 49B, the panel stitching 2908 generally extends
vertically along the entire seam 2906 of the brush cover 2900. On
the other side, shown in FIG. 49C, the panel stitching 2908 only
extends from the opening 2934 to the retention portion 2960. The
retention portion 2960 comprises an elastic member 2928 that is
coupled to both the first panel 2902 and the second panel 2904. The
elastic member 2928 allows the first panel 2902 to separate from
the first panel 2904 in order to store a makeup brush within the
brush cover 2900. Having shown and described various versions of
the protective brush cover, further adaptations of the methods and
systems described herein may be accomplished by appropriate
modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing
from the scope of the protective brush cover. Several of such
potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be
apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, the examples,
versions, geometries, materials, steps, and the like discussed
above are illustrative and are not required. Accordingly, the scope
of the protective brush cover should be considered in terms of the
following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details
of structure and operation shown and described in the specification
and drawings.
* * * * *