Abstract: An apparatus for storing articles comprises a plurality of individual article support devices for supporting a plurality of articles independent of the side walls of a container. Each article support device comprises a first rack and a second rack. Each one of the racks comprises a first spine and a second spine, each spine having notches for receiving the peripheral surface of the articles. Each rack also has a plurality of openings formed in each rack disposed intermediately to each spine. At least one of the racks has a coupling mechanism for coupling the first spine and the second spine to form one of the racks for coupling to the other rack through one of the openings. The racks are coupled so that the spines of one of the racks are oriented approximately ninety degrees to the adjacent spines of the other rack.

Abstract: A method of making raised, embroidered design on a foundation fabric with top and bottom surfaces includes steps of placing a soluble spacer layer on the foundation fabric, embroidering a predetermined pattern over the stack of the foundation fabric and the spacer layer, and dissolving the soluble spacer layer away. Embroidering a predetermined pattern over the stack of the foundation fabric and the spacer layer is performed with a plurality of stitches of threads. Dissolving the soluble spacer layer away is performed with a predetermined solvent. The type of solvent is determined by the type of the soluble spacer layer. Water can be used for the solvent in case of starch spacer layer.

Abstract: A multi-component sponge has a central or main foam layer of reticulated single cell polyurethane flexible foam and an outer foam layer adhered to each of its two substantially parallel sides so that liquid can flow between the main foam layer and the two outer foam layers. Each of the two outer foam layers is preferably polyurethane flexible foam having a reticulated double cell structure although each could be a reticulated single cell structure having a porosity in the range of 3-110 pores per inch. The main foam layer preferably has a porosity in the range of 3-30 pores per inch. Each of the two outer foam layers is softer than the main foam layer.