Abstract: Methods are disclosed for making abrasive articles including decorative patterns. In one embodiment, the method includes printing inks or dyes onto an upper surface of a foam sheet to create a decorative pattern thereon, and bonding abrasive material over the decorative pattern, the abrasive material being translucent or transparent such that the decorative pattern is visible through the abrasive material. In another embodiment, the method includes providing a base layer, mixing abrasive material with binder material, one or more pigments, and a blowing agent, applying the first mixture to one or more regions of an upper surface of the base layer in a predetermined pattern, and curing the first abrasive mixture such that the blowing agent is activated to create an expanded abrasive layer on the upper surface of the base layer that has a thickness greater than adjacent regions of the upper surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aesthetically appealing nail file/buffer comprising a core with an abrasive surface on at least one side of the core and a durable, decorative pattern or design. Preferably, the tool has a core which includes a substantially rigid substrate and at least one layer of resilient material laminated to the substrate. Abrasive material is adhered to at least one side of the core, and glitter may be mixed with the abrasive material. The tool preferably includes materials, such as substantially transparent plastics or gels, possibly with colored pigment, which create a unique, attractive nail file. The tool typically includes a colored pattern, preferably by embedding dyes into the hiatused abrasive surface of the tool using sublimation. Alternatively, the tool may incorporate a patterned sheet under the abrasive material, the abrasive material being composed of substantially clear materials allowing the pattern to show therethrough.

Abstract: The present invention relates to floor mats, particularly to cushioned floor mats which incorporate a patterned or colored material layer. The present invention comprises a cushioned backing layer of rubber or other thermoplastic elastomer, and a substantially clear top layer of thermoplastic material such as polyvinyl chloride. The present invention further comprises an intermediate substrate layer between the backing and top layers. The intermediate layer preferably comprises a colorful or patterned substrate which is visible through the substantially clear top layer and which provides the mat with an aesthetically pleasing appearance. It is further preferred that the substantially clear top layer include a scuff-resistant surface preformed in the top layer or created by an abrasive process, such as sand blasting. The layers of the floor mat are fused under heat and/or pressure or are bonded using adhesives.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aesthetically appealing nail file/buffer comprising a core with an abrasive surface on at least one side of the core and a durable, decorative pattern or design. Preferably, the tool has a core which includes a substantially rigid substrate and at least one layer of resilient material laminated to the substrate. Abrasive material is adhered to at least one side of the core. The tool preferably includes materials, such as substantially transparent plastics or gels, possibly with colored pigment, which create a unique, attractive nail file. The tool typically includes a colored pattern, preferably by embedding dyes into the hiatused abrasive surface of the tool using sublimation. Alternatively, the tool may incorporate a patterned sheet under the abrasive material, the abrasive material being composed of substantially clear materials allowing the pattern to show therethrough.

Abstract: The present invention relates to floor mats, particularly to cushioned floor mats which incorporate a patterned or colored material layer. The present invention comprises a cushioned backing layer of rubber or other thermoplastic elastomer, and a substantially clear top layer of thermoplastic material such as polyvinyl chloride. The present invention further comprises an intermediate substrate layer between the backing and top layers. The intermediate layer preferably comprises a colorful or patterned substrate which is visible through the substantially clear top layer and which provides the mat with an aesthetically pleasing appearance. It is further preferred that the substantially clear top layer be subjected to an abrasive process, such as sand blasting, to render the surface substantially scuff-resistant.