Abstract: A seasonal display in a characteristic shape such as a Christmas tree or wreath formed by a pliable backing sheet allowing roll up storage densely covered with artificial evergreen garlands. A formable wire is disposed in a hem of the backing sheet to form a frame to stabilize its shape, with a depth effect enabled by curving the bottom edge of the Christmas tree. A plurality of the displays can be detachably connected together to form a three-dimensional display viewable from all sides.

Abstract: An antenna support structure is in the form of a tree. The structure includes an armature and a plurality of pipes connected to the armature to define a skeleton. A layer of epoxy is applied over the skeleton and is surface molded to resemble the bark of actual tree trunks, limbs and branches. Artificial foliage is then assembled to the limbs and branches to resemble the leaves or needles of a tree. Antenna mounting assemblies are joined to the skeleton and positioned so that the receiving and transmitting antennas mounted thereon are largely hidden from view by the limbs, branches and foliage of the tree. The materials from which the limbs, branches and foliage are fabricated have been specifically selected so as to not interfere with the radio signals being transmitted from or received by the antennas. The antenna support structure is capable of supporting antennas in an inconspicuous manner which does not detract from the aesthetics of the location in which it is installed.

Abstract: A decorative ornament that is constructed generally in the shape of a bow, flower or tree which is formed by wrapping a first section of sheet material on a rigid core. The first section includes a plurality of spaced apart cuts which extend between a solid upper border and a solid lower border. When the first section is folded over upon itself with the borders abutting, the material located between the cuts each form a loop. The first section is basically in the shape of a truncated cone with the left edge being of a short length and the right edge being of a longer length. The first section is to be overlapped with the borders abutting and then wrapped on the core. Wrapping in a direct overlapping arrangement will produce one type of ornament and wrapping longitudinally along the core will produce another type of ornament. Also, different types of decorative ornaments are produced when the wrapping starts with the short edge or the long edge.

Abstract: A Christmas tree skirt support for supporting a decorative Christmas tree skirt around the base of a Christmas tree. The preferred embodiment is constructed of plastic in a grid pattern so that the Christmas tree skirt is supported away from contact with the Christmas tree, the Christmas tree stand, and the water reservoir while allowing access through the openings in the grid to the water reservoir for refilling. The skirt support may be dissambled to one or more flat pieces for storage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an artificial Christmas tree which can be assembled on virtually any surface, including an uneven surface, and then adjusted to a true vertical position. The artificial Christmas tree comprises a vertical trunk member secured to a swivel base, a plurality of side arms, a plurality of bottom arms and a locking arrangement which enables the side arms and bottom arms to be quickly and easily detachably connected to the vertical trunk member and to each other. Once assembled, the artificial Christmas tree can be adorned with Christmas decorations, such as strings of Christmas lights by means of a fastening system located on each side arm. The artificial Christmas tree of the present invention is particularly useful for outdoor use since it can assembled on uneven ground and then adjusted to a true vertical position. The locking arrangement further allows the artificial Christmas tree to be simply folded upon itself for storage.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and manufacture of creating an ornamental miniature tree comprising a decorated pine cone that has been treated with a fire retardant, strung with miniature holiday lights and uprightly attached to a base.

Abstract: A decorative, action oriented ornament/display system is attained by providing an attention-attracting member which cooperates with a support platform or plate which is removably mounted to any limb or branch of a tree. By employing this construction, an ornament display system is realized which is quickly and easily mounted to a tree, whenever desired, or removed therefrom for display on any other surface. In the preferred embodiment, the ornament/display member incorporates interlock means formed on the support plate for removably affixing the ornament/display member to the support plate whenever desired. Furthermore, the ornament/display member also preferably incorporates a stowable hook or ring member cooperatively associated with the upper portion of the ornament/display member for enabling the ornament/display member to be affixed to a supporting branch or limb independently of the platform.

Abstract: A collapsible artificial tree adapted to be supported at a top portion has compliant open mesh material approximately forming a conical shape. A plurality of axially spaced outer hoops defines the substantially conical shape of the tree with smaller inner hoops axially located between the outer hoops providing the artificial tree with the characteristic sawtooth profile of a coniferous tree. The mesh material may be in the form of netting, slit or perforated sheet material, or other readily compliant material.

Abstract: An artificial holiday tree arrangement is disclosed herein which incorporates different elements associated with the Christmas season. The arrangement is comprised of an artificial Christmas tree, which incorporates a scent producing element therein, as well as an illuminated tree-top ornament, all electrically connected to an electric current producing means. Optionally, the arrangement can also incorporate a sound producing means in the tree trunk body or the tree support, to supply holiday music. All the elements of the holiday tree arrangement are connected to and controlled by a control box attached thereto.

Abstract: Camouflage sheet material is formed by sandwiching a resilient core material between an inner and an outer layer of fabric or the like, and providing a series of irregularly spaced seams across the material to compress the resilient material along the seams and provide a three dimensional, textured appearance resembling the bark of a tree. The inner and outer layers may be a natural or synthetic fabric, and the core material may be a natural as synthetic fiber or foam material. Multiple layers of the core material may be used for greater depth in the external three dimensional texture, and/or greater insulating properties. The outer layer of material may be patterned with different colors or shadings for greater realism, and may include leaf patterns sporadically placed thereon for greater realism. The sewing process may be automated by gang sewing the seams with pattern repeats.

Abstract: A method for preventing cracks in bamboo canes subjected to drying comprises longitudinally cutting open the bamboo cane along its entire length, allowing the cut cane to dry to a desired residual moisture content, and sealing the resulting longitudinal gap by adhesively bonding into the longitudinal gap a multi-section filler strip. The longitudinal gap may be milled out to produce desired dimensioning and shaping. The strip may also be mechanically attached to the cane by clips, screws or dowels. The cane may be optionally chemically pretreated before drying.

Abstract: An illuminated artificial tree and its method of manufacture in which a plurality of branches extend from a trunk of the tree, each branch being formed by spirally winding a strip assembly of a plurality of juxtaposed fiber optic elements and simulated pine needles on an elongated support wire. The fiber optic elements and simulated pine needles extend around the wire in adjacent relation to provide an interspersed array of pine needles and fiber optic elements all along the length of the branch. The fiber optic elements are illuminated at the base of the tree to provide points of light substantially all around each branch along its entire length. A member of branches are assembled along the trunk from the top down.

Abstract: A collapsible artificial Christmas tree has a center pole erectable on a base, a cap that fits over the top of the pole, and a spiral coil of split plastic tubing, which extends upward to form a conical shape when the cap is placed on the pole. The split plastic tubing carries an electrical wire inside the tubing with sockets and bulbs extending outwardly between edges of the tubing at intervals. Stringers in the form of plastic line are connected to the base and cap as well as to the split tubing to cause the spiral coil to assume the proper shape. In addition to serving as a tree stand, the base and its cover provide a storage box in which the spiral coil and other parts of the tree are stored. The use of metal parts in proximity to electrical wires is avoided.

Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree has a trunk. The trunk has a branch retaining rod and a plurality of branch retaining ports in the branch retaining rod. There is a branch retaining rod horizontal support member releasably attached to one end of the branch retaining rod. A branch retaining rod vertical support member is attached to another end of the branch retaining rod. There are a plurality of flexible branches. Each flexible branch has a flexible member and a plurality of artificial needles retained in the flexible member. The flexible member has an insertion end for insertion into a branch retaining port. There is an ornament retaining member releasably attached to the flexible branches. The ornament retaining member has a hinged retaining clip and a spring. The spring is attached to and biases the hinged retaining clip from an open position to an closed position.

Abstract: A collapsible cone structure includes a base, an upright support and a spiral coil. The coil is shiftable between a supported, cone-shaped extended configuration and a flattened configuration which may be easily stored or transported. Preferably the structure includes a detachable theme head including a support, a plurality of coil segments and a vertically adjustable coupling pin. Other preferred forms include detachable wings.In particularly preferred forms, the cone structure includes a base, a spiral coil, and a fastener. The coil is shiftable between a cone-shaped resting configuration and a flattened extended configuration which may be latched in place.

Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree has a trunk member. The trunk member has an elongated rod that has at least two threadingly disconnectable sections. There are a plurality of elongated limb storage chambers in the elongated rod. A stabilizational plate is attached to one end of the elongated rod to horizontally stabilize the elongated rod. A vertical structure support member is attached to another end of the elongated rod to vertically stabilize the elongated rod. There are a plurality of flexible limb members stored within the elongated limb chambers that slidingly traverse within and adjustably extend from the elongated storage chambers.

Abstract: A toy (2) with Velcro.TM. covering the visible surface, and holders (10, 18) also with Velcro.TM. areas. The holders are arranged as receptacles for small items, such as hair bows, combs and barrettes, and the holders may be attached to the toy in decorative, playful and creative ways providing a combination toy and decorative storage facility. The toy is preferably a stuffed animal.

Abstract: A base and at least one extension tube are arranged for coaxially aligned relationship relative to one another mounted to an underlying support stand. The apparatus includes a plurality of branch rods, each having a matrix of branch rod bristles, with each branch rod mounted relative to a single bracket of a plurality of mating brackets to position the branch rods at acute angles relative to the base and extension tubes. Optional apparatus of the invention includes a scent dispenser structure directing scent through the base and extension tube directed through mesh webs within the tubes.

Abstract: An artificial tree suitable for interior or exterior use capable of being formed in a variety of possible configurations simulative of a natural palm tree. The artificial tree has a body consisting of a trunk with one or more branch segments joined thereto, a plurality of leaf assemblies joined to the upper end of each branch segment, and a base for retaining ballast material capable of supporting the tree in a generally upright orientation. To enhance the appearance and stability of the tree, triangularly shaped trunk support members may be attached to the lower end of the trunk. Similarly, simulative decaying fronds joined to the upper end of each branch segment enhance appearance. Leaf assemblies having nested leaves of metallic sheet material provide shade. The base, having attached seat members, permits users to sit comfortably beneath the shade provided by the instant tree.

Abstract: An ornamental Christmas display comprising a triangular backing sheet of pliant, easily rolled up material densely covered on one side with garland segments to create a wall hung Christmas tree display. Ornaments, and electric or battery lights further enhance the Christmas tree impression. A central panel of fabric is attached on the lower edge, which is gathered up by contact with a floor or table surface to suggest a draped tree base. The backing sheet has openings into which the garland segments are hooked and which also receive ornament mounting loops.

Abstract: A collapsible cone structure includes a base, an upright support and a spiral coil. The coil is shiftable between a supported, cone-shaped extended configuration and a flattened configuration which may be easily stored or transported. Preferably the structure includes a detachable theme head including a support, a plurality of coil segments and a vertically adjustable coupling pin. Other preferred forms include detachable wings.In particularly preferred forms, the cone structure includes a base, a spiral coil, and a fastener. The coil is shiftable between a cone-shaped resting configuration and a flattened extended configuration which may be latched in place.

Abstract: A Christmas tree is provided with a planar rigid wall arranged for securement to a vertical wall surface within a dwelling. The invention is arranged to include support latches cooperative with sockets to position the tree rigid wall to the vertical wall of the dwelling.

Abstract: An illuminated artificial tree and its method of manufacture in which a plurality of branches extend from a trunk of the tree, each branch being formed by spirally winding a strip assembly of a plurality of juxtaposed fiber optic elements and simulated pine needles on an elongated support wire. The fiber optic elements and simulated pine needles extend around the wire in adjacent relation to provide an interspersed array of pine needles and fiber optic elements all along the length of the branch. The fiber optic elements are illuminated at the base of the tree to provide points of light substantially all around each branch along its entire length. A member of branches are assembled along the trunk from the top down.

Abstract: A method of fabricating model trees and plants for decorating a diorama. The model is made from stacking foliage disks on a telescoping dowel, which functions as an imitation trunk. First, an outline of leaves and branches is drawn within a panel on paper. Next, the outline is shaded in to obtain a silhouette thereof. Numerous foliage disks can be clustered on a single panel to conserve space and to facilitate mass production. The silhouette is photographed to obtain a reverse image. Then through photolithography and etching, a metal template of the reverse image is made. The template is overlaid on a wood veneer having a kraft paper backing, and is laser cut. After laser cutting, each foliage disk can be separated from the veneer sheet. An assembly hole is provided in each foliage disk to facilitate attachment to the dowel. In an alternative embodiment, the trunk can be fashioned from braided wire with one end that is unraveled and flared outwards.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a composite artificial log for use in gas-fired artificial log fireplace assemblies or stoves, and more particularly, to a composite artificial log which has a ceramic concrete section molded to resemble a real log and having a relatively high thermal conductivity, which radiates a substantial amount of heat to the surroundings when heated, and one or more ceramic fiber sections having a relatively low thermal conductivity, which glow visibly when heated above about 1470.degree. F.

Abstract: The present invention is a Christmas display (10) resembling a ski-lift and ski-slope, for use in conjunction with a Christmas tree (92). The display (10) comprises a track (12) having a first end (14) and a second end (16), wherein the first end is at a higher elevation than the second end, and a lift (18) disposed between the first end (14) and the second end (16). The device also comprises a plurality of figurines (30) having a base configured for slidable movement along track (12) from the first end of track (12) to the second end of track (12) whereby the lift (18) transports the figurine (30) back to the first end (14) of the track (12) in a continuous manner. In the preferred embodiment, the display also comprises a support mechanism (90) for supporting the display on a Christmas tree.

Abstract: A mobile decorative part of a Christmas tree ornament is orbited around a stationary decorative part by an electrical motor locked onto the stationary decorative part.

Abstract: A novel mechanism and related processes for joining naturally grown and artificially produced parts to create aesthetically appealing, naturally appearing, large artificial plants, such as trees. A novel joint mechanism provides the appearance of naturally occurring outgrowth of branches and the like from proximally disposed trunks and stems. A method for bending and forming artificial foliage provides a more airy, naturally appearing leaf pattern around the crown of a plant.

Abstract: A method of forming artificial vegetation, and products formed by the method. Foam particles are adhesively combined to form a cohesive mass. This mass may be placed in a mold cavity and dried to form a final product, such as an artificial bush, when removed from the mold. The cohesive mass may alternatively be dried and shredded to form members, each of which includes a plurality of the foam particles. These members may also be used as a final product, such as an artificial bush. The members may alternatively be fixed to the limbs of an artificial tree trunk to form an artificial tree. The artificial tree trunk may be molded of plastic into an intermediate form which is then bent to the final form. Solvent may be applied to the plastic tree trunk to make it tacky for application of the foam members.

Abstract: An artificial frond for use with artificial plants has an elongate rod for providing structural integrity. A plurality of elongate leaves, each having a first end in engagement with the rod, extend outwardly from the rod. The first end of each of the leaves includes an aperture extending therethrough. The rod extends through the aperture of each of the leaves for attaching the leaves to the rod. A stem portion surrounds the rod and is in engagement with the first end of the leaves for firmly securing the leaves to the rod such that the stem portion and the leaves are formed generally in the shape of a frond.

Abstract: A color changing transparent plate device comprises transparent plates facing each other with a gap between the plates, the gap being charged with a plurality of fluids having colors and relative densities different from each other and freely moving vertically and a fluid inlet/outlet device through which fluid flows into or out from the gap installed in order to hold an interface of the fluids with freely moving vertically wherein the colorless transparent is contained as the color, wherein the fluid above the interface is a gas and the fluid below the interface is a liquid, wherein the fluids above and below the interface are liquids, wherein the liquids are a transparent liquid and an opaque liquid, wherein the liquids are a colorless transparent liquid and a colored transparent liquid, wherein a spacer is installed in the gap and the spacer and the facing transparent plates are attached, and wherein a fluid inlet/outlet device is formed by a fluid inlet/outlet cylinder and a piston.

Abstract: Fireplace logs (10-10A) for simulating a wood burning fire using a fuel log (18) which is economical, readily available, and safer than gas, and which requires minimal cleaning effort, while maintaining the desired qualities of a wood burning fire such as flame quality, sound, and smell. The fireplace logs (10-10A) include a first and second non-combustible ceramic log (12-14) in a spaced apart fashion such that a fuel log (18) may be centrally placed. Top logs (16-44-60) are placed above the fuel log (18) and engage at least a portion of the first and second logs (12 and 14). Openings (50-52-62) are defined between the logs (12-14-16-44-60) and cooperate with opening (53) to enhance the flow of air to the fuel log (18) and to cause the flame (26) derived from the burning fuel log (18) to lick the third log (16) to give an appearance of a wood burning fire.

Abstract: A novel mechanism and related processes for joining naturally grown and artificially produced parts to create aesthetically appealing, naturally appearing, large artificial plants, such as trees. A novel joint mechanism provides the appearance of naturally occurring outgrowth of branches and the like from proximally disposed trunks and stems. A method for bending and forming artificial foliage provides a more airy, naturally appearing leaf pattern around the crown of a plant.

Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree (10) which simulates a decorated real Christmas tree is disclosed comprising a base stake (26) for insertion in the ground, an upstanding trunk (12) having an enlarged diameter lower trunk portion (24) connected at the bottom to the stake (26) and terminating at its upper end in a smaller diameter upper trunk portion (30), a hoop (14) encircling the trunk (12) at the upper end of the enlarged diameter lower trunk portion (24), angularly spaced-apart spokes (16) connected between the hoop (14) and trunk (12) for holding them in concentric relation, upper guys (18) extending between the hoop (14) and the upper trunk portion (30), and lower guys (22) for connection between the hoop (14) and the ground to stabilize the hoop (14) and trunk (12). Intermediate guys (20) are connected between the hoop (14) and a point of the trunk (12) substantially midway between the spokes (16) and the top of the trunk.

Abstract: This invention relates to a decorative tree structure with a cluster of leaves, which is easily removed when pulled straight up and is difficult to remove when pulled from the side. The resulting tree structure is safe, durable, easily assembled and disassembled, and particularly adapted to blend in with the furniture of the room in which it is placed.

Abstract: An artificial palm tree apparatus comprises a trunk, having a cylindrically shaped axial cavity, a cylindrically shaped cap having a plurality of cylindrically shaped ferrules rigidly secured to the outer cylindrical surface of the cap such that the axis of each of the ferrules is substantially parallelly aligned with the axis of the cap, a plurality of fronds, and a support tube. The trunk is constructed of long strips of glass fibers embedded in hardened resin. Each of the fronds is constructed of a rod and a plurality of artificial leaves spaced along the rod and secured thereto with an all-weather tape. One of each of the fronds is inserted through one of the ferrules and rigidly secured thereto by tightening a pair of nuts on a threaded end of a respective rod against opposite ends of the respective ferrule. The trunk is installed by embedding a portion of the support tube in the ground and telescoping the trunk cavity over the portion of the support tube extending upwardly from the ground.

Abstract: A tree model is made of synthetic resin and surfaces of stem portion, branch portions and leaves of the tree model are covered with a green light emitting inorganic phosphor and additional decoration models to be mounted on the branch portions or leaves of the tree model are made of synthetic resin and are formed in a variety of models of various kinds of goods such as furits, bells and the like and the surfaces of the various models are covered with an inorganic phosphor emitting a variety of colors consisting of at least one kind chosen from a red light emitting phosphor, green light emitting phosphor and blue light emitting phosphor and these tree model and the additional decoration models are seen as white under the visible rays of light but the inorganic phosphor emits light when irradiated with ultraviolet rays, and the light emitting is taken place with color in red, green, blue, yellow, pink or orange according to kinds of the inorganic phosphor applied on the tree model and the additional decoration

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a composite artificial log for use in gas-fired artificial log fireplace assemblies or stoves, and more particularly, to a composite artificial log which has a ceramic concrete upper section molded to resemble a real log and having a relatively high thermal conductivity, which radiates a substantial amount of heat to the surroundings when heated, and a ceramic fiber lower section having a relatively low thermal conductivity, which glows visibly when heated above about 1470.degree. F.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting artificial tree branches to an artificial tree trunk. A series of bracket guideways are adapted for pivotal engagement with a plurality of branch members for movement of each member between stowed and operative positions. Each branch engages a guideway notch which suspends the branch in an operative position radially from the tree trunk. As each branch member moves between stowed and operative positions, a guideway slot receives one leg of a branch so as to enable its elbow to pass through the guideway. Upon moving the branches into a stowed or an operative position, each branch member engages a guideway slot or notch, respectively, restricting radial rotation of the branch.

Abstract: A decorative garland is manufactured by feeding one or more strips of material to an elongated, rotatable mandrel having a longitudinal axis so that each strip of material makes a plurality of passes in the direction of the longitudinal axis as the mandrel is rotated to form a wound bundle having a plurality of layers. A length of tape having adhesive on both sides is secured lengthwise of the mandrel to the material wound onto the mandrel after each pass. At least one more pass is made so that the material is fixed to both sides of the tape. The wound bundle is then cut from the mandrel along a line in the direction of the longitudinal axis opposite the tape connection so that the wound bundle can be removed from the mandrel with every piece of material being disposed in direct adhesive contact with one of the lengths of adhesive tape so that the assembly will be completely held together during handling prior to a twisting step.

Abstract: A miniature tree sculpture wherein the leaves for the miniature tree are seeds or seed hulls adhesively bonded to an imitation branch structure which in turn is connected to the miniature tree truck. Seed hulls dyed different shades of green, red, orange and yellow provide a realistic miniature tree sculpture which is beautifully delicate, yet durable.

Abstract: A decorative wall hanging includes a molded, substantially rigid shell formed of plastic material, the shell being shaped to provide a simulated Christmas tree portion with an ornament on the top and a base on the lower end. The shell provides a forward face covered by a simulated pine garland to simulate a Christmas tree appearance. The shell provides a plurality of randomly located openings surrounded by generally cylindrical bores. A string of electric lights is mounted on the shell with sockets supported and adhesively secured in the bores. The bulbs project from the sockets forwardly of the bores and are at least partially covered by the garland so that the light from the bulbs is diffused. The ornaments can be tested for compact shipment and storage. For larger wall ornaments, the shell can be assembled in more than one piece.

Abstract: An ornamental device and a kit therefor. In the preferred embodiment, layers of ornamental balls with progressively decreasing diameters are threaded down a shaft and nested together to simulate a Christmas tree. The kit may further include a protective support having pockets for receiving the various balls, base, shaft and decorative pinnacle for the device.

Abstract: The method of forming a money tree or bush comprises the steps of providing at least two rod-like members; providing at least two bills of paper-like negotiable currency; accordion pleating each bill along the length thereof; pinching each pleated bill in the middle area of the accordion; securing each bill at the pinch to a rod-like member; and fanning out the accordion pleated sections of each pleated bill around the place of securement to one of the rod-like members to form a structure looking like an imitation green and white leaf or flower. The money tree or bush formed thereby includes at least two rod-like members and at least two fanned out pleated bills formed in the manner described.

Abstract: A description is given of artificial vegatation or plants or parts for the same in the form of lawns or trees and branches covered with leaves or needles, or alternatively ice or snow. Such vegetation or plants are used in the design of landscape accessories for model railways, architectural models, trick and fairytale films and the like. The plants for the green areas or the leaves of the foliage are fixed by gluing with a regular or irregular density distribution to a net-like fibrous union, which is firmly or removably placed on the branches of a tree or bush, or on a large-area substrate. The leaves of a tree are advantageously formed from several fibrous union portions provided on the edges with cut open net meshes. It is important for this design that the foliage is shaped from suitable flat material in symmetrically repeating manner so as to simulate the natural shapes of foliage.

Abstract: A plurality of artificial trees placed in combination with a plurality of vehicle parking spaces, the parking spaces being disposed in an array of adjacently disposed parking spaces forming a parking area. The trees further include a base with an open cylinder for receiving the trunk of a tree and holding the tree in an upright position. The base is positioned at one lateral side of a parking space so that each base is positioned across the parking space from an adjacent base. Branches are attached at the top of the trunk at about six feet above ground level. The branches are disposed to extend across about one-half the width of each of the adjacently disposed parking spaces. The entire parking space is shaded from the sun by the branches of the tree.

Abstract: A gas burner assembly for a fireplace is shown. The assembly is operative to produce a flickering yellow flame pattern which closely resembles to that produced by a natural wood log fire, yet there is virtually no formation of carbon monoxide gas in the ignition. The assembly generally comprises four artificial logs arranged in a predetermined spaced relationship to a gas burner. The gas burner consists of a rectangular opened top casing having distribution means for emitting a gas and air mixture through its top. The artificial log comprises a flexible metal tube wrapped with a ceramic fibre blanked which is impregnated with a colloidal compound and thermally cured. The surface of the log is textured and painted to simulate the appearance of a natural wood log. Flame deflectors are provided either above or in the burner to baffle direct flame impingement on the logs so that the flames rise to a relatively high level above the logs to provide a full visibility of the flame in the fireplace.

Abstract: The liquid light tree is a completely new method of constructing and enhancing the beauty in central symbol of the Christmas season. The tree consists of a skeleton of colorful, wavy, treelike strands (36) of material which are curved to match the outline of a traditional Christmas tree. These strands (36) are pivoted around a center pole (30) to form the image of a hollow, transparent tree. The effect of blinking lights is produced by pumping a liquid down the skeleton of wavy strands (36). The quick beads of fluid dart in and out creating a sparkling visual effect. The flowing fluid is given additional effect in a dark setting much like a traditional tree. The tree has lights at the top and bottom of the tree which enhances the fluid flow. The beads of fluid reflect the light and give the impression that each bead is a light in itself moving quickly down the tree replaced again and again by other beads of liquid light.

Abstract: A method and composition for the preservation of plants. The composition comprises a preservative and a facilitator to increase the rate of aspiration of the preservative by the plant. The preferred preservative is glycerine and the preferred facilitator is dimethyl sulfoxide. Two processes for systemic application of the preservative composition are disclosed.

Abstract: Artificial tree limb, and the finished tree from an assemblage of such limbs, each limb including twigs comprising a twisted pair of wires entrapping fire-retardant filaments to simulate needles, the plurality of twigs being affixed to a heavier wire or wires by wrapping the base of the twigs to the heavier wire to form a branch, and a plurality of branches twisted together at the base thereof, or attached to a heavier wire, all having wrappings at the point of attachment, to form a limb, and a plurality of limbs attached to a vertical trunk or wrapped together at the base of each limb to form a tree.