Abstract: A method of printing sheer fabric is described. In accordance with the method, a supply of the sheer fabric and a supply of a release substrate having a width less than the width of the sheer fabric are provided. A low tack adhesive is applied to an endless belt. The sheer fabric and the release substrate are combined such that the edges of the fabric overhang the edges of the release substrate and the overhanging edges of the sheer fabric and the release substrate are temporarily affixed to the endless belt with the low tack adhesive. The combined sheer fabric and release substrate are conveyed on the endless belt through one or more printing stations where at least one color ink is printed on the sheer fabric. The ink is dried and the sheer fabric is separated from the release substrate.

Abstract: This invention provides a method and associated apparatus in which decorative ribbons of varying thickness, width, and material can be automatically produced, curled, grouped, and combined in a decorative element which is packaged for distribution. The apparatus serves to impart a helical curl to at least one of a plurality of ribbon strands, meters the strands into preselected lengths, separates the lengths from the ribbon stock, and packages the resulting coiled ribbon arrangements for distribution to customers. The apparatus includes one or more roll stands for storing rolls of ribbon stock, a feed unit for advancing the ribbon through the apparatus and imparting a tendency to curl the strands, a tension regulator unit for accumulating metered lengths of the stands and regulating the advancement of the ribbon strands through the apparatus, and a packaging unit for attaching the ribbon on a placard, to form a decorative element having a cluster of curled ribbon strands.

Abstract: A method and associated apparatus in which decorative ribbons of varying thickness, width, and material can be automatically curled. The apparatus serves to impart a tendency to curl the strand in a helical formation by drawing the ribbon in a helical path around a curling tube. The tube is divided into two parts, so that the first part heats the ribbon while in a helical configuration and the second part cools the ribbon while still in the helical configuration, thereby setting into the ribbon material a tendency to curl. The helical path on the tube is defined between convolutions of a helically-wound fin on the exterior of the tube. The tube is hollow and has apertures opening into the helical path, so that temperature-controlled air may be blown into the two parts of the path through the hollow interior of the tube.