Abstract: A mechanical beading system is disclosed. Specifically, the beading system rotates a stiff but flexible beading wire inside an appropriately-shaped container of beads, causing them to slide onto the open end of the beading wire. The beading wire engages the beading mechanism with an endpiece which also allows the beading wire to be removeably fixed in place to complete the work.

Abstract: A new toy for young children incorporating a coil feature is disclosed. A coil preferably an expansion spring, is covered with a sleeve. A head is then affixed to the coil, either directly or to the sleeve as an intermediary, forming the toy. The sleeve may also be extended past the end of the coil, forming a soft tail.

Abstract: An illusory liquid apparatus is disclosed which provides the illusion of an item appearing and disappearing. An illusory item is suspended in a translucent or opaque fluid, and raised and lowered to alternatively be visible at the top of the fluid, and hidden under the surface of the fluid. Also disclosed is a new means for moving the illusory item by means of magnetic attraction. A magnetic attractor is placed in the illusory item, and magnetic attraction is used to raise and lower the illusory item. Alternatively, liquid may be moved to alternatively cover a fixed illusory item and then reveal it, or a mechanical linkage used to raise and lower the illusory item in the liquid. A new configuration for an illusory liquid apparatus is also disclosed in which the completely sealed outer body and inner vessel of the illusory liquid apparatus avoids the use of complex mechanical linkages.

Abstract: A textured surface improvement for puzzles is disclosed. A flocking material is applied to selected areas of a multi-piece puzzle. If the puzzle portrays an image, the areas and flocking are matched to provide greater realism and entertainment value. The flocking material also guides the user and makes the puzzle easier to reassemble.