Abstract: A manual mixing apparatus includes an elongate member extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end. The elongate member includes a first surface and a second surface separated by an opening or a flow passage therebetween. In one embodiment, the first surface and the second surface are concave so as to direct fluid towards the opening or flow passage. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a flow separating structure located in relationship to a flow passage such that fluid flowing through the flow passage is divided. In yet another embodiment, the apparatus includes a paddle portion and a conical surface coupled to the paddle portion.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an applicator for coatings such as paints, stains, varnish, and other such materials. The applicator may be a brush, foam, or other applicator as conventionally used for such materials. According to the present invention, the handle of the applicator is adapted to be received in the hand of a user when the hand is in a substantially relaxed posture, and supports the hand in the posture. The handle of an applicator made according to the present invention also may include visual or other aids to promote the use of a relaxed hand posture to hold the applicator.

Abstract: A paint roller cover includes a cylindrical core and a liquid applying medium coupled to the core. The core has an inner surface and an opposite outer surface. The core includes at least one gap between the inner surface and the outer surface.

Abstract: A method for forming a plurality of distinct paint applicators having a common exterior head configuration and distinct paint applying medium configurations includes forming a plurality of handles and forming a plurality of paint carrying units. Each handle formed includes a head having an exterior configuration and an interior having a mouth and head thickness between the exterior configuration and the mouth. Each paint carrying unit includes at least one paint applying medium coupled to a mounting portion that is disposed within an interior of one of the plurality of handles. The mounting portion has a mounting portion exterior configuration and a mounting portion thickness between the mounting portion exterior configuration and the paint applying medium. To form the plurality of distinct paint applicators, the configuration of the paint applying medium is varied while at least one of the head thickness and the mounting portion thickness is also varied.