Abstract: A novel earplug is disclosed. The earplug comprises an elastomeric insert and a metal casing. The elastomeric insert is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a first end and a second end. The metal casing is substantially cylindrical in shape and comprises a circular outer wall, an internal cavity disposed within the circular outer wall, and a first end and a second end disposed the opposite end of the first end. The first end has a substantially flat base covering the first end and the second end has an opening into the internal cavity. The first end of the elastomeric insert is disposed through the second end of the metal casing and is secured with an adhesive within the internal cavity of the metal casing. The second end of the elastomeric insert extends outward from the metal casing.

Abstract: A novel earplug is disclosed. The earplug comprises an elastomeric insert and a metal casing. The elastomeric insert is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a first end and a second end. The metal casing is substantially cylindrical in shape and comprises a circular outer wall, an internal cavity disposed within the circular outer wall, and a first end and a second end disposed the opposite end of the first end. The first end has a substantially flat base covering the first end and the second end has an opening into the internal cavity. The first end of the elastomeric insert is disposed through the second end of the metal casing and is secured with an adhesive within the internal cavity of the metal casing. The second end of the elastomeric insert extends outward from the metal casing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for carrying and storing a portion of rope is claimed. A portion of rope is braided and wound about two complementary loops. Attached to one complementary loop is a flexible fastener. The flexible fastener can be passed through the second complementary loop and attached to itself. The apparatus can then be worn as a bracelet. When the rope is needed, the person can unwind the rope. After using the rope, the rope can be rewound and then bound with the flexible fastener.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for carrying and storing a portion of rope is claimed. A portion of rope is braided and wound about two complementary loops. Attached to one complementary loop is a flexible fastener. The flexible fastener can be passed through the second complementary loop and attached to itself. The apparatus can then be worn as a bracelet. When the rope is needed, the person can unwind the rope. After using the rope, the rope can be rewound and then bound with the flexible fastener.

Abstract: A method for operating a tattoo studio includes identifying a customer selection of a tattoo design and a bin designator for a stencil for the tattoo design; locating a storage bin containing a stencil for the tattoo design; and scanning a bar code assigned to the stencil. The method can also include scanning at least a second barcode associated with a tattoo enhancement including a non-standard paint, an additional paint color, or a mixture of paint colors. Inventory control is verified using a match code and pre-packaged sets of numbered stencils.

Abstract: A method for operating a tattoo studio includes identifying a customer selection of a tattoo design and a bin designator for a stencil for the tattoo design; locating a storage bin containing a stencil for the tattoo design; and scanning a bar code assigned to the stencil. The method can also include scanning at least a second barcode associated with a tattoo enhancement including a non-standard paint, an additional paint color, or a mixture of paint colors. Inventory control is verified using a match code and pre-packaged sets of numbered stencils.