Bandana headwear with flexible headband, having options of reversibility, attachable visor, attached cap and 3-way visor

Abstract

Bandana Headwear, for all ages, is attractive, versatile, easily produced, having numerous uses and advantages. First, the flexible plastic headband, conforming comfortably to head, is removable for washing. Second, there are two ways to wear Bandana. Third, the optional, attached Visor may be worn three ways: extended outward, over top of Bandana, or tucked underneath. Fourth, Bandana and Visor are reversible when either has two fabric layers sewn together. Fifth, incorporating reversible Bandana with 3-way Visor allows twelve different looks. Sixth, larger Bandana with inner cap, completely covering head, was designed for those with total hair loss. This version, combining two end-tying methods and 3-way Visor, provides six different looks. Seventh, an attachable Visor, fastened with Velcro, enables consumer to buy one Visor, wear with one or more of invention's Bandana styles without Visor or with any headwear with no Visor, unrelated to present invention.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Due to the fact that I had never seen or heard of anything even remotely similar to my invention at the time of it's conception, nor at the time when I decided it should be patented, it is necessary that I start the background segment from my personal perspective.

My intention was to expand on an idea I had ten years ago when I wondered why no one had invented a bandana with a flexible headband. I always wanted to wear a bandana, but couldn't keep one on my head as they kept slipping off. I was sure many others had the same problem, but I was not able to pursue this idea at the time. Fast forward to the summer of 2004, with more time to spare than in past years, too many ‘bad hair days’ to count and other reasons to pursue this endeavor. Not aware at the time that I could contact USPTO directly, I enlisted the services of an online company to send in my Provisional Patent application and also my Trademark application. I soon learned the error of this decision, as they had not advised I should use a more descriptive title for the Provisional Patent (instead of my ‘Trademark’ name), they failed to send the revision I sent them and didn't send me a copy of what was sent to USPTO until months later, after numerous requests for It. This was when I learned of the errors and had to quickly file a new Provisional Patent with the revisions they had not used. A month earlier I had filed another Provisional Patent myself for a version of headwear for persons who had lost their hair and learned that I would be able to incorporate my Provisional Patents into one Utility Patent.

When I became aware of the many services of USPTO online, I began to search for prior art. I have found two that are similar, but my invention is different in many respects, with additional features, which gives my application validity. The two I found are: U.S. Pat. No. 5,542,127 (Bezanis) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,956 (Barrientos). Both of these inventions are Bandana styles and have good features; however they do not incorporate the flexible plastic, removable headband, are not reversible, with the capability of having 2 to 12 looks with one purchase because of the versatile 3-way Visor plus another 6 looks due to the two ways of placement on head, having not allowed for the possibility of incorporating small weights at back for wind proofing, do not have the attachable Visor or the attached cap to cover the heads of persons who have lost their hair.

Being directly involved with producing the various styles and wearing the headwear most every day has resulted in various improvements after each of 3 provisional patents were filed.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

• • a. The Bandana Headwear is easily produced and most types of fabric may be utilized.
  • b. While protecting from the sun, at the same time, the fit is loose enough to allow air to circulate around and inside the headwear, particularly when natural fabrics are incorporated.
  • c. This Headwear may be used for many types of employment for protection and sanitary purposes.
  • d. When knits or other warm fabrics are used to make the Headwear, it is very suitable for cold weather wear. The knots cover the ears, keeping them as warm as the rest of the head.
  • e. The Headwear can be waterproofed, however even without doing so, it protects hair in light rain.
  • f. Bandana portion can be made almost wind-proof by simply adding two small weights in seam, near “v” in back.
  • g. Headwear folds easily and can be carried in a handbag, large pocket or packed in luggage without wrinkling.
  • h. Depending on the style and fabric chosen, Headwear can be worn for sports events, in the workplace, convertible vehicles, on the golf course, for water aerobics as well as some occasions where a dressier look is appropriate.
  • i. With each Bandana style, there are two different ways for it be worn as pertains to placement on head.
  • j. Incorporating the 3-Way Visor on a single-sided Bandana gives the wearer 6 different looks.
  • k. When the 3-Way Visor is sewn into the reversible Bandana, 12 completely different looks are possible.
  • l. One attachable 3-Way visor can be purchased in a neutral color and used with numerous Bandanas without a Visor or with other types of headwear with no Visor, unrelated to the present invention.
  • m. Persons without hair can now have a total covering for their head that is as attractive as it is protective and has the added features of 2 to 6 different looks with one purchase, depending on whether or not the 3-way Visor is used.
  • n. Utilizing accessories to dress up the Headwear is creative and fun for women and children.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Whereas it was the flexible, plastic headband that first came to mind when this idea was in it's earliest stages, which when inserted into the bandana headwear, can be worn in two ways, perhaps it is the versatile 3-Way Visor, that when included with the Reversible style headwear, making it possible to have twelve different looks, is what sets this invention apart from prior art of not only Bandana style headwear, but of all headwear styles in general. It further differs from other bandana styles in that the long ends of the bandana are tied in knots or secured by various type fasteners, at the sides of the head, near the ears. In the case of those who require the larger style to completely cover their head, there remains the option of tying the ends to each other behind the back of the head at the top of neck. The non-binding, flexible headband enables the Bandana headwear to stay in place and has the added attraction of allowing two different looks depending on the placement on the head.

Some styles of my invention may be more suitable for women and female children; however this headwear may be worn by men and boys, particularly the larger style that is tied behind the head, at the top of the neck, when a total head covering is desired to conceal hair loss and/or protect from the elements as when riding a motorcycle or working outdoors. Made out of any type or color of fabric, preferably washable, the headwear may have a logo or insignia included on the side or back and is useful for various types of employment where the hair needs to be covered for health and/or safety reasons.

It is necessary for the embodiments to have three parts, allowing the possibility for one or more companies to easily acquire licensing of one to three parts simultaneously, when applicable.

For example, a manufacturing firm who specializes in headwear for cancer patients would probably be interested only in the larger bandana with the attached inner cap and Visor. Another company may be interested in exclusively licensing the attachable Visor in order that it may be used with headwear they already manufacture.

Although the invention has been described with references of the embodiments which are illustrated in the drawings, one or more substitutions, additions and/or deletions may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as noted in the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Note: Measurements are given for the Headband, whereas other measurements will be given in the forthcoming details of the three embodiments.

FIG. 1 shows a side view of the longer version of the bandana-style headwear, with the dashed line representing the possibility that a Visor may be tucked underneath. See Note below.

FIG. 1A depicts the smallest version of the bandana on a child, revealing herewith that there is not enough fabric available for a knot to be tied and an elastic ponytail holder, in this case, is used to secure the bandana ends. 002A.

FIG. 2 depicts a front view of a shorter style bandana, worn in a manner that covers the ears. The 3-Way Visor is folded up over the top of the bandana like a cuff.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the headwear that includes a visor. As in FIG. 1, this version shows the longer version, when a reversible model is sewn without trimming the back portion of bandana. The dashed line shows where it would be trimmed for the shorter style.

FIG. 4 is a shorter style with a visor and shows how the headwear looks when worn back behind the ears. This gives a more casual appearance and automatically lifts the sides of the bandana out and up as is clearly shown.

Note: FIGS. 1-4 show the three ways to wear the versatile 3-Way Visor, with FIG. 1 showing it tucked under the bandana, thus invisible, when no visor is desired. FIG. 2 depicts the visor being worn up over the bandana as a cuff and FIGS. 3 & 4 show the visor being worn in the traditional manner, extended outward. FIGS. 1-4 show that when the two ways of wearing the bandana portion of headwear times the 3 way of wearing the Visor times two different sides (reversible model), there is a possibility of twelve different looks. FIGS. 1-4, with exception of FIG. 1A, further show all versions with knots tied at each end, which is the preferred method. However the ends can be secured to the bandana with Velcro, snaps or other method of securing fabrics now known or yet to be invented.

FIG. 5 is the triangular pattern from which to cut all the styles of headwear, except the larger version that completely covers the head, which is given another number later. This shows with dashed lines where the bandana is cut 004 & 007A, sewn and also shows the area which could be cut in a scalloped fashion. The two small circles 007AA show where two small weights can be sewn into the seam so that bottom of bandana has less chance to be blown up over top of head in excessive wind.

FIG. 6 is the Headband, made from flexible plastic, is 14½ inches long×½ inches wide×⅛ inches thick and is easily inserted into the opening in the top portion of the bandana when a large enough seam is sewn.

FIG. 7 depicts the side and back portion of a longer version of the bandana style. It further shows a logo insignia and fringe sewn to the side and back, to the left of the knot.

FIG. 7A shows the side and back of a reversible Bandana, utilizing an alternative type of securing long ends of the Bandana scarf with buttons on either side instead of being tied into knots. The dashed line shows where the same method is used on the reverse side.

FIG. 7B depicts the side and back of a single-sided Bandana, utilizing an alternative type of securing long ends of the Bandana scarf by means of two folds, first being folded front to back, and secured, then back to front and secured. The dashed line shows where the first fold is positioned on the reverse side.

FIG. 8 shows the headwear folded when not being worn. This view shows a reversible style, but all styles may be folded flat as drawing depicts. The dashed line shows where the Visor, when applicable, would be folded compactly inside.

FIG. 9 depicts the sewn version of the bandana style headwear, with an opening at the top through which the headband will be inserted. The dashed line form the seam where upon the Visor will be centered and stitched, when one is desired. This is also the line, below which, where Velcro strips 014 may be added, on reverse side, when an attachable Visor is purchased.

FIG. 10 shows the pattern for cutting the flexible interfacing insert for the Visor.

FIG. 11 shows the 3-Way Visor which can be made from any fabric, usually the same as the bandana part of the headwear when one is to be sewn on the bandana. The dashed lines show where it will be stitched.

FIG. 12, as well as FIGS. 13 to 15, shows the largest version of bandana headwear, the style that is used for those who need to cover up the entire head in the case of hair loss or protection from the elements. An attached cap is included in this version, the bottom 013 of which shows slightly, as well as the 3-Way Visor; in this view, it is tucked underneath the bandana. Double knots are tied at each of the long ends.

FIG. 12A depicts the back side of the largest version of bandana headwear being worn by a man. No visor is used and the ends 002 are tied behind head at top of neck..

FIG. 13 depicts the same as FIG. 12, except that the 3-Way Visor is worn extended.

FIG. 14. shows the same as FIG. 12, except that the 3-Way Visor is worn folded back over the top of the bandana headwear, like a cuff.

FIG. 15 also shows the larger version of the headwear, used for the same purpose (s) as those mentioned in FIG. 12. In this style, the ends of the bandana are pulled to the back of the head, top of neck, and tied. This version has the 3-Way Visor extended outward, however it, like those mentioned in FIGS. 12 to 14, may be folded underneath the top of the bandana when no Visor is desired and/or worn folder over the top of the bandana like a cuff.

Note: These drawings should make it clear that the larger version, though not reversible, has the capability to have 6 completely different looks with one headwear purchase due to the fact that there are two ways to tie the ends of the bandana and 3 ways to wear the Visor.

FIG. 16 shows where the Velcro strips should be placed on the finished attachable 3-Way Visor of claim 18.

FIG. 17 depicts the cap/visor assembly, once made, to be sewn inside the larger version of the bandana style for those who have lost their hair or wish to cover the entire head for other reasons. Two pieces of knit fabric are cut in this pattern. However only the top one is cut at the heavy dashed line 016. The other dashed lines show where the cap and Visor will be stitched to the second piece of fabric, and is explained fully in the details of the second embodiment.

FIG. 18 shows the pattern for the larger 3-Way Visor when it is desired that the Visor be of the same material as the bandana portion of the headwear. FIGS. 12 to 15. The dashed lines show where the two pieces of fabric that are needed for said Visor will be stitched.

FIG. 19 is the interfacing, or insert pattern for the larger version of the bandana headwear. It is made from the same material mentioned in FIG. 10.

FIG. 20 depicts the finished triangular portion of the larger style bandana with the opening for the Headband 023 A and the dashed line 023 whereon the cap and visor assembly will be stitched. When it is desired that the visor be made from the same fabric as the bandana headwear, the visor and cap are stitched together to the same seam that holds headband in place as shown with dashed line—023, yet allowing the headband to be inserted. It is preferable that a Visor be used with this style; however if one is not to be included, 003 B would be eliminated from FIG. 20.

FIG. 21 shows the pattern for the strip of knit or elasticized material, 12½″ long by 1½ ″ wide, that becomes the binding for the back portion of the cap (front part is stitched to top of bandana. 023. The dashed lines show where it is turned under and stitched to said portion of cap.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRST EMBODIMENT

(Note: Usually a 15″, 17″ or 22½″ square, is cut first, then the square is cut diagonally; forming a triangle. When 3 dimensions are given, smallest one is for toddlers and middle range is for older children.)

Referring first to the Single-sided Bandana 001 of FIG. 5, it is made from a triangular piece of any suitable type of washable, cut 15″, 17″ or 22½″ on the shorter side and 21¼″, 24″ or 31¾″ on the long side), the long end of this triangle 005 is turned under ¼″, secured down by ironing, then turned under 1″ again 006 to the back side of fabric, after which 1 ½″ to 2″ of both ends have been cut with pinking shears 004 and turned under ¼″. This seam 006, when stitched, is the area through which the headband will later be inserted. Using several pins to keep the seam intact, the shorter ends of the triangle 007 are folded doubly, usually ¼″ or smaller, normally done simultaneously as the seamstress sews. When it is desired that small lead weights be used to keep the back of bandana from being blown over the top of head in windy situations, they are inserted with washable glue inside the seam near the point at back of bandana before stitching. 007 AA. The seam would need to be slightly larger to accommodate weights.

All seams are then sewn, leaving the 1″ ends 010A, top, long part of bandana, FIG. 9, 010, open for headband FIG. 6 to be threaded through. FIG. 9 shows the finished single-sided bandana, dashed line 010 shows where the sewn seam goes. The three small rectangles 014 will be explained later. When logo or other insignia 009 and/or trim 001 T such as fringe, lace, etc is desired as in FIG. 7, it is sewn on at this time.

The optional, attached Visor as shown in FIG. 11, when desired, may then be centered and sewn on the reverse side, on same seam 006 as for headband. More details of Visor to follow.

The optional, attachable Visor, shown in FIG. 16, works well with the single-sided Bandana 001 style as the Velcro strips 014 are not seen when secured to the back side of Bandana, placed near the seam for headband as shown in FIG. 9, 010. The Headband shown in FIG. 6, which holds Bandana on head, presently used is “U” shaped, 14½ inches long×inches wide×⅛ inches thick. Easily molded of flexible plastic, the headbands are quite comfortable to wear as they bend easily to conform to the head. One size fits all comfortably, but a shorter one for toddlers would be preferable as there is not enough room left over at the top seam of triangle in order to tie a knot when the 14½″ headband is used. Hair clips, pony tail holders, or barrettes can be used to secure the headband; however a shorter headband would allow a knot to be tied. The headbands presently used are very comfortable to wear as they bend easily to conform to the head. It would be helpful for consumers to note on the purchase label that the headband is to be removed for machine washing, adding it could be left in place when washing by hand. A note on the reversible style could further state that it is not necessary to remove headband to wear on the reverse side. Instead one holds onto the bandana with forefinger and thumb of both hands positioned at top center of headband and flips the fabric over top the headband 180 degrees.

Once the headband shown in FIG. 6 is centered inside the seam, the length of fabric extending from both ends being exactly the same, said ends can be tied into knots 002, the preferred method. Another method is that the ends may be folded over, front to back, starting at the point where the headband ends, proceeding to the bottom of the bandana fabric and ending fold at the place where both folds match up horizontally. This fold (on back side of Bandana) would be secured by Velcro or snaps, as shown with dash lines in FIG. 7B, 002 CC. Fabric is then folded back over, back to front, 1½″, also secured by Velcro or snaps as shown in FIG. 7B, 002C. This alternative method only works with the adult size as there is not enough fabric for the folds in the smaller Bandana styles for children. Decorative items such as buttons, small flowers, sequins, etc. could be placed on this part for the women's styles. 002C

When knots are used and longer tails are desired, one would not snip the ends off, as shown in FIG. 5, 004, before sewing as previously described.

For the double-sided bandana, also known as the Reversible style, the same FIGS. 5 & 9 are used, but the method of sewing is slightly different, being that there are two pieces of fabric, each cut the same size. This style is usually made from two different colors and/or types of pre-washed fabric to ensure there is no bleeding of colors and/or shrinking, and cut 15″, 17″ or 22½″ on the shorter side and 21¼″, 24″ or 31¾″ on the long side. They are placed one on top of the other, right sides facing together. Several pins hold the fabric in place while, when first ironing, before sewing, the long side of each piece of fabric is turned under ¼″ as shown in FIG. 5, 005, from right side to back side of fabric. One and ½″ to 2″ are cut off both long ends 004 with pining shears and turned under ¼″. The two shorter sides 007 of triangle are stitched together on the wrong side, leaving one inch at the top, right before long end of triangle 006 where headband of FIG. 6 will be inserted later. When desired, this reversible style can easily have scalloped 008 or a zig zag edge. Then this stitched portion is turned right side out and pressed. The turned-under, horizontal part that was ironed earlier 005 is then matched up evenly, secured with several pins and sewn close to the edge, carefully, so that the color on the reverse side is not visible. The seam should be ¼″ from edge or less.

A second horizontal seam, 006 is then sewn one inch away from first seam 005 across the top of the long part of fabric. With this second seam sewn, there is now an opening 010A, FIG. 9, through which the headband of FIG. 6 can then be centered inside the seam. The length of fabric that extends from each end of headband must be exactly the same.

After the headband of FIG. 6 is centered inside the seam, the length of fabric extending from both ends of headband being exactly the same, said ends can either be tied into knots, the preferred method, or the ends can be turned under, front to back as in FIG. 7A, 002B. The dashed line 002 BB is where the same method is used on the reverse side. Decorative buttons, on both sides of fabric, work well with this style, but they need to be flat since the inside button would be against head of wearer. The first button hole is sewn near the opening for headband, close to seam and the second one, also near the seam for headband, is sewn approximately 4″ from the first one. If the fabric is thick, such as knit, velour, or others suitable for cooler weather, and can not easily be knotted, the ends may be closed by using various other means, such as elastic pony-tail holders, ribbons, hair clips, barrettes or whatever closure is desired. The latter is suitable for the toddler's Bandana headwear. When longer tails, hanging down from the knots are desired, one would not snip off the ends 004 before sewing as previously described.

Due to the fact that less fabric is turned under on the reversible headwear, it is longer in the back than the single-sided model. The headwear looks most attractive when the back length of the crown portion ends midway down at the back of head. For this reason it is desirable to slightly round off the back portion of the reversible bandana headwear as shown in FIG. 5, 007A, making the total width of the bandana about 2″ less than the singled-side version. Should a longer appearance (for the back part of the Bandana headwear) be desired, the “V”, pointed shape remains.

When the optional, attached Visor shown in FIG. 11, is to be used, it is centered, pinned between the two pieces of fabric and sewn to the Bandana before the two seams 005-006 of FIG. 5, which form the opening of the headband are sewn. The separate, attachable Visor of FIG. 16 does not work as well with the reversible headwear as the means to attach it such as Velcro brand or snaps, etc., would be visible on one of the sides.

Both the single-sided and reversible styles of the bandana headwear can be dressed up in a variety of ways. Flowers, iron-on embroidered items, buttons, ribbons and beads for example, can be added. If sold plain, though, the user could choose their own trim or leave unadorned.

Both styles can also be folded flat when not being worn as shown in FIG. 8, with knotted ends 002 also lying flat. The Visor, when applicable, can be tucked inside 003. The headwear may easily be packed for traveling. When folded, it is compact enough to fit in a large pocket or handbag.

The Visor as shown in FIG. 11, 003, can be made from any fabric, usually the same as the bandana part of headwear, when it is be attached. For the reversible bandana headwear, the visor color should blend and not clash with the reverse side when one color visor is used. However, the Visor, since it is made from two pieces of cloth, can also be made with the same two colors or types of fabric as the bandana headwear. This would be the preferred method.

Rounded, like half an oval shape, with one straight edge, the women's size Visor 10¾″ long by 5¼″ wide and the children's size is 8¾″ long by 3¾″ wide. It is made by placing two pieces of fabric, with dimensions above, right sides together, then stitch a ¼″ seam around the curved portion of the visor, 011 leaving the straight edge 012 open. Turn right-side out, and iron. Place the flexible insert of FIG. 10 inside and after turning the straight edge 012 of both sides under ¼″, it is then ready to be centered on the inside of the completed single-sided bandana headwear or between both top edges of the reversible style and stitch both seams of Visor 012 and 012 A of FIG. 11 on the same seams 005 and 006 of FIG. 5 as the ones for headband. Instead of sewing the seam 012 of straight edge of Visor, one could cut it with pinking shears, but the sewn seam is preferable. The width of fabric for Visor exceeds that of the Visor insert by an additional inch, not counting the ¼″ mentioned above, in order to be sewn without unnecessary bulk on the lines of stitching that secures the opening through which headband is inserted. As concerns the reversible style, it should be noted that even with the extra fabric for the Visor inside the opening for the headband, there is still ample room for the headband to be inserted.

The Visor Insert of FIG. 10, 003A can be made from any soft, flexible interfacing that is washable, doesn't ravel and is stiff enough to hold it's shape. Two brands I've used are Pellon, extra firm and HRT, also extra firm. The insert is rounded, same shape as the Visor, and is about ¼″ smaller on all sides in order to fit inside the Visor after the seam is sewn on Visor. The sizes to be cut are: 10″ long by 3¾″ wide for the women's visor insert and 8¼″ long by 3″ wide for the children's insert. Use 1″ wider for both if it is preferred that the insert extend exactly to the bottom, straight edge of the Visor that is sewn or attached to the bandana. This is desirable and possible when the thickness or weight of bandana fabric is such that it does not interfere with the comfort of the user.

For both single-sided and/or reversible styles, when there is not enough fabric on the finished bandana 001 for knots 002 to be tied as shown in FIG. 1A for the toddler's smaller size bandana, another method is that the open ends can be closed by using various means, such as elastic pony-tail holders, ribbons, hair clips, barrettes or whatever closure is desired. 002A.

The method of wearing both the single-sided and reversible styles are shown in FIGS. 1, 1A, 2, 3, and 4 on the 1^st page of the drawings. FIGS. 1 and 1A show the headwear being worn without a Visor. FIG. 2 shows how the headwear looks when worn with the headband in a straight, vertical position, with the ends in front of the ears, appropriate and preferable for cooler weather. FIGS. 4 and 1A show how the look is different when, holding onto the headband with both hands, the bandana is tilted to the back of head, stopping with the ends directly behind the ears, causing the bandana portion of headwear to flare outwardly at the sides. The three ways of wearing the Visor are also shown on Page 1. Dashed line of FIG. 1 shows Visor 003 being invisible when tucked underneath Bandana. FIG. 2 shows Visor 003 folded over top of Bandana as a cuff. FIGS. 3 and 4 show the Visor 003 extended outward. The drawings in FIGS. 1-4 clearly reveal the possibility of the 12 different looks when one multiplies the 2 ways of wearing the bandana times the 3 ways of wearing the Visor times 2 fabric sides when the reversible style is purchased. Six looks are possible with the single-sided Bandana style.

It is not necessary to remove the headband when choosing to wear the bandana headwear on the reverse side. With forefinger and thumb of both hands placed closely together at top of bandana, pressing lightly against headband, one merely flips the fabric 180 degrees to the reverse side.

Detailed Description of the Second Embodiment

This larger Bandana Headwear style, incorporating an internal, attached cap and optional Visor or Visor/cap assembly, is used when total head coverage is desired such as when there is hair loss or the head needs to be protected from the elements.

Many of these details are the same as or similar to those for the First embodiment, but are given in this segment in order that it may be used/licensed separately. A 22½″ or 27″ square is cut first, then the square is cut diagonally, forming a triangle.

The bandana portion 001 of FIG. 5 for the adult size is made from a triangular piece of any suitable type of washable fabric, 27″ on the shorter sides 007 and 41″ across the top of triangle 005. This part fits over the attached cap which covers the head. The two 27″ sides are turned under ¼″ twice and stitched. When it is desired that two small lead weights be used to keep the back of bandana from being blown over the top of head in excessive wind, they are inserted with washable glue near the point at back of bandana before stitching. 007 AA The seam width would need to be slightly larger to accommodate said weights.

The 41″ top portion is turned under ¼″, then turned under again 1″ on the wrong side of fabric, and a line of stitching is sewn near the end of that 1″ seam as is shown in FIG. 5, 005. The ends 004 of this long side of triangle are cut with pinking shears and turned under ¼″, then pressed with an iron. The headband will later be threaded through this 1″ opening. When applicable, the cap and Visor will be centered and fastened to this same seam and sewn.

To make the small size for children, use same directions as above except that dimensions to be cut are: 22½″ for sides×33″ for long end of triangular piece of fabric.

To make the cap with Visor in the adult size, with pining shears, cut a double thickness of knit or any stretchable fabric, 12″ wide by 12½″ at the longest part, where Visor meets top of cap. FIG. 17, 015 and 003B. On one piece of fabric only, cut a diagonal line where the visor ends and the cap starts as shown in FIG. 17, 016, five inches from widest part of Visor. Cap portion is 7½″. Next, turn under ¼″ to the reverse side on each of the longest sides 024 as shown in FIG. 21, press, then fold evenly over the straight end of the cut side of cap, 020, which is then pinned and stitched. Visor/cap assembly is then tacked with pins, and sewn on wrong side, with ¼″ seams all the way around the perimeter 017 and 018. The head of wearer fits through the opening. The stitched side is on the outside to ensure the comfort of the hairless head, if applicable. It should be noted here, that in lieu of using pinking shears to cut the fabric before stitching, another method is to use serging as a means to keep the fabric from unraveling as well as to use less fabric.

For the larger Visor insert as shown in FIG. 19, 003 AA, cut a piece of washable, stiff, non-raveling interfacing, such as Pellon or HTC, each extra firm, 11″ long by 3¾″ wide, as shown in FIG. 19, and insert inside the top portion of cap/Visor assembly of FIG. 17 after turning it right side out. The bottom or cap portion is not turned right side out for reason stated above. Both pieces of fabric 019 that form the double thickness of the Visor are then turned under ¼″ to the under side.

Go now to FIG. 20 to finish this segment. The Visor/cap assembly is centered, pinned and stitched to the same place on top seam of underside of bandana 023 where the headband will be inserted. 023A

The Headband of FIG. 6 is “U” shaped, 14½ inches long×½ inches wide×⅛ inches thick. Easily molded of flexible plastic, headbands are quite comfortable to wear as they bend easily to conform to the head. It would be helpful for consumers to note on the purchase label that the headband is to be removed for machine washing, adding that it could be left in place when washing by hand. The headband can then be centered inside the seam and after making sure the length of fabric that extends from the ends of the headband are exactly the same, the double knots as shown in FIGS. 12-14, 002, can be tied. With this larger Bandana style version, the ends may also be tied at the back of the wearer's head as in FIG. 15. This will be detailed later.

For toddlers and young children, use same directions as above except that dimensions for pattern are:

• • 11¾″ wide by 12″ long, double thickness fabric for the cap/Visor assembly. The Visor insert is 10″ long by 3¾″ wide.

The method of preparation when it is desired that the Visor be of the same fabric as the Bandana scarf for the women's size is as follows: Two separate pieces of fabric, double thickness, for the cap and Visor are cut and pinned, wrong side facing out, the cap being 7¾″ wide by 11¾″ at longest part. Referring now to the cap portion 015 of FIG. 17 only, stitch a ¼″ seam around all edges, except top. A strip of the knit fabric, cut 1½″×25″, which will be the binding for the cap, as in FIG. 21, is then turned under ¼″ on each of the longest sides and folded evenly over the straight end of the cap, pinned and stitched. Only one side of this straight end will be sewn to the Bandana scarf as there needs to be an opening for cap to be placed on wearer's head.

Cut the visor part out of the same fabric as Bandana scarf, 11¾″ long by 5½″ wide, as shown in FIG. 18, stitch along the rounded side 021 and turn right side out. Press and insert the interfacing. FIG. 19, 003 AA.

Turn under ¼″, press and sew seam 022A to secure insert. Next, pin the straight end of the visor 022 to the straight end of one side of cap 020, ¼″ from fabric edge of each. Center and sew, pinning first if desired, to the inside of the bandana scarf, 1″ from top on same seam 023 as the one through which the headband will be inserted as in FIG. 20, 0323 A. The width of fabric for Visor exceeds that of the Visor insert by an additional inch, in order to be sewn without additional bulk of the insert when stitched to Bandana.

Use same directions for the women's size when making the toddler and young children's size except that dimensions are: 7½″ wide by 10½″ long, double thickness fabric for the cap and 10¾″ long and 4¾″ wide for the Visor as shown in FIG. 18. The Visor insert is 3″ wide by 9½″ long. FIG. 19 It is preferable that a Visor be used with this style when it is to be used for those persons with hair loss. When no Visor is desired or needed as in men's styles, for example, use same pattern, eliminating FIGS. 18 and 19 and references to 003B and 003 AA.

The Visor Insert of FIG. 19, 003 AA can be made from any soft, flexible interfacing that is washable and stiff enough retain it's shape when bent. Two brands I've used are Pellon, and HRT, both extra firm The insert is rounded, same shape as the Visor, and is slightly smaller on all sides in order to fit inside the Visor after the seam is sewn on Visor. Use 1″ wider for both women's and children's sizes if it is preferred that the insert extend exactly to the bottom, straight edge of the Visor that is sewn to the bandana. This is desirable and possible when the thickness or weight of the bandana fabric is such that it does not interfere with the comfort of the user.

The Headband of FIG. 6 that holds the bandana in place is not seen when it is threaded through the 1″ opening at the top of the bandana, is an upside down “U” shaped, 9″ long, flexible band and one size fits all.

The headband is the last part to be assembled to complete this style. The bandana headwear is now ready to wear and the wearer may choose to tie the long ends of scarf in two knots 002 at each end, near ears, or pull them behind head and tie at top of neck.

FIGS. 12, 13 and 14 show the longer style of the bandana headwear, 001A with a Visor included, being worn with the double knots 002 tied near the ears. You can see a bit of the cap 013 at the top of neck, right below the end of the bandana scarf In FIG. 12, the dashed line 0030 represents that Visor is concealed underneath bandana. In FIG. 13, the Visor 003 is worn extended outwardly, in the usual manner. FIG. 14 shows the Visor being folded back over the top of the bandana scarf, like a cuff.

FIG. 15 shows the longer bandana headwear 001 A being tied behind the head, which is the alternative way to tie the two ends. This drawing shows the Visor being worn extended outwardly; however, it can also be worn concealed or as a cuff. Thus, with the 3-ways to wear the Visor and two ways of tying the ends of the bandana scarf, there is a possibility of 6 different looks with one purchase. When no Visor is included in this style, there are two different looks possible because of the two ways to tie the ends. FIG. 12A shows the back side of a large bandana being worn by a man. Tied behind his head, at top of neck, the attached inner cap is invisible. It is doubtful that men or boys would want the ends tied in double knots and may prefer not to use the headband.

Detailed Description of the Third Embodiment

The attachable Visor is the third embodiment of this invention. Designed to be used with the Bandana headwear without a Visor, it can also be used with any type headwear without a Visor, unrelated to the present invention.

There are 3 sizes for Visors at this time; however the sizes may vary without departing from the scope of present invention. The sizes are as follows:

• • Adult Visor—10¾″ long by 5¼″ wide
  • Children's Visor—8¾″ long by 4¾″ wide
  • Visor for Lg. Bandana—11¾″ long by 5½″ wide *
    *Note that this larger style is normally used for Bandana headwear styles that have a cap included for those with hair loss. In the case of children who have lost their hair and need a larger Visor and Visor insert (below), the dimensions for producing would be the same as those for the Adult size.

The attachable Visor of FIG. 11 can be made from any washable fabric and is usually made in neutral colors such as white, black, beige, etc. that would blend well with the headwear to which it would be attached. When an attachable Visor is to be packaged with a Bandana headwear product, it could be the same color and/or fabric as said Bandana headwear, however.

Rounded ,like half an oval shape, with one straight edge, the Visor is made by placing two pieces of fabric, dimensions above, right sides together, then stitch a ¼″ seam around the curved portion of the visor, 011 leaving the straight edge 012 open. Turn it right-side out, and press. Place the Visor insert as shown in FIG. 10 inside and after turning the straight edge 012 of both sides under ¼″, both seams 012 and 012 A, 1″ apart, are ready to be sewn.

Dimensions for Visor inserts are:

• • Adult Size—10″ long by 3¾″ wide
  • Children's Visor—8¼″ long by 3″ wide
  • Insert for Lg. Style—11″ long by 3¾″ wide

The Visor Insert of FIG. 10 can be made from any soft, flexible interfacing that is washable, non-raveling and stiff enough to hold it's shape when bent. Two brands I've used are Pellon and HRT, both extra firm. The insert is rounded, same shape as the Visor, and is slightly smaller on all sides in order to fit inside the Visor after the seam is sewn on Visor.

To complete the attachable Visor of FIG. 16, with insert assembly, the desired fastener is then added. Three or more Velcro brand strips 014 may be placed near the straight edge of Visor as shown in FIG. 16.

One side of Velcro would be pre-attached to the Visor and a small amount of washable glue should be packaged with the attachable Visor in order that consumer could easily attach other side of Velcro to their headwear.

To use the attachable Visor, it would be centered on the reverse side of single-sided Bandana at the top, with the Velcro strips 014, being placed right below the 1″ seam for headband as shown in FIG. 9, 010, and glued. Washable glue must be used and instructions for consumers would need to be printed on label.

This attachable Visor could be packaged with Bandana headwear styles without an attached Visor. It could also be packaged separately and offered at a special price or given free when consumers purchased more than one Bandana style without a Visor.

Claims

1. A triangular-shaped Bandana scarf sewn to become versatile headwear of various sizes, accommodating heads of all ages, which features a 1″ top seam with an opening at each end, allowing insertion of flexible, plastic headband therein, and enabling removal of said headband when machine washing Bandana headwear.

A. Two small lead weights may be incorporated into back seams of Bandana, near “V”, to keep it from blowing up over top of head in excessive wind.

2. The flexible, U-shaped, plastic Headband, which, when inserted in top seam of Bandana headwear, enables Bandana to easily be placed on crown of head, and remain thereon, fitting snugly, but comfortably, without slipping off head as is often the case when a bandana scarf, without headband, is worn

A. At present, plastic is the best product for headband, but other products may be invented and used in the future without changing scope of present invention.

3. An article of headwear as noted in claims 1 and 2, in which both ends of the long side of the bandana fabric are tied into knots, after the headband has been inserted.

4. An article of headwear as noted in claims 1 and 2, in which both ends of the long side of the bandana fabric are both folded over and attached to the bandana with one or more of a number of closure types, including, but not limited to: Velcro, hook and eye fasteners, snaps, buttons, etc.

5. An article of headwear as noted in claims 1 and 2, which can be worn in two ways, with two distinctly different looks, depending upon whether the sides of same are worn in front of ears or behind ears

6. An article of headwear as noted in claims 1 and 2, which additionally utilizes an optional, flexible Visor or bill, sized in accordance to bandana size, with two finished sides and an insert, usually made from extra firm Pellon, HRT or any similar stiffening material, that enables the visor to retain it's shape when bent or washed.

A. When this unique visor in incorporated on a single-sided bandana style, three additional looks, aside from the two mentioned in claim 5, are possible as the wearer may choose to wear Visor extended outwardly in the usual manner, folded up over the top of bandana like a cuff, or tucked under bandana, when no Visor is desired, making six different looks with one purchase.

B. Said visor may be all one color and/or fabric on both sides or it may have two different colors and/or fabrics.

7. An article of headwear in claims 1 and 2, which additionally has another layer of fabric stitched together with the first one, making it reversible and allowing the consumer two different looks with one purchase when two colors and/or fabrics are utilized, which when combined with the two ways of wearing bandana, allows for four different looks with one purchase.

A. Both sides could also be the same fabric and/or color, but in either case, the double thickness of fabric has more ‘body’, lays better on head and allows for extra warmth in cool to cold weather as well as keeping head cool in warm weather, especially when natural fabrics are chosen.

B. The preferred method is to trim two inches from the point (v shape) on the back of this style, rounding it off before stitching.

C. When left in the regular “V” shape, it will be slightly longer than the single-sided bandana due to the method of producing it.

8. An article of headwear in claims 1 and 2, encompassing the Visor of claim 6 and the reversible aspect of claim 7, enabling the consumer to have twelve (12) different looks due to the fact that the three (3) ways of wearing the Visor may be utilized with both sides of the Bandana and there are two ways of wearing the bandana.

9. The article of headwear in claims 1, 2, 6 & 7, but in a smaller size for children and as there is not sufficient fabric for knots to be tied at the ends of long side of bandana, the preferred method of securing the ends is to use small barrettes, ribbons, stretchy bands, ie pony tail holders, or they could be secured in the manner described in claim 4.

10. The article of headwear in claims 1 and 2, but cut in a large size and incorporating a cap, usually knit or a fabric that it elasticized and stretchable, which is centered and sewn to the same line of stitching as the one that holds the headband in place.

11. The article of headwear in claims 1 and 2, and the knit cap as noted in claim 10, but with the cap fabric, when cut out, expanded to incorporate the Visor of claim 6, cut in a slightly larger size.

12. The article of headwear in claims 1 and 2, and the cap in claim 10, but instead of having the Visor of claim 6 made of the same fabric as the cap, this style is made from the same fabric as the bandana.

13. The article of headwear in claims 1 and 2, with cap of claim 10, with or without Visor of claim 6, that has two ways of wearing the bandana scarf, either with double knots at the front of both ears or having the long ends of the scarf being tied behind head.

14. The article of headwear in claims 1 and 2, with the cap of claim 10 and the Visor of claim 6 that has the possibility of 6 different looks, owing to the two ways to wear the bandana scarf times the 3 ways of wearing the Visor.

15. The article of headwear in claims 1, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12, having the option of all the edges of the triangular bandana being cut and sewn in different shapes: scalloped, coming to points, ie. zig zag design or the like.

16. The article of headwear in claims 1, 2, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12, having two ways of wearing same as relates to the headband placement on head, allowing for two to twelve different looks with one purchase, depending on whether the versatile Visor is included and/or whether the bandana headwear is reversible.

17. The article of headwear in claims 1, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12, with various trim, including but not limited to: fringe, cording, ribbon, or lace. Any of these may be added to the front, sides, except the six-inch portion on each side when they are to be tied into knots, and back of the bandana.

18. An article of headwear as noted in Visor description of claim 5, except that it is an optional, attachable Visor, to be purchased separately and to be attached to the headwear in claims 1, 6, or 8 and/or attached to other types of bandanas or caps, hats without a visor, unrelated to this invention, by means of Velcro or any other suitable fastener now available or any improved method yet to be invented.

19. An article of headwear in which all fabric of all claims herein (with exception of Headband in claim 2) may be composed of any known textile, natural or synthetic, or any combination thereof.