Bedding Cover with Integrated Runner

A bedding cover (100) having a runner layer (101) that simulates an overlaid bed scarf is provided. The runner layer (101) can be coupled to the cover material of the bedding cover (100) as a link, thereby preventing pillowing issues. The runner layer (101) provides both an aesthetically pleasing, upscale ornamental appearance as well as a subliminal target for bags and shoes. The runner layer (101) can include flanges (404). The flanges (404) can be pinned to the cover material with outer stitches (501,502), or tacked to the cover material with tag stitches (601,602).

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Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/121,602, filed Dec. 11, 2008.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

This invention relates generally a covering for a bed, such as a duvet or bedspread, and more particularly to a covering having an integrated runner spanning the width of the covering near the foot of the covering.

2. Background Art

Bedspreads and duvet covers in hotels receive extraordinary amounts of wear. One source of wear comes from hotel guests. For example, it is almost instinctive to some guests, at the moment of entering the room, to throw a suitcase or travel bag atop the bed covering. These bags and suitcases are often rough from being carried and generally cause mechanical wear to the covering. Additionally, bags and suitcases tend to be dirty and often stain or discolor the covering. Further, guests frequently relax, such as while watching the television, while lying atop the covering. In so doing, shoes or feet can get rubbed across the covering, further discoloring or staining the fabric.

Another source of wear comes from hotel staff. When one guest vacates, the housekeeping staff must wash the bed covering. In the case of a duvet cover, the staff must first remove the comforter, then wash the cover, and then reinsert the comforter. Frequently the covering must be ironed before it can be put back on a bed. Extensive washing, folding, ironing, and handling stresses the material of the covering.

At the same time, hotel guests are demanding amenities that are less institutional and more like the comforts of home. For instance, duvet covers with comforters are replacing bedspreads due to their added comfort. High thread-count cotton sheets are replacing cotton-polyester blends due to their added softness. Down pillows are replacing fiberfill pillows. Accoutrements such as bed scarves, accent pillows, and so forth are being added to hotel rooms.

The problem with these “added comforts” is that they are often not as durable. For example, silk is not as durable under wear and cleaning as is polyesters. Additionally, each accoutrement added requires more labor in that it must be cleaned and ironed between each use.

There is thus a need for an improved bedding article that is durable and withstands ordinary care, yet that is aesthetically pleasing so as to work with modern styles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top, plan view of one bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom, plan view of one bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cut-away bottom, plan view of a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention that reveals a runner integrated with the top layer.

FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary attachment of an integrated runner with a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates one exemplary attachment of an integrated runner with a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates one exemplary attachment of an integrated runner with a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a sectional elevation view of a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a plan view and side view of one embodiment of a bed covering in accordance with the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a method of using a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a decorative bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates an alternate bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates tag stitches suitable for use with embodiments of the invention.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the invention are now described in detail. Referring to the drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the views. As used in the description herein and throughout the claims, the following terms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise: the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” Relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. Also, reference designators shown herein in parenthesis indicate components shown in a figure other than the one in discussion. For example, talking about a device (10) while discussing figure A would refer to an element, 10, shown in figure other than figure A.

Embodiments of the present invention provide a bed covering, such as a duvet cover, having an integrated runner. In one embodiment, the integrated runner is made from a runner layer that is integrated with a cover layer of material by stitching or sewing. The runner layer spans the width of the cover layer so as to simulate a bed scarf. However, rather than being a detachable bed scarf, the runner layer is physically coupled to the cover layer.

In many hotels, guests are treated to an aesthetic luxury with respect to their bedding as hotels are providing a comforter and duvet cover with a bed runner spanning there across. The bed runner is a scarf of roughly twenty inches in width that spans the foot of the bed atop the duvet cover to provide a splash of color. While traditional runners are problematic in that they comprise an additional object that must be laundered and ironed, embodiments of the present invention provide an integrated runner that is sewn into the duvet cover so it is automatically washed whenever the duvet cover is laundered.

In one embodiment, the runner layer of the present invention spans the width of the cover layer to which it is attached such that a first section of the cover layer material extends distally from the runner layer in a first direction. Likewise, a second section of the cover layer material extends distally from the runner layer in a second direction. In one embodiment, the first section and second section will be different in size such that the runner layer is disposed towards the bottom, or foot end, of the bedding cover. In one embodiment, the runner layer is coupled to the cover layer substantially parallel with the width of the cover layer.

Turning now to FIG. 1, illustrated therein is one embodiment of a bedding cover 100 in accordance with embodiments of the invention. Note that while a bedding cover 100 configured as a duvet cover is used herein as an exemplary embodiment, it will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that the invention is not so limited. The runner layer 101 described herein could also be integrated with a quilt, bedspread, top sheet, throw, or other bed covering.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 1, the bedding cover comprises a runner layer 101 and a cover layer 102. The runner layer 101 is integrated with the cover layer 102 and, in one embodiment, spans substantially the width 105 of the cover layer 102. The runner layer 101 can be disposed substantially parallel with the width 105 of the cover layer 102 such that the runner layer 101 forms a horizontal swath across the cover layer 102 when viewed in the orientation shown in FIG. 1.

In FIG. 1, the bedding cover 100 includes a top, or head end 106, and a bottom, or foot end 107. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 1, the runner layer 101 is integrated with the cover layer such that a first section 103 of the cover layer 102 extends distally from the runner layer 101 in a first direction 109. Further, a second section 104 of the cover layer 102 extends from the runner layer 101 in a second direction 109. In so doing, the runner layer 101 is disposed closer to the foot end 107 than the head end 106, thereby effectively spanning the foot portion of the bedding cover 100.

In one embodiment, the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 and the second section 104 of the cover layer 102 are separate sections, and are physically separated from each other. In such an embodiment, the runner layer 101 is sewn to the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 along a first side 110 of the runner layer 101 by at least one stitch. Similarly, the second section 104 of the cover layer 102 is sewn to the runner layer 101 along a second side 111 of the runner layer 101. In this configuration, the runner layer 101 spans and links the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 and the second section 104 of the cover layer 102.

In another embodiment, the cover layer 102 comprises a single piece of material, such that the first section 103 and the second section 104 are interconnected and pass beneath the runner layer 101. In such a configuration, the runner layer 101 is sewn to the cover layer 102 by at least one stitch along a first side 110 of the runner layer 101. Similarly, the cover layer 102 is sewn to the runner layer 101 by at least one stitch along a second side 111 of the runner layer 101. In this configuration, the runner layer 101 spans the cover layer 102 with the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 and the second section 104 of the cover layer 102 extending distally in opposite directions from the runner layer 101.

In one embodiment, the first side 110 and the second side 111 of the runner layer 101 are oriented so as to be substantially parallel with the width 105 of the cover layer 102. In one embodiment, the runner layer 101 is between fifteen and thirty inches in width. The runner layer 101 can be between ten and twenty inches from the edge of the bed when the bedding cover 100 is placed atop the bed. For example, the runner layer 101 may be eighteen inches wide, and may be disposed fourteen inches away from a foot end 107 of the bedding cover 100. The runner layer 101 can include a flange, such as a one-half inch flange, so as to appear more like a bed scarf that is independent from the cover layer 102. In one embodiment the stitching coupling the runner layer 101 to the cover layer 102 spans the width 105 of the cover layer 102. It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, however, that the invention is not so limited. Other dimensions, equally simulating a bed scarf, could also be used.

The bedding cover 100 and runner layer 101 can be manufactured from a variety of materials, including polyester, cotton, rayon, silk, wool, and blends thereof. In one embodiment, the cover layer 102 and the runner layer 101 are manufactured from the same material. In another embodiment, the cover layer 102 and runner layer 101 are manufactured from different materials. For instance, the runner layer 101 can be of a heavier and more durable material while the cover layer 102 can be of a lighter material.

By way of example, in one embodiment the cover layer 102 may be manufactured from a blend, such as a 50% cotton and 50% polyester blend. The runner layer 101 may be manufactured from the same material. In another embodiment, as the runner layer 101 may be subject to more wear than the cover layer 102, the cover layer 102 may be manufactured from a 50% cotton and 50% polyester blend, while the runner layer 101 is manufactured from a 100% polyester material.

Further, the runner layer 101 can include a “wear retardant” 112, such as a stain protective coating or micro-poly coating along the fibers. The runner layer 101 can be made from a plurality of layers, such as with a top, ornamental layer of material and a lower, protective layer. For instance, the top layer of the runner layer 101 can be a decorative material such as one manufactured from cotton and polyester, while the lower layer can be a liquid resistant layer such as a nylon layer.

The runner layer 101 can be the same color or a different color than the cover layer 102. For instance, in one embodiment the cover layer 102 and runner layer can both be beige. In another embodiment, the cover layer 102 may be white, while the runner layer is another color such as a cinnabar color. Similarly, the cover layer 102 can be a light color, such as ivory or tan, while the runner layer 101 is a contrasting color, such as gold, red, or blue.

In one embodiment, one or both of the cover layer 102 and runner layer 101 include textures (as shown in FIG. 10). The texture of the cover layer 102 can be the same as the texture of the runner layer 101, or they can be different. Similarly, one of the cover layer 102 or the runner layer 101 can include a texture, while the other does not. For instance, the cover layer 102 may be generally smooth, while the runner layer includes a mayflower jacquard. Further, either the cover layer 102 or the runner layer 101 can be manufactured from layered materials so as to have a textured surface.

The runner layer 101 can provide multiple functions. First, the runner layer 101 provides an aesthetically pleasing ornamental appearance to the user. The runner layer 101 provides a splash of color to the user that contrasts and/or compliments the color of the bedding cover 100. Optionally, the runner layer 101 can provide a different textural appearance as well.

Second, the runner layer 101 provides protection against luggage, bags, and feet. In one embodiment, the runner layer 101 is manufactured from a heavier material than is the bedding cover 100. As such, it can withstand more wear. In another embodiment, the runner layer 101 is manufactured from a darker material than is the bedding cover 100. As such, it is configured to mask stains.

Third, the runner layer 101, in one embodiment, is configured to be a subliminal target on a bed for hotel guests upon entering the room. Recall from above that it can be nearly instinctive to place bags atop a bed upon entering the hotel room. When using embodiments of the present invention, the runner layer 101 can be colored and textured to provide a subliminal target for these bags. Alternatively, the runner layer 101 can be a subliminal target for shoes or feet. More times than not, people with toss bags on the runner layer 101 over the bedding cover 100 when placing bags on the bed.

Turning now to FIG. 2, illustrated therein is a rear view of one embodiment of a bedding cover 100 in accordance with the invention. As can be seen from this view, the bedding cover 100 includes a pocket member 201 into which a comforter can be inserted. While the pocket member 201 of FIG. 2 is shown illustratively as having its opening slightly offset from the head end 106 of the bedding cover 100, it will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that the invention is not so limited. The opening can equally be placed at the foot of the bedding cover 100, along the side of the bedding cover 100, or somewhere in the middle of the bedding cover 100. Further, the opening can be placed on an end of the bedding cover 100, as illustrated in FIG. 7.

The pocket member 201 can be manufactured by applying a lower layer 202 of material to the bottom side of the cover layer (102), and then tailoring an aperture in the lower layer 202. The edges 203 of the aperture may include hems 204 thereabout to prevent fraying or tearing when inserts, such as comforters and the like, are inserted into, or removed from, the aperture. The lower layer 202 can be constructed from the same or a different type of material than that used for the cover layer (102) or the runner layer (101). For instance where the cover layer (102) comprises three sections, with the runner layer (101) serving as one section and linking the first section (103) and the second section (104), the lower layer 202 may be constructed from a material that is different from those used in the cover layer (102) or runner layer (101). The lower layer 202 may be a softer or more sheer material, as it is likely to be placed next to a user's skin.

Turning now to FIG. 3, illustrated therein is a cut-away view (dashed lines 350 and 351 represent the cut-away portion) of the bottom side of a bedding cover 100 having a runner layer 101 in accordance with embodiments of the invention. In FIG. 3, the bottom layer of material has been cut away to reveal how, in this exemplary embodiment, the runner layer 101 is attached to the bedding cover 100.

In this embodiment, the cover layer 102 is constructed from three sections, a first section 103 of the cover layer 102, a second section 104 of the cover layer 102, and the runner layer 101. The runner layer 101 is sewn between the first section 103 and the second section 104 such that the runner layer 101 functions a “link” in that it joins first section 103 and the second section 104 of the cover layer 102. Specifically, the runner layer 101 is joined to a first section 103 of cover layer 102 material along a first junction seam 301, which may be at least one stitch spanning the width (105) of the cover layer 102. Likewise, the runner layer 101 is joined to a second section 104 of cover layer 102 material along a second junction seam 302. By configuring the runner layer 101 as a link, unsightly issues like pillowing between the runner layer 101 and upper layer of duvet cover material can be avoided during the laundering process. Further, the runner layer 101 resembles a runner or bed scarf passing across the cover layer 102.

Turning briefly to FIGS. 7 and 8, illustrated therein is a sectional, elevation view of the bedding cover 100 that illustrates one configuration for attaching the first section 103 to the runner layer 101 and the second section 104 to the runner layer 101. Specifically, at least one stitch 801 spanning substantially the width (105) of the cover layer 102 can be used to couple the runner layer 101 to each of the first section 103 and the second section 104. Further, to prevent the stitch 801 from coming unraveled, an overlock stitch 802 may be used to couple the edges of the runner layer 101 with the edges of the first section 103 and the second section 104.

The lower layer 202 can also be seen in FIG. 7. As shown from the drawing, in one embodiment the aperture, which may be for insertion of a comforter, can be located at an end or edge of the bedding cover 100. This is in contrast to the offset location shown in FIG. 2.

Turning now to FIG. 4, illustrated therein is a first coupling technique for integrating the runner layer 101 with the cover layer 102 of the bedding cover 100. In FIG. 4, the cover layer 102, the lower layer, and edge of the runner layer 101 are joined by an exterior seam 403.

The runner layer 101 is joined to the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 by a first seam 401 along a first side 110, while the runner layer 101 is joined to the second section 104 of cover layer 102 by a second seam 402 along a second side 111. Specifically, in one embodiment the edges of the runner layer 101 are folded over so as to provide flange 404 that is approximately one-half inch in width. The flange 404 can traverse the width (105) of the cover layer 102. The flange 404 further makes the runner layer 101 seem to “float” above the bedding cover 100 as if it was a separate piece of material. In one embodiment, both the first seam 401 and second seam 402 comprise one or more stitches having between five and forty stitches per inch, such as ten stitches per inch. Further, an overlock stitch may be added (as shown in FIG. 8) beneath the cover layer 102 of the bedding cover 100 along seams 401 and 402, respectively.

Turning now to FIG. 5, illustrated therein is a second coupling technique for integrating the runner layer 101 with the cover layer 102. In FIG. 5, as with FIG. 4, the cover layer 102, the lower layer 202, and the edge of the runner layer 101 are joined by an exterior seam 403.

Also as with FIG. 4, the runner layer 101 of FIG. 5 is joined to the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 by a first seam 401, while the runner layer 101 is joined to the second section 104 of the cover layer 102 by a second seam 402. The edges of the runner layer 101 are folded over so as to provide flanges 404 that are between one-quarter and three inches in width. For example, in one embodiment, the flange 404 measures approximately two inches width. In another embodiment, the flange 404 measures approximately one-half inch in width. In one embodiment, both the first seam 401 and second seam 402 comprise one or more stitches having ten stitches per inch and an overlock stitch beneath the upper layer of the bedding cover 100 along seams 401 and 402, respectively.

In FIG. 5, to ensure that the flanges 404 do not “fold back” over the runner layer 101 so as to become aesthetically unpleasing, in one embodiment an outer stitch is applied to the flange 404 to “pin” it to the cover layer 102. Specifically, the upper flange is pinned by stitch 501, while the lower flange is pinned by stitch 502. In one embodiment, stitch 501 and 502 comprises simple stitches having ten stitches per inch without an overlock stitch. These stitches 501,502 give the runner layer 101 a more subdued and clean look.

Turning now to FIG. 6, illustrated therein is a third coupling technique for integrating the runner layer 101 with the cover layer 102. In FIG. 6, as with FIG. 4, the cover layer 102, the lower layer 202, and the edge of the runner layer 101 are joined by an exterior seam 403.

Also as with FIG. 4, the runner layer 101 of FIG. 6 is joined to the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 by a first seam 401, while the runner layer 101 is joined to the second section 104 of the cover layer 102 by a second seam 402. The edges of the runner layer 101 are folded over so as to provide flange 404 that is approximately one-half inch in width. In one embodiment, both the first seam 401 and second seam 402 comprise one or more stitches having ten stitches per inch and an overlock stitch beneath the upper layer of the bedding cover 100 along seams 401 and 402, respectively.

Rather than continuously pinning the flanges 404 to the duvet cover with outer stitching, in FIG. 6 the flanges 404 are tacked to the bedding cover 100 with tag stitches 601,602. A plurality of tag stitches 601,602 can be used, with each of the tag stitches 601,602 is spaced apart from other tag stitches across the width (105) of the cover layer 102.

As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 6, the upper flange is tacked to the bedding cover 100 with tag stitches 601, while the lower flange is tacked to the duvet cover with tag stitches 602. In one embodiment, the tag stitches 601,602 are spaced apart thirty-six inches are repeated across the width of the bedding cover 100. This “bar tag” coupling holds the flanges 404 of the runner layer 101 in place and requires less ironing than the embodiment of FIG. 4. Further, the bar tags prevent the flanges 404 from rolling or folding during the laundering process.

Note that the tag stitches 601,602 shown in FIG. 6 are stitches that run generally perpendicular to the edge of the runner layer 101. It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, however, that the embodiments of the invention are not so limited. Turning briefly to FIG. 12, illustrated therein are a few alternate embodiments that may be employed as tag stitches. By way of example, tag stitch 1201 runs only part of the way between the first seam 401 and the edge 1203 of the runner layer. This tag stitch 1201 can run any length between the first seam 401 and the edge 1203, including a quarter of the way, half way, two-thirds of the way, and so forth.

Tag stitch 1202 is a triangular-shaped tag stitch, which is wider at the first seam 401 than at the edge 1203. Note that this tag stitch 1202 could also be inverted. Similarly, tag stitch 1204 is triangular in shape and only extends partially between the first seam 401 and the edge 1203 of the runner layer 101. Further, a small tag stitch 1204 can be used. Tag stitches other than those shown may also be employed.

As noted above, the runner layer 101 and cover layer 102 may have different appearances. Turning briefly to FIG. 10, illustrated therein is one such embodiment. Specifically, in FIG. 10, the runner layer 1001 has a texture 1003 and color 1004 that is distinct from the color 1005 and texture 1006 of the cover layer 1002. Such a configuration makes the runner layer “pop” off the cover layer when viewed by a guest in a hotel room.

Turning briefly to FIG. 11, illustrated therein is one embodiment of a bedding cover 1100 having yet another appearance in accordance with embodiments of the invention. Specifically, while the runner layers of other figures have been generally straight along the sides, the runner layer 1101 of FIG. 11 has a free-flowing edge 1111. Said differently, rather than having a clean, straight edge, the runner layer 1101 has a free-flowing edge 1111 that includes curves and waves so as to appear as a more casually placed runner atop the bed. It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that the edges of the runner layer can take a variety of other shapes as well. For example, the edges of the runner layer may be scalloped, saw-tooth, or other aesthetically pleasing geometry.

Turning now to FIG. 9, illustrated therein is one embodiment of a method 900 of using a bedding cover (100) to transform a bed from an unmade state to a made state. Such a method 900 is suitable for use by housekeeping personnel in a hotel, for example. Similarly, the method 900 can be used by individuals at home as well.

At step 901, used, soiled bedding is removed. This bedding can then be laundered at step 902.

At step 903, a bedding cover (100) comprising a runner layer (101) integrated with the one or more cover layers (102) of material is provided. In one embodiment, the runner layer (101) spans a width (105) of the cover layer (102) of material such that a first section (103) of the cover layer (102) of material extends distally from the runner layer (101) in a first direction (108) and a second section (104) of the cover layer (102) of material extends distally from the runner layer (101) in a second direction (109). At optional step 904, an insert, such as a comforter or quilt is inserted into the bedding cover (100).

At step 905, the bed is made using the bedding cover (100). For example, the bedding cover (100) may be placed across clean linens and spread neatly across the bed. At optional step 906, the bedding cover (100) is arranged such that the runner layer (101) spans the width of the bed and is disposed closer to the foot end than the head end.

As described herein, embodiments of the present invention provide a bedding cover with a two-piece look yet with one-piece care. Specifically, the integrated runner appears to be a separate piece of material. However, when laundering the bedding cover, only a single item needs to be cleaned, thereby obviating the need to wash multiple articles separately. As such, embodiments of the present invention save water, detergent, and energy, and are thus more environmentally friendly.

In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below. Thus, while preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is clear that the invention is not so limited. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of present invention. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims.

Claims

1. A bedding cover, comprising:

a cover layer of material; and
a runner layer fixedly integrated with the cover layer of material and spanning a width of the cover layer of material such that a first section of the cover layer of material extends distally from the runner layer in a first direction and a second section of the cover layer of material extends distally from the runner layer in a second direction, the runner layer configured to simulate a bed scarf;
wherein the cover layer and runner layer each comprise separate layers of material.

2. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the cover layer of material comprises a first piece of the cover layer of material independent from a second piece of the cover layer of material, wherein the runner layer is sewn to the first piece of the cover layer of material along a first side of the runner layer, the first side being parallel with the width of the cover layer of material, and the runner layer is sewn to the second piece of the cover layer of material along a second side of the runner layer, the second side being parallel with the width of the cover layer of material, such that the runner layer spans between and links the first piece of the cover layer of material and the second piece of the cover layer of material.

3. The bedding cover of claim 2, wherein the runner layer is coupled to each of the first piece of the cover layer of material and the second piece of the cover layer of material, along the first side and the second side, by at least one stitch spanning the width of the cover layer of material.

4. The bedding cover of claim 3, wherein the runner layer is further coupled to each of the first piece of the cover layer of material and the second piece of the cover layer of material by an overlock stitch.

5. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer comprises a subliminal target for a bed.

6. The bedding cover of claim 5, wherein the subliminal target comprises a target for one of luggage, shoes, or feet.

7. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer is between fifteen and thirty inches wide.

8. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer comprises a first flange and a second flange, each flange traversing the width of the cover layer of material.

9. The bedding cover of claim 8, wherein each of the first flange and the second flange of the runner layer is pinned to the cover layer of material by a continuous stitch.

10. The bedding cover of claim 8, wherein each of the first flange and the second flange of the runner layer is tacked to the cover layer of material by a plurality of tag stitches, wherein each of the plurality of tag stitches is spaced from each other of the plurality of tag stitches across the width of the cover layer of material.

11. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the bedding cover comprises a duvet cover.

12. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer comprises a wear retardant.

13. A bedding cover, comprising:

an upper layer, wherein the upper layer comprises three sections, each distinct from the other, each of the three sections being sewn together such that a second section is disposed between a first section and a third section so as to resemble a runner passing across the upper layer;
wherein the second section is configured to simulate a bed scarf; and
a lower layer;
wherein the upper layer and the lower layer define an aperture through which a comforter may be inserted.

14. The bedding cover of claim 13, wherein the first section and the third section comprise a first material, wherein the second section comprises a second material, wherein the first material and the second material are different.

15. The bedding cover of claim 14, wherein the first material and the second material are different in color.

16. The bedding cover of claim 14, wherein the first material comprises one of a first pattern or a first texture disposed thereon and the second material comprises one of a second pattern or a second texture disposed thereon, wherein the first pattern and the second pattern are different and the first texture and the second texture are different.

17. The bedding cover of claim 14, wherein the lower layer comprises a third material, wherein the third material is different from the first material and the second material.

18. A method of transforming a bed from an unmade state to a made state, the method of transforming comprising:

providing a bed cover comprising a runner layer integrated by stitching with one or more cover layers of material that are discrete from the runner layer, the runner layer being configured to simulate a bed scarf, the runner layer spanning a width of the one or more cover layers of material such that a first section of the one or more cover layers of material extends distally from the runner layer in a first direction and a second section of the one or more cover layers of material extends distally from the runner layer in a second direction; and
placing the bed cover across the bed.

19. The method of transforming the bed from the unmade state to the made state of claim 18, wherein the bed comprises a bed width, a head end, and a foot end, wherein the placing the bed cover across the bed comprises placing the bed cover on the bed such that the runner layer spans the width and is disposed closer to the foot end than the head end.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of inserting a comforter within the bed cover.

Patent History
Publication number: 20100146701
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 30, 2009
Publication Date: Jun 17, 2010
Inventor: Vijay A. Bhuta (Diamond Bar, CA)
Application Number: 12/414,254
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Multilayer (5/502); Bedclothing (5/482)
International Classification: A47G 9/02 (20060101); A47G 9/00 (20060101);