MULTI-LOOK BEDDING

Abstract

Bedding having a first image printed on a first surface and a second image printed on a second surface, which facilitates multiple looks and/or an extended use are generally disclosed. An embodiment includes a bedding element comprising a cavity, an exterior surface, an interior surface, and an opening through which an object may be inserted into the cavity, a first graphic printed on the exterior surface, and a second graphic printed on the interior surface, the first graphic different from the second graphic. Other embodiments and described and claimed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/671,429 filed Jul. 13, 2012, entitled “MULTI-LOOK BEDDING AND A METHOD OF MARKETING THEREOF,” and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/671,879 filed Jul. 16, 2012, entitled “EXTENDABLE-USE BEDDING AND METHOD OF MARKETING THEREOF,” both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of bedding, and more particularly to bedding having multiple looks, which may facilitate an extended-use. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a bedding set, such as for children, with multiple looks, designs, and/or color schemes, which may be switched in order to change the current look or to extend the use of the bedding as the tastes of the child mature.

2. Related Art

People often like to have the ability to switch up the look of different items within their possession. They do not want to be locked into just one look. In furtherance of these desires, people enjoy having the ability to switch such items in order to match certain occasions, color story, characters, or other items. For example, most people have different shoes or sneakers to match different outfits. As another example, women have different purses, also to match different outfits, as well as to befit certain events or occasions.

Other times, people often just grow tired of a certain look, and as such, may want to change the look of certain things. For example, people may grow tired of a certain paint color within their houses, and may want to switch to a completely different color. However, this may often pose problems with the other décor and/or furniture in the house, as the new color may completely clash with the décor and/or furniture.

Additionally, people often change their tastes and interests as they mature, which may cause them to desire to change the look of certain things to match their new tastes and interests. For example, children express their tastes and interests, such as a favorite television show, super hero, cartoon character, toy, etc., in a variety of ways and forms, such as displaying them on various objects. Such objects may include, but are not limited to, clothing, bedding, pictures, lunchboxes, backpacks, stickers, books, and the like.

However, as children grow older, their interests begin to change and mature. For example, characters and/or designs they used to adore become too childish. As such, all the items bearing those characters and/or designs are no longer desired, and need to be discarded and replaced with new items more in line with the child's new tastes and interests. Oftentimes, this involves a large number of items that amount to a sizable amount of investment, i.e., money, to obtain. Given the rapidity with which children's interests change, the length of time a product ends up being used may not result in a satisfactory investment.

One area of a household where this desire to change a certain look may arise is in the bedroom, specifically with the bedding, which is a central feature and focal point in the bedroom. A person may grow older or just tired of certain color stories, designs, characters, pattern, etc. of the bedding in his or her room, and as such may want to switch to a new bedding set. This may require him or her to have multiple additional bedding sets, which may end up being quite costly, depending on how often he or she likes to switch up the look, as well as the quality of the bedding.

Therefore, a need exists for a bedding set, such as for children, that has multiple looks to allow a user of the bedding to switch the looks depending on his or her age, color scheme, character theme, tastes or mood at a specific time, as well as an effective method for marketing such a multi-look bedding set. Additionally, a need exists for a bedding set, such as for children, the use of which may be extended to accommodate the maturing tastes and interests of the user of the bedding set, as well as an effective method for marketing such an extendable-use bedding set.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a bedding set including a bedding element comprising a cavity, an exterior surface, an interior surface, and an opening through which an object may be inserted into the cavity. The bedding element having a first graphic printed on the exterior surface and a second graphic printed on the interior surface, the first graphic different from the second graphic. In further embodiments, the first and second graphics relate to a character. In alternative further embodiments, the first graphic comprises an image of the character and the second graphic comprises a symbol for the character.

As another example, various embodiments provide a bedding element comprising a first graphic printed on a top surface of the bedding element and a second graphic printed on a bottom surface of the bedding element, the first graphic different from the second graphic. In further embodiments, the first graphic comprises an image of a character and the second graphic comprises a symbol for the character. In further embodiments, the first graphic relates to a character and the second graphic relates to a pattern.

As another example, various embodiments provide a method for manufacturing a bedding element having a first surface and a second surface, the method comprising determining a theme, selecting a first graphic to be printed on the first surface based at least in part on the theme, selecting a second graphic to be printed on the second surface, the first graphic different than the second graphic, and printing the first graphic and the second graphic on the first surface and the second surface, respectively.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1-4 illustrate block diagrams of example bedding elements in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate block diagrams of alternative perspective views of another example bedding element in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates an example bedding set in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another example bedding set in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate still another example bedding set in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 9-10 illustrate example packaging inserts in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 11-12 illustrate example marketing materials in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 13 illustrates an example method for making a bedding element, all arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments are shown. It is to be appreciated, that in the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments or other examples described herein. In some instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail, so as to not obscure the following description.

Further, the examples disclosed are for exemplary purposes only and other examples may be employed in lieu of, or in combination with, the examples disclosed. It should also be noted the examples presented herein should not be construed as limiting of the scope of embodiments of the present disclosure, as other equally effective examples are possible and likely.

FIGS. 1-4 and 5A-5B are block diagrams of example bedding elements 100-500 respectively, all arranged according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. The material of each of the bedding elements described herein may be any fabric or textile, including, but not limited to, cotton, silk, polyester, nylon, or any combination thereof, and the like, that is customarily used for bedding. Furthermore, the sizes of each of the bedding elements will be such so as to fit the various sizes of mattresses, including, but not limited to, twin, full, queen, king, California king, and infant.

Additionally, bedding sets (e.g., described more fully with respect to FIG. 6, FIGS. 7A-7B, and 8A-8B) may be formed and include one or more of the bedding elements described herein. It is envisioned that the bedding sets described herein may include any number of elements. For example, one embodiment may include two standard pillow cases. Another embodiment may include the fitted sheet and flat sheet. Another embodiment may include just the comforter cover.

Referring specifically to FIG. 1, as depicted, the bedding element 100 includes a top surface 112 and a bottom surface 116. The top surface 112 includes a first graphic 114 printed thereon while the bottom surface 116 includes a second graphic 118, which is different from the first graphic 114, printed thereon. In some examples, the bedding element 100 may be a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, a quilt, a blanket, or an accessory commonly associated with bedding (e.g., a bed skirt, a canopy cover, or the like.)

As described, the first and second graphics 114 and 118 are different. In general, the first and second graphics 114 and 118 may relate to licensed character(s), unlicensed character(s), a color story, a pattern, or the like. Although the first and second graphics 114 and 118 are different, they may share the same theme (e.g., relate to the same character(s), have a similar pattern, or the like.) Alternatively, the first and second graphics 114 and 118 may not relate to a common theme.

As an example, the first graphic 114 may include a cartoon character from a show or movie, such as one produced by WALT DISNEY, and the second graphic 118 may include a different image of the cartoon character, a different character from the same or different movie, or a representation of the cartoon character (e.g., a symbol, or the like). The first and second graphics 114 and 118 may further differ from each other with different color stories or schemes, patterns, and the like.

In other embodiments, the first graphic and second graphic 114 and 118 may relate to separate themes, colors and characters altogether. For example, the first graphic 114 may relate to a character and or theme while the second graphic 118 merely depicts a particular pattern or color scheme. Thus, when the user, such as a child, has grown older or tired of the first graphic 114, he or she may switch the bedding element 100 from the top surface 112 to the bottom surface 116 to change the display from the first graphic 114 to the second graphic 116 (i.e., from one character, color, and/or design to a new set of ones.) This will allow for the user to implement a new look without a new bedding set.

As another example, the top surface 112 may be generally for a first stage of use (i.e., when the child is still at a young age, for example, pre-adolescence.) As such, the first graphic 114, which is printed on the top surface 112 may comprise more child-like images, including, but not limited to, cartoon characters, super heros, such as those found in WALT DISNEY shows or movies. The bottom surface 116 may be generally for a second stage of use (i.e., when the child has matured and has developed more mature tastes and interests, for example, has grown out of the cartoon phase.) As such, the second graphic 118, which is printed on the bottom surface 116, may comprise patterns including, but not limited to, checkers, argyle, stripes, flowers, dots, and the like, or more subtle indications or symbols of the previous earlier childhood first graphic, as opposed to child-like images.

Thus, when the child has grown older, for example, into the adolescent, pre-teen, or teenager age, he or she could switch the bedding element 100 from the top surface 112 to the bottom surface 116 (e.g., by turning the bedding element 100 over) so as to change the display from the child-like images (e.g., the first graphic 114) to the more mature pattern (e.g., the second graphic 118). This will allow for extended use of the bedding set as it extends beyond the child stage.

As another example, the first graphic 114 may include a character, such as, from a show, movie, comic book, or the like, and the second image 118 may include a less childlike or subtle representation of the character (e.g., a shield, a symbol, a name, or in general any another indication of the character).

Turning now to FIG. 2, the bedding elements 200 includes a cavity 205 through which an object may be inserted. In some examples, the bedding elements 200 may be a standard pillow case, a sham pillow case, a fitted pillow case, or a comforter cover. Accordingly, the object that may be inserted into the cavity 205 may be a pillow or a comforter. As depicted, the bedding element 200 includes external surfaces 210 and an internal surfaces 220. Furthermore, the external surface 210 has a top surface 212 and a bottom surface 216. A first graphic 214 is shown printed on the external top surface 212 while a second graphic 218, which is different than the first graphic 214, is shown printed on the external bottom surface 216.

As described, the first and second graphics 214 and 218 are different. In general, the first and second graphics 214 and 218 may relate to licensed character(s), unlicensed character(s), a color story, a pattern, or the like. Although the first and second graphics 214 and 218 are different, they may share the same theme (e.g., relate to the same character(s), have a similar pattern, or the like.) Alternatively, the first and second graphics 214 and 218 may not relate to a common theme.

As an example, the first graphic 214 may include a cartoon character from a show or movie, such as one produced by WALT DISNEY, and the second graphic 218 may include a different character from the same or different movie. The first and second graphics 214 and 218 may further differ from each other with different color stories or schemes, patterns, and the like.

In other embodiments, the first graphic and second graphic 214 and 218 may relate to separate themes, colors and characters altogether. For example, the first graphic 214 may relate to a character and or theme while the second graphic 218 merely depicts a particular pattern or color scheme. Thus, when the user, such as a child, has grown older or tired of the first graphic 214, he or she may switch the bedding element 200 from the external top surface 212 to the external bottom surface 216 so as to change the display from the first graphic 214 to the second graphic 216 (i.e., from one character, color, and/or design to a new set of ones.) This will allow for the user to implement a new look without a new bedding set.

As another example, the external top surface 212 may be generally for a first stage of use (i.e., when the child is still at a young age, for example, pre-adolescence.) As such, the first graphic 214, which is printed on the external top surface 212, may comprise more child-like images, including, but not limited to, cartoon characters, super heros, and the like, such as those found in WALT DISNEY shows or movies. The external bottom surface 216 may be generally for a second stage of use (i.e., when the child has matured and has developed more mature tastes and interests, for example, has grown out of the cartoon phase.) As such, the second graphic 218, which is printed on the external bottom surface 216 may comprise patterns, including, but not limited to, checkers, argyle, stripes, flowers, dots, subtle symbols of the characters or super heros, and the like, as opposed to child-like images. Thus, when the child has grown older, for example, into the adolescent, pre-teen, or teenager age, he or she could switch the bedding element 200 from the external top surface 212 to the external bottom surface 216 (e.g., by turning the bedding element 200 over) so as to change the display from the child-like images (e.g., the first graphic 214) to the more mature pattern (e.g., the second graphic 218). This will allow for extended use of the bedding set as it extends beyond the child stage.

As a still alternative example, the first graphic 214 may include a character, such as, from a show, movie, comic book, or the like, and the second image 218 may include a more subtle representation of the character (e.g., a shield, a symbol, a name, or in general any another indication of the character),

Turning now to FIG. 3, the bedding elements 300 includes a cavity 305 through which an object may be inserted. In some examples, the bedding elements 300 may be a standard pillow case, a sham pillow case, a fitted pillow case, or a comforter cover. Accordingly, the object that may be inserted into the cavity 305 may be a pillow or a comforter. As depicted, the bedding element 300 includes external surfaces 310 and 320. The external surfaces 310 include a top surface 312 and a bottom surface 316. Furthermore, the internal surfaces 320 include a top surface 322 and a bottom surface 326. It is to be appreciated, that the view of the internal bottom surface 326 is obscured by the external top surface 312. A first graphic 314 is shown printed on the external top surface 312 while a second graphic 318, which is different than the first graphic 314, is shown printed on the internal top surface 322.

As described, the first and second graphics 314 and 318 are different. In general, the first and second graphics 314 and 318 may relate to licensed character(s), unlicensed character(s), a color story, a pattern, or the like. Although the first and second graphics 314 and 318 are different, they may share the same theme (e.g., relate to the same character(s), have a similar pattern, or the like). Alternatively, the first and second graphics 314 and 318 may not relate to a common theme.

As an example, the first graphic 314 may include a cartoon character from a show or movie, such as one produced by WALT DISNEY, and the second graphic 318 may include a different character from the same or different movie. The first and second graphics 314 and 318 may further differ from each other with different color stories or schemes, patterns, and the like.

In other embodiments, the first graphic and second graphic 314 and 318 may relate to separate themes, colors and characters altogether. For example, the first graphic 314 may relate to a character and or theme while the second graphic 318 merely depicts a particular pattern or color scheme. Thus, when the user, such as a child, has grown older or tired of the first graphic 314, he or she may switch the bedding element 300 from the external top surface 312 to the internal top surface 322 (e.g., by turning the bedding element 300 inside-out) so as to change the display from the first graphic 314 to the second graphic 316 (i.e., from one character, color, and/or design to a new set of ones). This will allow for the user to implement a new look without a new bedding set.

As another example, the external top surface 312 may be generally for a first stage of use (i.e., when the child is still at a young age, for example, pre-adolescence). As such, the first graphic 314, which is printed on the external top surface 312, may comprise more child-like images, including, but not limited to, cartoon characters, such as those found in WALT DISNEY shows or movies.

The internal top surface 322 may be generally for a second stage of use (i.e., when the child has matured and has developed more mature tastes and interests, for example, has grown out of the cartoon phase). As such, the second graphic 318, which is printed on the internal top surface 322 may comprise patterns, including, but not limited to, checkers, argyle, stripes, flowers, dots, subtle symbols of characters, and the like, as opposed to child-like images. Thus, when the child has grown older, for example, into the adolescent, pre-teen, or teenager age, he or she could switch the bedding element 300 from the external top surface 312 to the internal top surface 322 (e.g., by turning the bedding element inside-out) so as to change the display from the child-like images (e.g., the first graphic 314) to the more mature pattern (e.g., the second graphic 318). This will allow for extended use of the bedding set as it extends beyond the child stage.

As a still other example, the first graphic 314 may include a character, such as, from a show, movie, comic book, or the like, and the second image 318 may include a representation of the character (e.g., a shield, a symbol, a name, or in general any another indication of the character).

Referring more specifically to FIG. 4, the bedding elements 400 includes a cavity 405 through which an object may be inserted. In some examples, the bedding elements 400 may be a standard pillow case, a sham pillow case, a fitted pillow case, or a comforter cover. Accordingly, the object that may be inserted into the cavity 405 may be a pillow or a comforter. As depicted, the bedding element 400 includes external surfaces 410 and 420. The external surfaces 410 include a top surface 412 and a bottom surface 416. Furthermore, the internal surfaces 420 include a top surface 422 and a bottom surface 426. It is to be appreciated, that the view of the internal bottom surface 426 is obscured by the external top surface 412. The external top and bottom surfaces 412 and 416 have a first graphic 414 printed thereon while the internal top and bottom surfaces 422 and 426 have a second graphic 418, which is different than the first graphic 414, printed thereon.

As described, the first and second graphics 414 and 418 are different. In general, the first and second graphics 414 and 418 may relate to licensed character(s), unlicensed character(s), a color story, a pattern, or the like. Although the first and second graphics 414 and 418 are different, they may share the same theme (e.g., relate to the same character(s), have a similar pattern, or the like). Alternatively, the first and second graphics 414 and 418 may not relate to a common theme.

As an example, the first graphic 414 may include a cartoon character from a show or movie, such as one produced by WALT DISNEY, and the second graphic 418 may include a different character from the same or different movie. The first and second graphics 414 and 418 may further differ from each other with different color stories or schemes, patterns, and the like. In other embodiments, the first graphic and second graphic 414 and 418 may relate to separate themes, colors and characters altogether. For example, the first graphic 414 may relate to a character and or theme while the second graphic 418 merely depicts a particular pattern or color scheme. Thus, when the user, such as a child, has grown older or tired of the first graphic 414, he or she may switch the bedding element 400 from the external top surface 412 to the internal top surface 422 (e.g., by turning the bedding element 400 inside-out) so as to change the display from the first graphic 414 to the second graphic 416 (i.e., from one character, color, and/or design to a new set of ones). This will allow for the user to implement a new look without a new bedding set.

As another example, the external top surface 412 may be generally for a first stage of use (i.e., when the child is still at a young age, for example, pre-adolescence). As such, the first graphic 414, which is printed on the external surfaces 410, may comprise more child-like images, including, but not limited to, cartoon characters, such as those found in WALT DISNEY shows or movies. The internal top surface 422 may be generally for a second stage of use (i.e., when the child has matured and has developed more mature tastes and interests, for example, has grown out of the cartoon phase). As such, the second graphic 418, which is printed on the internal surfaces 420, may comprise patterns, including, but not limited to, checkers, argyle, stripes, flowers, dots, subtle symbols of characters, and the like, as opposed to child-like images. Thus, when the child has grown older, for example, into the adolescent, pre-teen, or teenager age, he or she could switch the bedding element 400 from the external top surface 412 to the internal top surface 422 (e.g., by turning the bedding element inside-out) so as to change the display from the child-like images (e.g., the first graphic 414) to the more mature pattern (e.g., the second graphic 418). This will allow for extended use of the bedding set as it extends beyond the child stage.

As a still alternative example, the first graphic 414 may include a character, such as, from a show, movie, comic book, or the like, and the second image 418 may include a subtle representation of the character (e.g., a shield, a symbol, a name, or in general any another indication of the character).

Turning now to FIGS. 5A-5B, the bedding element 500 is shown in alternative perspective views (e.g., a top view is generally represented in FIG. 5A and a bottom view is generally represented in FIG. 5B). As FIGS. 5A-5B depict the same bedding element, just from different perspectives, they will be described together herein. As depicted, the bedding element 500 includes a cavity 505 through which an object may be inserted.

In some examples, the bedding elements 500 may be a standard pillow case, a sham pillow case, a fitted pillow case, or a comforter cover. Accordingly, the object that may be inserted into the cavity 505 may be a pillow or a comforter. The bedding element 500 includes external surfaces 510 and 520. The external surfaces 510 include a top surface 512 and a bottom surface 516. Furthermore, the internal surfaces 520 include a top surface 522 and a bottom surface 526. The external top surface 512 has a first graphic 514 printed thereon while the internal top surface 522 has a second graphic 218 printed thereon. The external bottom surface 516 has a third graphic 534 printed thereon while the internal bottom surface 226 has a fourth graphic 538 printed thereon.

As depicted, the first, second, third, and fourth graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 are all different from each other. In general, the graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 may relate to licensed character(s), unlicensed character(s), a color story, a pattern, or the like. Although the graphics the graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 are different, they may share the same theme (e.g., relate to the same character(s), have a similar pattern, or the like). Alternatively, the graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 may not relate to a common theme.

As an example, one or more of the graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 may include a cartoon character from a show or movie, such as one produced by WALT DISNEY, while another one or more of the graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 may include a different character from the same or different movie. The graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 may further differ from each other with different color stories or schemes, patterns, and the like. In some embodiments, two of the graphics (e.g., the first and second graphics 514 and 518) may relate to a common theme while the other two graphics (e.g., the third and fourth graphics 534 and 538) may relate to a different theme. With some embodiments, the graphics 514, 518, 534, and 538 may relate to separate themes, colors and characters altogether. As a particularly illustrative examples, the first and second graphics 514 and 518 may relate to a character and or theme while the third and fourth graphics 534 and 538 merely depicts a particular pattern or color scheme.

Thus, when the user, such as a child, has grown older or tired of the first and second graphics 514 and/or 518, he or she may switch the bedding element 500 from the external surfaces 510 to the internal top surfaces 520 (e.g., by turning the bedding element 500 inside-out) so as to change the display from the first and/or second graphics 514 and 518 to the third and fourth graphics 534 and 538 (i.e., from one character, color, and/or design to a new set of ones). Alternatively, the user may simply flip the bedding element 500 over to change to a different graphic. This will allow for the user to implement a new look without a new bedding set.

As another example, the external surfaces 510 may be generally for a first stage of use (i.e., when the child is still at a young age, for example, pre-adolescence). As such, the first and second graphics 514 and 518, which are printed on the external surfaces 510, may comprise more child-like images, including, but not limited to, cartoon characters, such as those found in WALT DISNEY shows or movies. The internal surfaces 520 may be generally for a second stage of use (i.e., when the child has matured and has developed more mature tastes and interests, for example, has grown out of the cartoon phase). As such, the third and fourth graphics 534 and 538, which are printed on the internal surfaces 520, may comprise patterns, including, but not limited to, checkers, argyle, stripes, flowers, dots, subtle character representations, and the like, as opposed to child-like images. Thus, when the child has grown older, for example, into the adolescent, pre-teen, or teenager age, he or she could switch the bedding element 500 from one of the external surface 510 to one of the internal surfaces 520 (e.g., by turning the bedding element inside-out) so as to change the display from the child-like images to the more mature pattern. This will allow for extended use of the bedding element as it extends beyond the child stage.

As a still alternative example, one of the graphics (e.g., the first graphic 514) may include a character, such as, from a show, movie, comic book, or the like, and one of the other graphics (e.g., the second image 518) may include a representation of the character (e.g., a shield, a symbol, a name, or in general any another indication of the character).

It is envisioned, that various combinations of bedding elements (e.g., the bedding elements 100-500) may be packaged and or designed to work with each other by having common themes. Accordingly, a bedding set may include one or more of the bedding elements 100-500, which each may be configured to allow multiple looks and or provide for an extended use as described above.

For example, FIG. 6 illustrates a bedding set 600 that includes bedding elements 610, 620, 630 and 640. As depicted, each of the bedding elements 610-640 include first and second surfaces. More particularly, the bedding element 610, which may correspond to a comforter cover, a comforter, or a blanket, includes a first image 612 printed on a first surface and a second image 614 printed on a second surface, where the first and second images 612 and 614 are different. The bedding element 620, which may correspond to a standard pillow case, a sham pillow case, or a fitted pillow case, includes a first image 622 printed on a first surface and a second image 624 printed on a second surface, where the first and second images 622 and 624 are different. The bedding element 630, which may correspond to a flat sheet or a fitted sheet, includes a first image 632 printed on a first surface and a second image 634 printed on a second surface, where the first and second images 632 and 634 are different. The bedding element 640, which may correspond to a flat sheet or a fitted sheet, includes a first image 642 printed on a first surface and a second image 644 printed on a second surface, where the first and second images 642 and 644 are different.

As depicted, the bedding elements 610-640 of the bedding set 610 all share the same common theme and color story for the first set of images (e.g., 612, 622, 632, and 642), which is different from the common theme and/or color story of the second set of images (e.g., 614, 624, 634, and 644). Thus, when the user, such as a child, has grown older or tired of the first set of images, he or she may switch (e.g., flip over, turn inside-out, or the like) the bedding elements 610-640 such that the second set of images are displayed.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrates an example of a bedding set 700 that includes bedding elements 710 and 720 which may be configured to achieve multiple looks. In general, FIGS. 7A-7B depict alternative looks that may be achieved by the features of the bedding set 700. More particularly, referring to FIG. 7A, a first look is depicted, wherein a first image 712, printed on a first surface of the bedding element 710, as well as first images 722, printed on first surfaces of the bedding elements 720, are displayed. Conversely, referring to FIG. 7B, a second look is depicted using the same bedding set 700, wherein a second image 714, printed on a second surface of the bedding element 710, as well as second images 724, printed on second surfaces of the bedding elements 720, are displayed.

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrates another example bedding set 800 that includes bedding elements 810-840. In general, FIGS. 8A-8B depict alternative looks that may be achieved by the features of the bedding set 800, and which may facilitate an extended use of the bedding set 800 (e.g., from child-hood to pre-teen and/or teenage years).

More particularly, referring to FIG. 8A, a first look is depicted, wherein first image 812, 822, 832, and 842, printed on first surfaces of bedding elements 810, 820, 830, and 840 respectively, are displayed. Conversely, referring to FIG. 8B, a second look is depicted using the same bedding set 800, wherein second images 814, 824, 834, and 844, printed on second surfaces of bedding elements 810, 820, 830, and 840 respectively, are displayed.

FIGS. 9-10 illustrate exemplary packaging inserts for a bedding element and/or set, arranged according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, as described above, a bedding element and/or bedding set may be provided that includes multiple looks represented in at least a first and second graphic. For example, the first graphic may include one character from a movie, and the second graphic may include another character from the same movie. The exemplary packaging and/or marketing stories may depict representations of the different achievable looks as well as may extol the benefits of the multi look and/or extended use bedding elements and sets.

Turning now to FIG. 9, an example packaging insert 900 includes a first image 910 that depicts a first theme and/or color story (e.g., WALT DISNEY'S CINDERELLA in a blue color story) of a bedding element and/or set alongside a second image 920 that depicts a second theme and/or color story (e.g., WALT DISNEY'S CINDERELLA in a pink color story) of the bedding element and/or set. Furthermore, the packaging insert 900 includes representations of the alternative looks achievable with the bedding set corresponding to the packing insert 900, depicted in image inserts 912 (e.g., showing a first achievable look) and 922 (e.g., showing a second achievable look) respectively.

Turning now to FIG. 10, an example packaging insert 1000 includes a first image 1010 depicting a theme and/or color story (e.g., WALT DISNEY'S princesses) of a bedding element and/or set alongside a second image 1020 depicting a first look (e.g., at 1022 showing a more child-like theme) and a second look (e.g., at 1024 showing a more mature theme than that of the first look) both of which are achievable from the bedding element and/or set.

It is to be appreciated that the example packaging inserts and or marketing stories described herein may be used in the method 1100, described hereinafter. The pamphlet may be included in any periodical, newspaper, or the like, or may be standalone, such as a brochure or advertisement sheet. The marketing pamphlet may describe the benefits of a multi-look, multi-color, multi-character, and/or extended use bedding set, such as saving money on multiple bedding sets, as well as the ability to satisfy a desire for change or the ability to use the same bedding set for an extended period of time in which tastes and likes may change.

It should be appreciated that any description, slogan, photos, catch-phrases, and the like may be used to accomplish the task of describing the multi-look bedding set. Furthermore, the marketing may be expressed in any medium. For example, FIGS. 11-12 illustrate example marketing materials 1100 and 1200.

Turning to FIG. 11, an example marketing material 1100 is shown that includes a photo 1102, a slogan 1104 and marketing catch phrases 1106, which may corresponds with a bedding element and/or set that is configured to achieve multiple looks, as described herein.

Turning to FIG. 12, an example marketing material 1200 is shown that includes a photo 1202, a slogan 1204 and marketing catch phrases 1208, which may corresponds with a bedding element and/or set that is configured to achieve an extended use, as described herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of a flowchart for a method 1300, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 1300 may be implemented for manufacturing a multi-look, multi-color, multi-character, and/or extended use bedding set in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

At 1310, a theme (or themes) is determined. For example, as described herein, the theme may be from any movie, television show, and the like, any patterns, such as checkered, argyle, stripes, dots, subtle symbol of a character, and the like, or any other random design, or any combination thereof.

At 1320, a first graphic to be printed on the first surface of at least one of the elements of a bedding set is chosen. As explained above, the first graphic may comprise one character from a movie. In addition to the character, the first graphic may further comprise a specific color theme and any ancillary design elements that fit with the specific character. Alternatively, the first graphic may be just a pattern or random design.

At 1330, a second graphic to be printed on the second surface of at least one of the elements of the bedding set is chosen. As explained above, the second graphic may comprise a different character from the same movie as the first graphic. Similar to the first graphic, the second graphic may also comprise a specific color theme and any ancillary design elements that fit with the specific character and that differ from those of the first graphic. Alternatively, the second graphic may have no association with the first graphic, and may comprise its own theme separate from that of the first graphic. The second graphic may also be just a pattern or random design.

At 1340 and 1350, the first graphic and the second graphic are printed on the first surface and the second surface, respectively. It is envisioned, that 1310-1350 may be repeated for each element of the bedding set, e.g., a pillow case, sham pillow case, fitted sheet, flat sheet, comforter cover, etc. It should be appreciated that 1340 may be performed prior to 1330. Alternatively, 1340 may be performed after 1310, and 1350 after 1320.

The method 1300 may alternatively include 1360 and 1370. At 1360, a third graphic displaying the theme selected at 1310 is developed. In general, the third graphic will display the overall theme(s) and central characters, for example, the different characters from the movies and/or different patterns and/or color stories represented in and achievable by the bedding set. At 1370, the third graphic is printed on an insert. In some examples, the insert may be included with the bedding set.

Alternatively, the insert may be used as a pamphlet to market the theme and different models that fall within the theme.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features.

Some embodiments of the disclosed device may be implemented, for example, using a storage medium, a computer-readable medium or an article of manufacture, which may store an instruction or a set of instructions that, if executed by a machine, may cause the machine to perform a method and/or operations in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. Such a machine may include, for example, any suitable processing platform, computing platform, computing device, processing device, computing system, processing system, computer, processor, or the like, and may be implemented using any suitable combination of hardware and/or software.

The computer-readable medium or article may include, for example, any suitable type of memory unit, memory device, memory article, memory medium, storage device, storage article, storage medium and/or storage unit, for example, memory (including non-transitory memory), removable or non-removable media, erasable or non-erasable media, writeable or re-writeable media, digital or analog media, hard disk, floppy disk, Compact Disk Read Only Memory (CD-ROM), Compact Disk Recordable (CD-R), Compact Disk Rewriteable (CD-RW), optical disk, magnetic media, magneto-optical media, removable memory cards or disks, various types of Digital Versatile Disk (DVD), a tape, a cassette, or the like. The instructions may include any suitable type of code, such as source code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code, encrypted code, and the like, implemented using any suitable high-level, low-level, object-oriented, visual, compiled and/or interpreted programming language.

Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to its embodiment, it is to be understood this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements; the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A bedding set comprising:

a bedding element comprising a cavity, an exterior surface, an interior surface, and an opening through which an object may be inserted into the cavity;

a first graphic printed on the exterior surface; and

a second graphic printed on the interior surface, the first graphic different from the second graphic.

2. The bedding set according to claim 1, where the first and second graphics relate to a character.

3. The bedding set according to claim 2, where the first graphic comprises an image of the character and the second graphic comprises a symbol for the character.

4. The bedding set according to claim 1, where the first graphic relates to a character and the second graphic relates to a pattern.

5. The bedding set according to claim 1, where the first graphic comprises an image of a first character and the second graphic comprises an image of a second character, the first character different from the second character.

6. The bedding set according to claim 5, where the first graphic comprises a more child-like interpretation of the first character than the second graphic does of the second character.

7. The bedding set according to claim 1, where the first graphic and the second graphic relate to a theme, the first graphic comprising a more child-like interpretation of the theme than the second graphic.

8. The bedding set according to claim 1, the bedding element being a first bedding element, the multi-look bedding set further comprising:

a second bedding element comprising a top surface and a bottom surface;

a third graphic printed on the top surface; and

a fourth graphic printed on the bottom surface, the third graphic different than the fourth graphic.

9. The bedding set according to claim 8, where the first graphic is the same as the third graphic and the second graphic is the same as the fourth graphic.

10. The bedding set according to claim 9, where the first bedding element is selected from the group consisting of a pillow case, a sham pillow case, and a comforter cover; and the second bedding element is selected from the group consisting of a flat sheet, and a fitted sheet.

11. A bedding element comprising:

a first graphic printed on a top surface of the bedding element; and

a second graphic printed on a bottom surface of the bedding element, the first graphic different from the second graphic.

12. The bedding element according to claim 11, where the first graphic comprises an image of a character and the second graphic comprises a symbol for the character.

13. The bedding element according to claim 11, where the first graphic comprises an image of a first character and the second graphic comprises an image of a second character, the first character different from the second character.

14. The bedding element according to claim 13, where the first graphic comprises a more child-like interpretation of the first character than the second graphic does of the second character.

15. The bedding element according to claim 11, where the bedding element is a flat sheet or a fitted sheet.

16. The bedding set according to claim 11, the bedding element comprising a cavity and an opening through which an object may be inserted into the cavity and the bedding element is a pillow case, a sham pillow case, or a comforter cover.

17. The bedding set according to claim 16, the bedding element comprising an external surface having a top and bottom surface and an internal surface having a top and bottom surface, where the first graphic is printed on the top and bottom of the external surface and the second graphic is printed on the top and bottom of the internal surface.

18. A method of manufacturing a bedding element having a first surface and a second surface, the method comprising:

determining a theme;

selecting a first graphic to be printed on the first surface based at least in part on the theme;

selecting a second graphic to be printed on the second surface, the first graphic different than the second graphic; and

printing the first graphic and the second graphic on the first surface and the second surface, respectively.

19. The method according to claim 18, further comprising:

selecting a third graphic that displays and describes the theme, where the third graphic comprises elements of the first graphic and the second graphic; and

printing the third graphic on an insert to be included with the bedding element.

20. The method according to claim 18, where the first graphic includes a character and the second graphic includes an indication of the character.