Multi-Spool Rack Device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a novel multi-spool rack device. The device is a tiered storage rack that can be used when crocheting graphghan blankets and other similar items. The device comprises a base component with a plurality of dowel components that are sized to receive yarn spools. The plurality of dowel components are inserted through offset holes in both sides of the base component to support the yarn spools. The plurality of dowel components are secured to the base component via hitch pins. The base component also comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement and rotation of the device. Thus, users can install different colors of yarn on the plurality of dowel components and easily access them without worry of tangles occurring within the yarn.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/359,471, which was filed on Jul. 8, 2022, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of multi-spool rack devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improved multi-spool rack device that provides users with a portable storage rack for multiple different colors of yarn spools. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

By way of background, this invention relates to improvements in multi-spool rack devices. Generally, projects, such as graphghan blankets, that are left incomplete for periods of time can be difficult to restart due to tangles in the yarn. Excessive tangles can be difficult to release, and material may be lost if it is damaged in any way. Further, knots must be tied if the incorrect amount of yarn is left on a spool for a specific pattern.

Additionally, storing knitting supplies, such as the yarn spools or skeins, knitting needles, crocheting hooks, scissors and other accessories in an organized manner has been a challenge. Currently, totes such as bags with pockets to place various supplies are available. However, these bags do not assist the knitter in the knitting process or aid in rapid removal and retrieval of the supplies on demand. Instead, the knitter typically must rummage through the bag to find the supplies needed.

For many years, crochet yarn has been available on tubular-shaped spools and cone-shaped spools. For convenience, the yarn is pulled directly from the spools while knitting or crocheting. Since the spools are tubular in shape, such spools have a tendency to roll or tip over and unravel, as the yarn is pulled. When the yarn unravels, the yarn may become tangled or soiled. As can be appreciated, controlling multiple spools of yarn when knitting with different yarns or yarn colors is even more challenging and frustrating to the knitter.

Accordingly, a storage rack for yarn spools, as well as accessories is needed. This storage rack should not only store the yarn spools and accessories, but should prevent tangles, as well as damages to the material. As such, a visually appealing storage rack for yarn spools and other accessories is needed.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that provides users with a portable storage rack for multiple different colors of yarn spools. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that features wooden dowels that support the spools and are secured in place via hitch pins. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that allows users access to the yarn without worry of tangles forming and ruining the yarn while working from the backside of the project and spool. Moreover, there is a long-felt need in the art for a device that includes wheels on the base to easily move and rotate the rack for easily accessing any color of yarn installed on the dowels. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that saves extensive time and effort when working on graphghan blankets and other similar crafting projects. Finally, there is a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that is decorative and effective at storing multiple yarn spools and accessories.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a multi-spool rack device. The device is a tiered storage rack that can be used when crocheting graphghan blankets and other similar items. The device comprises a base component with a plurality of dowel components that are sized to receive yarn spools. The plurality of dowel components are inserted through offset holes in both sides of the base component, to support the yarn spools. The plurality of dowel components are secured to the base component via hitch pins. The base component also comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement and rotation of the device. Thus, users can install different colors of yarn on the plurality of dowel components and easily access them without worry of tangles occurring within the yarn.

In this manner, the multi-spool rack device of the present invention accomplishes all of the foregoing objectives and provides users with a device that saves time and effort when working on crafting projects. The device can be constructed using plywood, plastic, and other suitable materials. The device can retain most standard spools of yarn, as well as other crafting accessories.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a multi-spool rack device. The device is a tiered storage rack that can be used when crocheting graphghan blankets and other similar items. The device comprises a base component with a plurality of dowel components that are sized to receive yarn spools. Thus, users can install different colors of yarn on the plurality of dowel components and easily access them without worry of tangles occurring within the yarn.

In one embodiment, the multi-spool rack device comprises a base component being configured to arrange, store, and carry knitting and/or crocheting supplies and to assist in the easy supply of yarn from one or more spools of yarn during the knitting/crocheting process. The multi-spool rack device is configured to be movable in nature to carry, hold, arrange, and organize multiple yarn spools/skeins, as well as, other knitting and/or crocheting supplies such as, without limitation, scissors, knitting or crocheting needles, knitting wheels, sock blockers, stitch markers, yarn cutters, as well as unfinished or partially completed projects, etc.

The “unfinished or partially completed projects” may include a line of knitted or crocheted stitches, a partially completed knitted article or crocheted articles, or a completed knitted or crocheted article, etc. For example, if the user is knitting a throw or something else that can be set onto the base component, then the throw or blanket can be hung on the side of the device to keep the knitting/crocheting that is being worked on with the yarn in the device. Thus, the user need not worry about the throw or blanket getting all tangled up or misplaced.

In one embodiment, the multi-spool rack device comprises a base component being in a rectangular configuration with a length that is at least as long as multiple spools of yarn arranged end to end with a separation or gap between each spool and a width at least as wide as two spools of yarn arranged side by side in parallel along a horizontal plane. Further, in this embodiment, the base member has enough weight so that the base member will not tip over under the tug and pull of yarn by the user when knitting or crocheting.

Furthermore, the base member includes two side wall members. The two side wall members are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the base member. Generally, the two side wall members are also in a rectangular configuration, with the length and the width of the side wall members being approximately the same as the length and width of the base member to which the side wall members are attached. In the exemplary embodiment, the side wall members are detachably connected to the base member by fasteners or screw (bolt) members or other suitable fastening means in such a way that the side wall members create vertically upright end walls at opposite ends of the base member.

In another embodiment, the base member and the side wall members may be integrated into a single unitary body. The base member may be made of a first material while the side wall members are made of a second material, wherein the first material and the second material are different. Alternately, the first material and the second material are the same material.

Further, the length of the side wall members comprise a plurality of spaced-apart through-holes. Each through-hole in one of the side wall members is aligned (horizontally and vertically) with another through-hole in the other side wall member. The two through-holes that are aligned retain and support a dowel component, such that said pair of through-holes provide support for a dowel component and allow a spool of yarn to rotate on the dowel component. Accordingly, the dowel components are secured in both side wall members and allow the spool or skein to rotate freely when operatively positioned.

In one embodiment, the dowel components are elongated tubular or cylindrical members that can be hollow or solid, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. The ends of the hollow dowel components can be closed with an end cap or other suitable component. The ends of the solid dowel components can also comprise an end cap, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. The dowel components are made of a specific diameter pipe or plastic, polymer, or other suitable material, including manufactured materials, natural materials or a combination of manufactured and natural materials. Specifically, the dowel components comprise such a size diameter that a spool of yarn can be threaded onto the dowel component. Thus, multiple spools of yarn are distributed over the length of the dowel components.

In one embodiment, the dowel components comprise a securing means, such as a hitch pin positioned at each end, next to the end cap, secured on an exterior side of the side wall members. The hitch pin secures the dowel component onto the side wall members of the device. Any suitable removable securing means as is known in the art can be utilized, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. The hitch pins are adapted to hold the dowel components in place, while allowing the spools of yarn to rotate between the side wall members, as the dowel components rotate within the through-holes of the side wall members.

As can be appreciated, the spools or skeins are each horizontally cradled by the dowel components of the multi-spool rack device. The spool or skein may be rotated manually or mechanically in the dowel components of the device. Each spool or skein may be loaded with one or more packs or bundles of yarn. The yarn is typically already on the spool or skein and may be off-loaded and loaded or wound on one of the other spools or skeins. Nonetheless, yarn pre-packed on spools or skeins may be used with the multi-spool rack device. The spools can rotate either clockwise or counterclockwise to release the yarn.

In one embodiment, the plurality of spools of yarn would be sized and shaped to freely rotate on the dowel components. Further, the plurality of spools of yarn each include an elongated hollow cylindrically shaped spool structure or spool shaft having a diameter greater than a diameter of the dowel components. Further, the ends of the shaft comprise a spool flange, such that the diameter of the spool flange allows a portion of the yarn to be wound around the spool shaft and not slip off the distal ends of the spool shaft. The distal ends of the spool shaft are coupled to the interior sides of the spool flanges. Thus, use of the spool flanges at both sides of the spool shaft allow the user to place multiple spools of yarn, one after another, in continuance and keep the yarn separated so as to eliminate tangling on the device.

For example, multiple spools of yarn are commonly used in knitting and crocheting a project (i.e., throw, blanket, hat, gloves, socks, scarves, sweaters, etc.). Thus, a user may need to use two or more spools of yarn (same colors or different colors/textures) for the same project. The device allows a user to place two or more yarn spools separately on the dowel components for use.

Further, an empty yarn spool can easily be interchanged with a filled spool or skein during the process. A user merely removes the hitch pins on the corresponding dowel component and threads off the empty spool and threads on a filled spool, as needed. When knitting or crocheting, an external force or pull is applied to the yarn to rotate the spools and/or dowel components horizontally, causing the spools or skeins to individually or simultaneously rotate clockwise or counterclockwise as per a user's requirement. Thus, the device allows a user to supply yarn without the yarn getting tangled in the process.

In one embodiment, the multi-spool rack device provides a movable yarn supply device configured to carry multiple spools of yarn for easy supply of yarn in knitting and/or crocheting operations. Any suitable number of yarn spools can be retained on the device as is known in the art. In this embodiment, a plurality of yarns may be simultaneously used in the knitting or crocheting process, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user.

In one embodiment, the base component comprises a plurality of wheels secured to an underside, such that the wheels facilitate movement and rotation of the device. Any suitable number of wheels can be utilized as is known in the art, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Further, any suitable wheels, castors, casters, swivel wheels, etc., can be utilized as is known in the art.

In yet another embodiment, the multi-spool device comprises a carrying handle connected to and between the side wall members. The carrying handle comprises a hollow or solid elongated member that may be cylindrically shaped or has other geometric or non-geometric shapes that can be gripped by the user. The carrying handle may be gripped by a user's hands to carry the device from one place to another. In another embodiment, the cylindrically shaped carrying handle also can be used to hang an article, unfinished project (i.e., throw, blanket, sweater, etc.) or knitting/crocheting supplies capable of being draped over the handle.

In a further embodiment, the multi-spool rack device further comprises at least one hanging means secured to one or more of the side wall members, on the interior or exterior of the side wall member. The hanging means can be a hook or other suitable hanging means as is known in the art. The hanging means act as accessory holders that may be used to hang a partially completed project, supplies, accessories, tools, etc.

In one embodiment, the multi-spool rack device can be manufactured in a variety of sizes and shapes to support a plurality of yarn spools simultaneously. Each spool may support yarn of different thicknesses, compositions, and color. Further, the multi-spool rack device may be made of a variety of materials, such as, for example, wood, plywood, plastic or polyethylene composites, metals, other natural materials, other synthetic materials, and combinations thereof. In yet another embodiment, the multi-spool rack device comprises a plurality of indicia.

In yet another embodiment, a method of storing a plurality of yarn spools in an organized and functional configuration is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a multi-spool rack device comprising a base component with a plurality of dowel components, which are inserted through offset holes in both sides of the base component to support the yarn spools and a plurality of wheels for transportation of the device. The method also comprises inserting multiple yarn spools of different colors onto the dowel components. Further, the method comprises inserting the dowel components through offset holes on the base component and securing the dowel components via hitch pins. Finally, the method comprises easily accessing the plurality of yarn spools without worry of tangles occurring during use.

Numerous benefits and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains, upon reading and understanding the following detailed specification.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the multi-spool rack device of the present invention showing how the device can support a plurality of yarn spools in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the multi-spool rack device of the present invention showing how the yarn spools are secured to the dowel components in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the multi-spool rack device of the present invention showing how the dowel components are secured via hitch pins in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the multi-spool rack device of the present invention showing the base component and wheels in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the multi-spool rack device of the present invention in use in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart showing one potential method of storing a plurality of yarn spools in an organized and functional configuration in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there is a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that provides users with a portable storage rack for multiple different colors of yarn spools. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that features wooden dowels that support the spools and are secured in place via hitch pins. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that allows users access to the yarn without worry of tangles forming and ruining the yarn while working from the backside of the project and spool. Moreover, there is a long-felt need in the art for a device that includes wheels on the base to easily move and rotate the rack for easily accessing any color of yarn installed on the dowels. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that saves extensive time and effort when working on graphghan blankets and other similar crafting projects. Finally, there is a long-felt need in the art for a multi-spool rack device that is decorative and effective at storing multiple yarn spools and accessories.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a novel multi-spool rack device. The device is a tiered storage rack that can be used when crocheting graphghan blankets and other similar items. The device comprises a base component with a plurality of dowel components that are sized to receive yarn spools. The plurality of dowel components are inserted through offset holes in both sides of the base component to support the yarn spools. The plurality of dowel components are secured to the base component via hitch pins. The base component also comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement and rotation of the device. Thus, users can install different colors of yarn on the plurality of dowel components and easily access them without worry of tangles occurring within the yarn. The present invention also includes a novel method of storing a plurality of yarn spools in an organized and functional configuration. The method includes the steps of providing a multi-spool rack device comprising a base component with a plurality of dowel components, which are inserted through offset holes in both sides of the base component to support the yarn spools and a plurality of wheels for transportation of the device. The method also comprises inserting multiple yarn spools of different colors onto the dowel components. Further, the method comprises inserting the dowel components through offset holes on the base component and securing the dowel components via hitch pins. Finally, the method comprises easily accessing the plurality of yarn spools without worry of tangles occurring during use.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the multi-spool rack device 100 of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the multi-spool rack device 100 is an improved multi-spool rack device 100 that is a tiered storage rack that can be used when crocheting graphghan blankets and other similar items. Specifically, the device 100 is a portable storage rack for multiple different colors of yarn spools. The multi-spool rack device 100 comprises a base component 102 with a plurality of dowel components 104 that are sized to receive yarn spools 106. Thus, users can install different colors of yarn on the plurality of dowel components 104 and easily access them without worry of tangles occurring within the yarn.

Further, the multi-spool rack device 100 comprises a base component 102 being configured to arrange, store, and carry knitting and/or crocheting supplies and to assist in the easy supply of yarn from one or more spools of yarn 106 during the knitting/crocheting process. The multi-spool rack device 100 is configured to be movable in nature to carry, hold, arrange, and organize multiple yarn spools/skeins 106, as well as, other knitting and/or crocheting supplies such as, without limitation, scissors, knitting or crocheting needles, knitting wheels, sock blockers, stitch markers, yarn cutters, as well as unfinished or partially completed projects 108, etc.

The “unfinished or partially completed projects” 108 may include a line of knitted or crocheted stitches, a partially completed knitted article or crocheted article, or a completed knitted or crocheted article, etc. For example, if the user is knitting a throw or something else that can be set onto the base component 102, then the throw or blanket can be hung on the side of the device 100 to keep the knitting/crocheting that is being worked on with the yarn in the device 100. Thus, the user need not worry about the throw or blanket getting all tangled up or misplaced.

Additionally, the multi-spool rack device 100 comprises a base component 102 being in a rectangular configuration with a length that is at least as long as multiple spools of yarn 106 arranged end to end with a separation or gap between each spool 106 and a width at least as wide as two spools of yarn 106 arranged side by side in parallel along a horizontal plane. Further, in this embodiment, the base member 102 has enough weight so that the base member 102 will not tip over under the tug and pull of yarn by the user when knitting or crocheting.

Furthermore, the base member 102 includes two side wall members 110. The two side wall members 110 are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the base member 102. Generally, the two side wall members 110 are also in a rectangular configuration with the length and the width of the side wall members 110 being approximately the same as the length and width of the base member 102 to which the side wall members 110 are attached. In an exemplary embodiment, the side wall members 110 are detachably connected to the base member 102 by fasteners or screw (bolt) members or other suitable fastening means in such a way that side wall members 110 create vertically upright end walls at opposite ends of the base member 102.

In one embodiment, the base member 102 and the side wall members 110 may be integrated into a single unitary body. The base member 102 may be made of a first material while the side wall members 110 are made of a second material, wherein the first material and the second material are different. Alternately, the first material and the second material are the same material.

As shown in FIG. 2, the length of the side wall members 110 comprise a plurality of spaced-apart through-holes 200, offset from one another. Any suitable number of through-holes 200 can be utilized as is known in the art, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Each through-hole 200 in one of the side wall members 110 is aligned (horizontally and vertically) with another through-hole 200 in the other side wall member 110. The two through-holes 200 that are aligned retain and support a dowel component 104, such that said pair of through-holes 200 provide support for a dowel component 104 and allow a spool of yarn 106 to rotate on the dowel component 104. Accordingly, the dowel components 104 are secured in both side wall members 110 and allow the spool or skein 106 to rotate freely when operatively positioned.

Furthermore, the dowel components 104 are elongated tubular or cylindrical members that can be hollow or solid, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. The ends 202 of the hollow dowel components 104 can be closed with an end cap 204 or other suitable component. The ends 202 of the solid dowel components 104 can also comprise an end cap 204, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. The dowel components 104 are made of a specific diameter pipe or plastic, polymer, or other suitable material, including manufactured materials, natural materials or a combination of manufactured and natural materials. Specifically, the dowel components 104 comprise such a size diameter that a spool of yarn 106 can be threaded onto the dowel component 104. Thus, multiple spools of yarn 106 are distributed over the length of the dowel components 104.

As shown in FIG. 3, the dowel components 104 comprise a securing means, such as a hitch pin 300, positioned at each end 202 next to the end cap 204, secured on an exterior side 302 of the side wall members 110. The hitch pin 300 secures the dowel component 104 onto the side wall members 110 of the device 100. Any suitable removable securing means as is known in the art can be utilized, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. The hitch pins 300 are adapted to hold the dowel components 104 in place, while allowing the spools of yarn 106 to rotate between the side wall members 110 as the dowel components 104 rotate within the through-holes 200 of the side wall members 110.

As can be appreciated, the spools or skeins 106 are each horizontally cradled by the dowel components 104 of the multi-spool rack device 100. The spool or skein 106 may be rotated manually or mechanically in the dowel components 104 of the device 100. Each spool or skein 106 may be loaded with one or more packs or bundles of yarn. The yarn is typically already on the spool or skein 106 and may be off-loaded and loaded or wound on one of the other spools or skeins 106. Nonetheless, yarn pre-packed on spools or skeins 106 may be used with the multi-spool rack device 100. The spools 106 can rotate either clockwise or counterclockwise to release the yarn.

Further, the plurality of spools of yarn 106 would be sized and shaped to freely rotate on the dowel components 104. Further, the plurality of spools of yarn 106 each include an elongated hollow cylindrically shaped spool structure or spool shaft 304 having a diameter greater than a diameter of the dowel components 104. Further, the ends 306 of the shaft 304 comprise a spool flange 308, such that the diameter of the spool flange 308 allows a portion of the yarn to be wound around the spool shaft 304 and not slip off the distal ends 306 of the spool shaft 304. The distal ends 306 of the spool shaft 304 are coupled to the interior sides 310 of the spool flanges 308. Thus, use of the spool flanges 308 at both sides of the spool shaft 304 allow the user to place multiple spools of yarn 106, one after another, in continuance and keep the yarn separated so as to eliminate tangling on the device 100.

For example, multiple spools of yarn 106 are commonly used in knitting and crocheting a project 108 (i.e., throw, blanket, hat, gloves, socks, scarves, sweaters, etc.). Thus, a user may need to use two or more spools of yarn 106 (same colors or different colors/textures) for the same project 108. The device 100 allows a user to place two or more yarn spools 106 separately on the dowel components 104 for use.

Further, an empty yarn spool 106 can easily be interchanged with a filled spool or skein 106 during the process. A user merely removes the hitch pins 300 on the corresponding dowel component 104 and threads off the empty spool 106 and threads on a filled spool 106, as needed. When knitting or crocheting, an external force or pull is applied to the yarn to rotate the spools 106 and/or dowel components 104 horizontally, causing the spools or skeins 106 to individually or simultaneously rotate clockwise or counterclockwise as per a user's requirement. Thus, the device 100 allows a user to supply yarn without the yarn getting tangled in the process.

As shown in FIG. 4, the multi-spool rack device 100 provides a movable yarn supply device 100 configured to carry multiple spools of yarn 106 for easy supply of yarn in knitting and/or crocheting operations. Any suitable number of yarn spools 106 can be retained on the device 100 as is known in the art. In this embodiment, a plurality of yarn spools 106 may be simultaneously used in the knitting or crocheting process, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user.

Furthermore, the base component 102 comprises a plurality of wheels 400 secured to an underside 402, such that the wheels 400 facilitate movement and rotation of the device 100. Any suitable number of wheels 400 can be utilized as is known in the art, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Further, any suitable wheels, castors, casters, swivel wheels, etc., can be utilized as is known in the art.

As shown in FIG. 5, the multi-spool device 100 comprises a carrying handle 500 connected to and between the side wall members 110. The carrying handle 500 comprises a hollow or solid elongated member that may be cylindrically shaped or has other geometric or non-geometric shapes that can be gripped by the user 502. The carrying handle 500 may be gripped by a user's hands to carry the device 100 from one place to another. In another embodiment, the cylindrically shaped carrying handle 500 can also be used to hang an article, unfinished project 108 (i.e., throw, blanket, sweater, etc.) or knitting/crocheting supplies capable of being draped over the handle 500.

In one embodiment, the multi-spool rack device 100 further comprises at least one hanging means 504 secured to one or more of the side wall members 110, on the interior 506 or exterior 302 of the side wall member 110. The hanging means 504 can be a hook or other suitable hanging means as is known in the art. The hanging means 504 acts as an accessory holder that may be used to hang a partially completed project 108, supplies, accessories, tools, etc.

Generally, the multi-spool rack device 100 can be manufactured in a variety of sizes and shapes to support a plurality of yarn spools 106 simultaneously. Each spool 106 may support yarn of different thicknesses, compositions, and colors. Further, the multi-spool rack device 100 may be made of a variety of materials, such as, for example, wood, plywood, plastic or polyethylene composites, PVC, ABS, metals, other natural materials, other synthetic materials and combinations thereof, or any other suitable materials as is known in the art, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user.

Furthermore, the multi-spool rack device 100 comprises a plurality of indicia 508. The base component 102 of the device 100 may include advertising, trademark, or other letters, designs, or characters, printed, painted, stamped, or integrated into the base component 102, or any other indicia 508 as is known in the art. Specifically, any suitable indicia 508 as is known in the art can be included, such as, but not limited to, patterns, logos, emblems, images, symbols, designs, letters, words, characters, animals, advertisements, brands, etc., that may or may not be craft, yarn, or brand related.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of the method of storing a plurality of yarn spools in an organized and functional configuration. The method includes the steps of at 600, providing a multi-spool rack device comprising a base component with a plurality of dowel components, which are inserted through offset holes in both sides of the base component to support the yarn spools and a plurality of wheels for transportation of the device. The method also comprises at 602, inserting multiple yarn spools of different colors onto the dowel components. Further, the method comprises at 604, inserting the dowel components through offset holes on the base component and securing the dowel components via hitch pins. Finally, the method comprises at 606, easily accessing the plurality of yarn spools without worry of tangles occurring during use.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different users may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “multi-spool rack device”, “rack device”, and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the multi-spool rack device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the multi-spool rack device 100 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the multi-spool rack device 100 as shown in FIGS. 1-6 are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the multi-spool rack device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the multi-spool rack device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the multi-spool rack device 100 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A multi-spool rack device configured to arrange, store, and carry knitting and crocheting supplies and to assist in an easy supply of yarn, the multi-spool rack device comprising:

a base component; and

a plurality of dowel components sized to receive a plurality of yarn spools, wherein the plurality of yarn spools are each horizontally cradled by the plurality of dowel components and the plurality of yarn spools are rotated manually on the plurality of dowel components during use.

2. The multi-spool rack device of claim 1, wherein the base component comprises a rectangular configuration with a length that is at least as long as multiple spools of yarn arranged end to end with a gap between each spool and a width at least as wide as two spools of yarn arranged side by side in parallel along a horizontal plane.

3. The multi-spool rack device of claim 2, wherein the base member has enough weight so that the base member will not tip over under tug and pull of yarn by a user when knitting or crocheting.

4. The multi-spool rack device of claim 3, wherein the base member comprises two side wall members.

5. The multi-spool rack device of claim 4, wherein the two side wall members are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the base member.

6. The multi-spool rack device of claim 5, wherein the two side wall members comprise a rectangular configuration, with a length and a width of the two side wall members being approximately same as the length and width of the base member to which the two side wall members are attached.

7. The multi-spool rack device of claim 6, wherein the two side wall members are detachably connected to the base member by fasteners to create vertically upright end walls at opposite ends of the base member.

8. The multi-spool rack device of claim 7, wherein the base member and the two side wall members are integrated into a single unitary body.

9. The multi-spool rack device of claim 8, wherein a length of the two side wall members comprise a plurality of spaced-apart through-holes, offset from one another.

10. The multi-spool rack device of claim 9, wherein each through-hole in one of the two side wall members is aligned, horizontally and vertically, with another through-hole in other of two side wall members.

11. The multi-spool rack device of claim 10, wherein the two through-holes that are aligned retain and support a dowel component and allow a spool of yarn to rotate on the dowel component.

12. The multi-spool rack device of claim 11, wherein the dowel components comprise an elongated, cylindrical member.

13. The multi-spool rack device of claim 12, wherein ends of the dowel components can be secured with an end cap.

14. The multi-spool rack device of claim 13, wherein the dowel components comprise a hitch pin positioned at each end, next to the end cap.

15. A multi-spool rack device configured to arrange, store, and carry knitting and crocheting supplies and to assist in an easy supply of yarn, the multi-spool rack device comprising:

a base component; and

a plurality of dowel components sized to receive a plurality of yarn spools;

wherein the plurality of yarn spools are each horizontally cradled by the plurality of dowel components and the plurality of yarn spools are rotated manually on the plurality of dowel components during use;

wherein the base member comprises two side wall members, parallel to each other and perpendicular to the base member;

wherein the two side wall members are detachably connected to the base member by fasteners to create vertically upright end walls at opposite ends of the base member;

wherein a length of the two side wall members comprise a plurality of spaced-apart through-holes, offset from one another;

wherein each through-hole in one of the two side wall members is aligned, horizontally and vertically, with another through-hole in other of two side wall members; and

further wherein the two through-holes that are aligned retain and support a dowel component and allow a spool of yarn to rotate on the dowel component.

16. The multi-spool rack device of claim 15 further comprising a plurality of wheels.

17. The multi-spool rack device of claim 15 further comprising a plurality of indicia.

18. The multi-spool rack device of claim 15, wherein the base member has enough weight so that the base member will not tip over under tug and pull of yarn by a user when knitting or crocheting.

19. The multi-spool rack device of claim 15, wherein the dowel components comprise a hitch pin positioned at each end.

20. A method of storing a plurality of yarn spools in an organized and functional configuration, the method comprising the steps of:

providing a multi-spool rack device comprising a base component with a plurality of dowel components, which are inserted through offset holes in both sides of the base component to support the yarn spools and a plurality of wheels for transportation of the device;

inserting multiple yarn spools of different colors onto the dowel components;

inserting the dowel components through offset holes on the base component and securing the dowel components via hitch pins; and

accessing the plurality of yarn spools without worry of tangles occurring during use.