Abstract: Method for creating a crystal/rhinestone template utilizing a sewing/embroidery machine to perforate a medium in a desired pattern. In the case of a multiple-needle sewing/embroidery machine, the machine's needle is replaced by a perforator blade and perforator blade holder which are attached to machine's needle bar. Machine's needle plate is replaced by perforator plate and waste holder. With a single-needle sewing/embroidery machine, machine's needle is replaced by a pressing tool attached to the machine's needle bar. A contact point, a spring, and an arm are attached to machine's presser foot. Machine's needle plate is replaced by perforator plate. A template medium is placed on a work surface of machine. Machine is operated by software that reads a user-specified pattern/motif outline for filling stones in vector form, using innate rules to move machine frame and control hole placement.

Abstract: A grommet glide curtain panel includes a panel with a front-facing side and a back side, a plurality of grommets each being engaged with a fabric tab, and a plurality of spaced fabric tabs attached to a top section of the back side of the panel. The fabric tab is configured to enclose a section of the D-shaped grommet to the panel and is aligned to receive a curtain rod so that the grommets can glide on said rod for easy care, opening, closing, and hanging the panel.

Abstract: A water-resistant connector for use with fabric and sheet-like material comprises two plates stitched to each other on either side of and through the fabric or sheet-like material with at least one gasket made of an elastomeric material such as neoprene being placed between one of the plates and the fabric or sheet-like material. The gasket is stitched through and compressed between the plates so as to press against the stitching for water resistance.

Abstract: An eco-friendly exercise mat cover for an exercise mat comprises a rectangular envelop made from a material with specific characteristics which renders the cover-mat combination useable in various environmental conditions. The cover comprises an opening flap for easy placement and removal of the mat. In an alternative embodiment, the exercise mat cover includes a carrying bag which may be used to conveniently transport the cover-mat combination.

Abstract: A system and method to weight a recreational ground covering comprising a top layer and a bottom layer stitched together along at least one edge and leaving at least one edge open. Along each open edge is a connection system, such as Velcro®, snaps, or buttons, which connects the open edge of the top and bottom layers. Such arrangement creates a “pocket” system such that may be filled with sand, rocks, or any other available objects or substance that may be found naturally without requiring additional equipment or other means to weight or stabilize the covering once it is spread on the ground.

Abstract: A system and method for assembling a prosthetic heart valve, including a procedure for tightly wrapping fabric around a heart valve support stent having a highly contoured undulating outflow edge. A mandrel retains tension without manual assistance in a tubular length of fabric wrapped over the support stent, and includes relatively axially movable inner and outer clamping mechanisms and a pedestal tube on which the support stent rests. The clamping mechanisms include clamps that pull the fabric only in the support stent cusps. The mandrel assembly may be placed in a chuck of a sewing machine system for automatically forming the seam. A small shuttle with bobbin thread reciprocates within a channel inside of the support stent and cooperates with the sewing machine needle to form a lock-stitch in the fabric tube. The mechanization of the fabric covering procedure greatly enhances manufacturing throughput and reduces ergonomic strain on workers.

Abstract: A ball marker patch is described which contains a magnet embedded within two layers of material in a magnet pocket, where the external layer has advertising space on both the patch portion and the magnet pocket portion, which combined with possible advertising space of the outer face of the ball marker, provides three separate advertising spaces as opposed to the single advertising space available in previous caps. The patch can be permanently or removably attached to a variety of parts of various items of clothing. Because the magnet pocket contains curved edges, the ball marker is easy to remove from the magnet pocket.

Abstract: The following information relates to new process of recycling garments. Although the concept of recycling garments is not new, the new process and the results of those process are both new and unexpected. Rarely is the recycling of garments as practical and as easy as the process to be presented. Additionally, these process of recycling can enable apparel manufacturers, sewing boutiques, and even home sewers, to save money and time. Benefits include sewing as little as possible while having the effect that much sewing has taken place. Another gain includes the prospect of recycling garments that failed quality control inspections due to slight imperfections. By utilizing the new process, a marketable children's apparel line can emerge, from what would normally be a loss. Consider the benefits of a new children's apparel line almost completely sewn before the recycling process begin.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a connector by fastening a plurality of the fasteners in an array on a face of a backing sheet and forming an aperture in a first sheet portion for receiving each fastener. Each aperture extends between the opposing first and second surfaces of the first sheet portion. Each fastener is inserted into each respective aperture such that the face of the backing sheet is directed inwardly to lie against the first surface. A second sheet portion is abutted with the second surface and joining the first and second sheet portions such that they are joined along at least two opposing edges common to both the first and second sheet portions. The backing sheet is fixed to the first or second sheet portion and inverting the first and second sheet portions such that the face of the backing sheet is directed outwardly. Each fastener protrudes outwardly from each aperture and the backing sheet lies between the first and second sheet portions.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for the automatic tufting of upholstery units using tufts comprising a retaining link with a tuft element at either end and associated with further tufts is provided. The device comprises engagement device for a tuft device for separating the engaged tuft from the associated tufts; device for driving one tuft element and the retaining link of the engaged tuft through an upholstery unit and withdrawing the engagement device once the tuft is released; and device for automatically reloading the device with a further tuft. A method of automatically tufting upholstery units using such a device is also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for marking fabric in a permanent or semipermanent manner includes a plurality of foam markers which are compressible to a smaller size. Upon release of external pressure, the foam markers expand to their original shape and volume. An insertion tool is provided for inserting the foam markers into fabric. The insertion tool comprises an elongate tubular member which has a marker receiving opening on a first end. A pointed tip is located on the second end of the insertion tool to facilitate insertion of the tool between the threads of the fabric being marked. A marker may be compressed by rolling the marker between a thumb and finger. The compressed marker is then partially inserted into the opening of the insertion tool so that a portion of the marker protrudes from the end of the insertion tool. The tip of the insertion tool is then inserted through the fabric at a desired location.