Universal Wreath Decoration System

Abstract

A universal decoration apparatus system comprises decorative elements, such as a floral arrangement, and a base having at least two different attachment mechanisms for attachment of the decoration apparatus to a standard wreath or other substrate without requiring any modification of the wreath. Multiple decoration apparatuses may be used together to achieve different looks or may be swapped out for a change of season or holiday. Wires, clips, magnets, suction cups, and straight pins may be used as base attachment mechanisms to accommodate a variety of different wreath materials and shapes. Unused wires may be tucked away from view and unused clips may be removed. Wires having different characteristics, such as color and gauge, may be selectively used according to the particular wreath base and display conditions. Clips may be selectively positionable at different angles to aid in secure attachment of the decoration apparatus.

Claims

1. A decoration apparatus comprising: a base having an upper surface and a lower surface; one or more decorative elements attached to the upper surface of the base; a first base attachment mechanism; a second base attachment mechanism different from the first base attachment mechanism; wherein one or both base attachment mechanisms are configured to removably attach the decoration apparatus to any selected position on a substrate; and wherein the first base attachment mechanism is removable from the apparatus, or the second base attachment mechanism is configured to be hidden when not in use so it is not visible from a rear side of the decoration apparatus, or both.

2. The decoration apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the substrate is a standard commercially available wreath and no modification of the wreath is required to attach the decoration apparatus to the wreath using at least one of the first or second base attachment mechanisms at any desired location on the wreath.

3. The decoration apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the first base attachment mechanism is a plurality of clips, at least two of which are spaced apart from each other along the base and the second base attachment mechanism is a plurality of wires, at least two of which are space apart from each other along the base.

4. The decoration apparatus according to claim 3 wherein at least one clip is disposed to open toward a right side of the base and at least one other clip is disposed to open toward a left side of the base.

5. The decoration apparatus according to claim 4 wherein at least one clip is disposed at a first angle and at least one other clip is disposed at a second angle, the first angle being different from the second angle.

6. The decoration apparatus according to claim 3 further comprising a clip slot for each clip, each clip slot disposed through the base and configured to receive an arm of the clip.

7. The decoration apparatus according to claim 6 wherein each clip is selectively positionable in any one of the clip slots as needed to achieve a secure attachment to a portion of the wreath.

8. The decoration apparatus according to claim 7 further comprising a clip pocket for each clip slot, each clip pocket providing an area for selective positioning of the clip inserted into the pocket to dispose the clip at an angle.

9. The decoration apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the angle is between about 120 and 240.

10. The decoration apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the second base attachment mechanism is a plurality of wire sets, each set comprising a first wire and a second wire; and wherein each first wire is different from each second wire in coloration, gauge, length, or any combination thereof.

11. The decoration apparatus according to claim 10 further comprising a wire slot for each set of wires, each wire slot configured to allow insertion of unused wires to hide them from view during use of the apparatus.

12. The decoration apparatus according to claim 3 further comprising a wire slot for each wire, each wire slot configured to allow insertion of at least one unused wire so the unused wire is not visible from a rear side of the decoration apparatus.

13. The decoration apparatus according to claim 3 further comprising a plurality of pin locations disposed along the base, each pin location configured to allow insertion of a straight pin through at least a portion of the decorative elements and the base as a third base attachment mechanism.

14. The decoration apparatus according to claim 13 wherein each pin location is marked on the base or on the decorative elements.

15. The decoration apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus is removably attachable to more than one type of substrate and wherein the first base attachment mechanism is configured to attach the apparatus to at least one type of substrate and the second base attachment mechanism is configured to attach the apparatus to at least one other type of substrate.

16. The decoration apparatus according to claim 15 wherein a first type of substrate is a glass door or window and the first base attachment mechanism is a plurality of suction cups disposed on the base

17. The decoration apparatus according to claim 16 wherein a second type of substrate is a metal door and the second base attachment mechanism is a plurality of magnets disposed on a rear surface of the base or between the base and the decorative elements.

18. The decoration apparatus according to claim 16 wherein a second type of substrate is a standard commercially available wreath or basket and the second base attachment mechanism is a plurality of wires disposed on the base or between the base and decorative elements.

19. The decoration apparatus according to claim 18 further comprising a plurality of removable clips or clips permanently attached to the base as a third base attachment mechanism for attachment of the apparatus to the wreath or basket.

20. The decoration apparatus according to claim 15 wherein at least one base attachment mechanism is configured to attach the apparatus to at least two different types of substrates and wherein the types of substrates comprise a foam wreath, a cork wreath, a grapevine wreath, a branch wreath, a wire wreath, a bulletin board, a vase, a basket, a bucket, a metal door, a glass door, a window boards, a lamp shade, a mirror; a magnet board, or a magnetic appliance.

21. The decoration apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising: a first portion of at least one decoration attachment mechanism disposed on a bottom surface of the decorative element; and a second portion of the at least one decoration attachment mechanism disposed on the upper surface of the base, the first and second portions configured to engage with each other to removably attach the decorative element to the base.

22. The decoration apparatus according to claim 21 wherein the decoration attachment mechanism is hook and loop tape or snaps.

23. The decoration apparatus according to claim 21 further comprising at least two decorative elements, a first decorative element corresponding to a first season or holiday and a second decorative element corresponding to a second season or holiday, the first and second decorative elements each having the first portion of the decoration attachment mechanism to allow the first or second decorative elements to be selectively attachable to the base.

24. The decoration apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising at least two decorative elements, a first decorative element attached to a first base and a second decorative element attached to a second base, each base having the first and second base attachment mechanisms, and wherein the first and second decorative elements are configured to be used together on a single substrate.

25. A method of making a reusable decoration apparatus, the method comprising: attaching at least one decorative element to an upper surface of a base; attaching a first base attachment mechanism to the base; attaching a second base attachment mechanism to the base, the second base attachment mechanism being different from the first base attachment mechanism; wherein one or both base attachment mechanisms are configured to removably attach the reusable decoration apparatus to any selected position on a substrate; and wherein the first base attachment mechanism is removable from the apparatus, or the second base attachment mechanism is configured to be hidden within an opening disposed between the decoration elements and the base when not in use, or both.

26. The method of claim 25 wherein the first base attachment mechanism is at least two clips spaced apart from each other along the base, the method further comprising: cutting a slot in the base for each clip, each slot configured to receive an arm of the clip with the other arm of the clip disposed on a rear side of the base to engage the substrate.

27. The method of claim 26 further comprising inserting an arm of each clip into each slot and permanently attaching the inserted arm to the decorative element or the base or both.

28. The method of claim 26 wherein the clips are removable from the base and the method further comprises providing a pocket disposed between the decorative element and base for each slot, each pocket configured to allow the arm of the clip inserted through its corresponding slot to be selectively positioned at an angle relative to the slot.

29. The method of claim 26 wherein the second base attachment mechanism is a plurality of wires, at least two of which are space apart from each other along the base and an end of each wire extending laterally beyond a side edge of the base, the method further comprising: providing at least one opening for each wire, each opening between the decorative element and base and configured to receive the laterally extending ends of any wire not used in attaching the reusable decoration apparatus to a substrate.

30. The method of claim 29 further comprising attaching a third base attachment mechanism to the base, the third base attachment mechanism being a magnet or a suction cup.

31. A method of decorating a substrate, the method comprising: providing at least one reusable decoration apparatus, each decoration apparatus comprising a decorative element attached to a base having at least two different base attachment mechanisms, wherein at least a first base attachment mechanism is configured to allow the decoration apparatus to be attached to a first type of substrate and the second base attachment mechanism is configured to allow the decoration apparatus to be attached to the first type of substrate or a second type of substrate or both, and wherein one of the attachment mechanisms is configured to be removable from the base or hidden by the base when not in use to attach the decoration apparatus to the substrate; providing the substrate; selectively positioning the decoration apparatus on the substrate; and if the substrate is the first type of substrate, (1) attaching the decoration apparatus to the substrate using the first base attachment mechanism and optionally the second base attachment mechanism or (2) attaching the decoration apparatus to the substrate using the first base attachment mechanism and optionally removing or hiding the second base attachment mechanism; or if the substrate is the second type of substrate, attaching the decoration apparatus to the substrate using the second base attachment mechanism and optionally removing or hiding the first base attachment mechanism.

32. The method of claim 31 wherein the first and second types of substrates are selected from the group consisting of a foam wreath, a cork wreath, a grapevine wreath, a branch wreath, a wire wreath, a bulletin board, a vase, a basket, a bucket, a metal door, a glass door, a window boards, a lamp shade, a mirror; a magnet board, or a magnetic appliance and wherein no modification of the substrate is needed to attach the decorative apparatus.

33. The method of claim 31 wherein the decorative element of a first decorative apparatus corresponds to a first holiday or first season and the decorative element of a second decorative apparatus corresponds to a second season or holiday, the method further comprising: removing the first decorative apparatus from the substrate at the end of the holiday or season; repeating the selectively positioning and attaching steps with the second decorative apparatus at the beginning of the second holiday or season to attach the second decorative apparatus to the same substrate to which the first decorative apparatus was attached.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The apparatus of the invention is further described and explained in relation to the following drawings wherein:

[0016] FIG. 1 is a bottom plan view of a prior art decoration attachment device;

[0017] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of one preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0018] FIG. 3 is bottom plan view of another preferred embodiment of an apparatus according to the invention;

[0019] FIG. 4 is a partial side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 3;

[0020] FIG. 5 is an exploded, partial side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 3;

[0021] FIG. 6 is a partial cross sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 5 when assembled;

[0022] FIG. 7A is a bottom plan view of another preferred embodiment of an apparatus according to the invention;

[0023] FIG. 7B is a partial bottom plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 7A having a rectangular base shape and including optional features;

[0024] FIG. 7C is a partial bottom plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 7A having a rectangular base shape including optional features;

[0025] FIG. 7D is a partial bottom plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 7A having a rectangular base shape including optional features;

[0026] FIG. 7E is a partial bottom plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 7A including optional features;

[0027] FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 7A.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, a bottom view of a prior art decoration attachment device is shown. The device includes a base 12 having a bottom surface 14 that would contact the forward facing (visible when in use) surface of the wreath base or other substrate to which the decoration is to be attached. The top surface (not shown) of base 12 would contact the bottom surfaces of the decorative floral elements 26. Decorative elements 26 are permanently attached to base 12 using adhesive. Recognizing that all forms of attachment are not permanent in the sense that items may be detached from each other if enough force is applied, as used herein references to permanent or permanently attached refer to attachments that are secure and not intended for removal or separation, such as attachment by gluing, sewing, or riveting. Attached between base 12 and decorative elements 26, or between two base layers 12, are 2-3 spaced apart wires 24, each wire 34 being the same type and color wire and permanently glued to base 12. The wires extend laterally across base 12 with the ends of the wires 24 extending sufficiently beyond the side edges 15, 17 of base 12 to provide enough length to wrap the wires around the wreath base and twist them together on the back side of the wreath base or other substrate. As a second base attachment mechanism, 203 spaced-apart alligator type clips 16 are permanently glued to a bottom surface of base 12 as a second base attachment mechanism. As both the wires and clips in this prior art decoration attachment device are glued to the base, neither are removable when not in use and both may be visible when attached to a wreath or other substrate. The base on this prior art device does not have pockets or any other mechanism for hiding the wires when not in use.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 2, a bottom view of a preferred embodiment of a universal wreath decoration apparatus 10 according to the invention is shown. Decoration apparatus 10 comprises a base 12 having a bottom surface 14 that would contact the forward facing (visible when in use) surface of the wreath base or other substrate to which the decoration is to be attached. The top surface (not shown) of base 12 would contact the bottom surfaces of the decorative elements 26, such as floral or foliage arrangements, monogram letters, characters, and/or figurines. Most preferably, decorative elements 26 are permanently attached to base 12 using adhesives, but other attachment mechanisms may also be used, such as sewing or rivets. It is preferred that decorative elements 26 be attached to the top surface of base 12 substantially along the perimeter of base 12 and at one or more locations laterally across base 12. One or more decorative elements 26 combine to form an overall decoration or decorative body having an outer perimeter that is preferably slightly larger than the perimeter of base 12. It is preferred that decorative elements completely cover the top surface of base 12 so that base 12 is not visible from the front of the decoration apparatus 10 when in use.

[0030] Base 12 is shown with rectangular shape, that would work well to cover part of a round, oval, square, or rectangular shaped wreath base, but would also work to cover part of any other shaped wreath (such as a heart or star). Other shapes for base 12, such as an arcuate shape may also be used to provide partial coverage of the wreath base. Multiple decoration apparatuses 10 may be used together (end to end, side to side, or any combination thereof) on a single wreath base to provide more coverage or full coverage of the base. Additionally, base 12 may be sized and shaped to provide full coverage of a wreath base (such as a circular, oval, square, rectangular, heart, or other shaped ring, referred to as a full ring), if desired, but this is somewhat limiting since the decorative apparatus 10 would be sized and shaped to fit only particular wreaths. Most wreaths come in standard shapes and sizes, so a full ring base 12 could still be used with different wreath bases (a 12 inch round grapevine wreath and a 12 inch round straw wreath, for example). However, it is most preferred for base 12 to have a partial shape to allow greater flexibility with interchangeability of location and orientation of decoration apparatus 10 on the wreath base and allow combinations of decoration apparatuses 10 (with each having the same decorative elements 26 or each having different, preferably coordinating, decorative elements 26) to be used to achieve different looks.

[0031] Attached to bottom surface 14 are a plurality of wire sets 25 spaced out along the length of base 12. Each wire set 25 contains at least two wires, 24a and 24b, but additional wires (e.g. a third wire, or third and fourth wires) may also be included in each set 25. Each wire set 25 is spaced out every 3-6 inches along the length of base 12 (or such other entirety of base 12, if base 12 is a full ring). If base 12 is a smaller shape, such as an arc or rectangle, that alone would only partially cover the desired wreath base, a wire 24 (or 124 as shown in FIG. 7A where wire sets 25 are not used) or a wire set 25 is preferably placed near each of the longitudinal ends 11 and 13 of base 12, with additional wires or wire sets being spaced out from the ends. In this preferred embodiment, wires 24a and 24b are preferably permanently attached to surface 14 using adhesives or by sewing. The wires extend laterally across base 12 with the ends of the wires 24a and 24b extending sufficiently beyond the side edges 15, 17 of base 12 to provide enough length to wrap the wires around the wreath base and twist them together on the back side of the wreath base or other substrate. Typically, the wires will extend around 4-8 inches from each side of base 12. According to one preferred embodiment, the wires extend the same distance from each side of the base (the wires being centered on the base). According to another preferred embodiment, the wires on one side of the base extend further than the wires on the other side of the base or the wires alternate in length, one wire being longer on the right side than the left side and the next wire being longer on the left side than the right side. The wires also provide a mechanism for attaching one decorative apparatus 10 to another decorative apparatus 10 to connect them together (particularly to connect them side to side) to form a larger overall decoration as desired. A wire 24 from one decoration apparatus 10 may connect to a wire 24 from another decoration apparatus 10.

[0032] Most preferably, in embodiments having wire sets 25, wires 24a have at least one characteristic that is different from wires 24b. The characteristic may be coloration, gauge (strength/thickness), and/or length extending from the sides of base 12. For example, wires 24a may be colored dark brown to coordinate with a grapevine wreath base and wires 24b may be colored light tan or a silver tone to coordinate with or not be very visible against a straw wreath base. Additional colors may also be used for each additional wire in a wire set 25. For example, a third wire could be dark green to coordinate with pine tree foliage on a Christmas wreath base or greenery on a boxwood wreath base. The use of different coloration adds to the flexibility of use for decorative apparatus 10 with substrates of different colors, as the user can select which colored wire is best suited for the particular wreath base or other substrate being used. The other wire(s) can be folded back along surface 14 when not in use. The colored wire 24 that is preferably selected for use in securing decorative apparatus 10 to a wreath base is the one that is camouflaged against the wreath base or substrate and not easily visible against the substrate when in use.

[0033] Wires 24a and 24b (and any additional wires in each wire set 25) may also have different strengths or thicknesses to accommodate the weight of decoration apparatus 10 (primarily determined by the weight of the particular decorative elements 26 used) in various end uses. A stronger or thicker wire may be needed to hold a heavy set of decorative elements 26 to a wreath hanging on a door, while a thinner wire of less strength may be need to attach the same set of decorative elements to a table basket because part of the weight of the decorative elements 26 is supported by the surface on which the basket is placed. Different wire lengths may also be provided to accommodate different sizes wreathes or other substrates. Any of the wires 24 that are not being used to attach decorative apparatus 10 to a substrate may be folded in and tucked behind base 12 so they are not readily visible from the front when in use. Any combination of coloration, thickness/strength, and length may be used for the wires in each set 25 and each set 25 need not have the same combination of wires. For example, a first set and third set of wires 25 may each have a green wire 24a and a brown wire 24b of the same thickness, while a second set and fourth set of wires 25 may each have a green wire 24c (not depicted) and brown wire 24d (not depicted) that are thicker than wires 24a and 24b. A fifth set and sixth set of wires 25 may each have a silver wire 24e (not depicted) that are the same thickness as 24a and 24b and a silver wire 24f (not depicted) that are the same thickness as 24c and 24d. Other combinations are also possible.

[0034] Although the wires 24 are generally not very noticeable when wrapped around the wreath base if the decorative elements 26 extend beyond the edges of base 12, the user may prefer to not use wires 24 to attach decoration apparatus 10 to wreath base for aesthetic purposes. Additionally, wires 24 may not be the most effective base attachment mechanisms for certain types of substrates. For example, wires 24 may be difficult to use to attach decoration apparatus 10 to a basket portion of a wreath base (such as a metal bucket type door hanger or an oval wreath that is open in the central portion at the top but has a basket portion at the bottom), since the wires 24 are likely not long enough to wrap all the way around the basket portion. If such a wreath is made of grapevine or a wire form, then the wires 24 may be wrapped through the vines or wire form to attach decoration apparatus 10 to the basket portion, but that may be difficult for some users to manipulate. Accordingly, it is preferred to provide at least two different mechanisms, such as wires 24 and clips 16 described below, to selectively attach decoration apparatus 10 to wreath base to facilitate ease of use and to provide different aesthetic options.

[0035] To provide a secondary base attachment mechanism for decoration apparatus 10, a plurality of clips 16 are also attached to bottom surface 14. Clips 16 are most preferably alligator type clips comprising an actuator 20 (usually hinged or spring actuated) with an elongated upper arm 18 and an elongated lower arm (shown as 122 in FIG. 3) forming a mouth to grasp part of the wreath. Either or both upper arm 18 or lower arm (such as 122) preferably have teeth to aid in gripping part of the wreath. Clips 16 are preferably permanently attached to surface 14 by gluing or sewing either the upper arm 18 or lower arm to surface 14. Most preferably, the lower arm is adhered to surface 14, which makes it slightly easier to maneuver actuator 20 than if upper arm 18 is adhered to surface 14. Clips 16 are preferably spaced out every 3-6 inches along the length of base 12 (or such other entirety of base 12, if base 12 is a full ring). Clips 16 preferably alternate orientations with respect to opening direction, with one clip 16a opening toward side 15 and the next clip 16b opening toward side 17, etc. The orientation of any individual clip is not critical, for example 16a could open toward side 17 with clip 16b opening toward side 15. Additionally, two adjacent clips could open toward side 17 and the next clip or pair of adjacent clips could open toward side 15. A clip 16 is most preferably located adjacent each wire 24. Clips 16 are particularly useful in attaching decoration apparatus 10 to a grapevine or wire form wreath base or a wreath base having a basket portion as described above, by inserting upper arm 18 through the vines or wire form to clip decorative apparatus 10 to the wreath base, without having to maneuver wires 24 through the wreath base. Clips may also be used to attach decorative apparatus 10 to the edge of a ribbon on a ribbon-wrapped wreath, to a piece of wire wrapped on the wreath base as part of its standard structure (such as on a straw wreath), or to greenery that is permanently attached to the wreath base (such as a Christmas pine tree wreath or a boxwood wreath), such as floral or foliage arrangements, monogram letters, characters, and/or figurines.

[0036] Because of the non-uniform nature of some wreaths, particularly grapevine wreaths, each clip 16 may not be well positioned to grasp part of the wreath base. The alternating nature of the clips 16a, 16b, 16c, etc. aids in ensuring that more than one clip will be able to grasp onto part of the wreath base. It is not required that every clip 16 be used to grasp part of the wreath base in order to securely attach decorative apparatus 10 to the wreath base. When clips 16 are used to secure decorative apparatus 10 to the wreath base, wires 24 may be folded inward onto surface 14 of base 12 to tuck them in behind base 12 and hide them from sight when the wreath is in use. Alternatively, clips 16 and wires 24 may be used in conjunction to provide additional security in the attachment of decorative apparatus 10 to the wreath base. Using both base attachment mechanisms may be particularly useful if the wreath will be used outdoors in unprotected windy conditions.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 3-6, another preferred embodiment of a universal wreath decoration apparatus 110 according to the invention is shown. Apparatus 110 comprises a base 112 that is similar to base 12 in FIGS. 1-2, except that in this embodiment, base 112 has an arcuate shape and each set of wires 125 is attached to the upper surface 130 of base 112, rather than the lower surface 114. Each set of wires is disposed between upper surface 130 and the bottom of decorative elements 126. Wire sets 125, and wires 124a, 124b, etc., may have the same variations and configurations as described for wire sets 25 and wires 24a, 24b, etc. to allow selective use of a particular wire or combination of wires to secure decoration apparatus 110 to a wreath base or other substrate. Base 112 also comprises a plurality of wire slots 138, preferably one wire slot 138 for each set of wires 125 and located adjacent to each set of wires 125. Wire slot 138 may be located on either side of a wire set 125 as shown in FIG. 3 (as shown in the drawings, towards the top of the page or towards the bottom of the page relative to a wire set). Wire slot 138 is formed by not attaching decorative elements 126 to upper surface 130. Preferably, the various pieces that make up decorative elements 126 are still adhered to each other in the area over each wire slot 138 to provide structural integrity to the decoration apparatus. Wire slots 138 allow any wires, such as 24a or 24b or both, that are not being used to secure decoration apparatus 110 to a wreath base or other substrate to be tucked into wire slot 138. This allows the unused wires to be hidden from sight from the rear of the wreath or other substrate when is use. Since a portion of surface 114 may be visible from the rear side of the wreath or other substrate when in use, particularly for a wreath hung on a glass door or a basket substrate that is visible from multiple sides, it may be desirable to hide unused wires 124 rather than merely folding them back against surface 114. Wire slots 138 allow unused wires 124 to be hidden between surface 130 and decorative elements 126, so they are not visible from the rear.

[0038] According to another preferred embodiment, wires 124 or wire sets 125 may be removable from base 112 and 132. If not permanently attached to base 112 or 132, wires 124 or a selected wire from a wire set 125 may be inserted through any desired wire slot 138, with a portion of the wire extending laterally beyond the sides of the base, to act as a base attachment mechanism for securing apparatus 110 to a substrate.

[0039] Base 112 also preferably comprises a plurality of clip slots 128, each of which is configured to allow either an upper arm 118 or a lower arm 122 of a clip 116 to pass through the clip slot. Most preferably, lower arm 122 pass through the clip slot 128 and is permanently attached to upper surface 130 of base 112 (and optionally to a bottom surface of decorative elements 126), leaving upper arm 118 free to be opened and closed to provide a secondary mechanism for attaching decoration apparatus 110 to a wreath base or other substrate (as shown in FIG. 4). This disposes lower arm 122 between base 112 and decorative elements 126 to provide additional security and to protect the attachment of clip 116 to base 112. This protection aids in preventing clip 116 from becoming inadvertently detached from base 112 due to wear on the glue or stitches or the like through repeated uses. Clip slots 128 are preferably positioned on alternating sides of base 112 to allow variation in the opening orientation of clips 116, as previously discussed with respect to clips 16. Any configuration of alternating pattern for slits 128 may be used.

[0040] In another preferred embodiment, decoration apparatus 110 may optionally comprise a base having two layers, a bottom layer 112 (closest to the wreath base when in use) and an upper layer 132 (closest to decorative elements 126), as shown in FIGS. 4-6. Bottom layer 112 has a bottom surface 114 that would contact the forward facing (visible when in use) surface of the wreath base or other substrate to which the decoration is to be attached and an upper surface 130. Upper layer 132 has an upper surface 136 that contacts the decorative elements 126 and a bottom surface 134. At least a portion of bottom surface 134 is preferably permanently attached to upper surface 130, by gluing, sewing, or riveting. Most preferably, these surfaces are attached along the majority of their perimeters, except for certain portions as discussed below, and attached laterally between sides 115 and 117 in at least one area disposed in a central portion of base 112 between locations for wire sets 125 and clips 116. Layer 132 is preferably substantially the same shape and size as layer 112 and they are preferably made of the same material.

[0041] In a two layer embodiment, an arm portion of each clip 116 disposed through each clip slot 128 is preferably permanently attached to either upper surface 130 or lower surface 134 (or both). Clip slots 128 may also be used in a single layer base embodiment, with an arm portion of each clip 116 disposed through a clip slot and attached to the upper surface of the base, the bottom surface of the decorative elements, or both. Also permanently attached to either upper surface 130 or lower surface 134 (or both) in a two layer embodiment, are a plurality of wire sets 125 spaced out along the length of base 112, as previously described. Each wire slot 138 is formed by a gap in the attachment of upper layer 132 and lower layer 112, as shown in FIG. 6. The gap shown in FIG. 6 is exaggerated for illustration purposes. In normal use, layers 112 and 132 would contact each other in the area of each wire slot 138, but would not be adhered or attached together in the area of each wire slot 138. In the two layer embodiment, it is preferred that upper layer 132 and bottom layer 112 be attached together substantially along their perimeters, excluding the area of each wire slot 138 to allow an opening for the unused wires 124 in each wire set 125 to be tucked into the wire slot 138 adjacent to the set. Additionally, it is preferred the perimeter attachment between layers 132 and 112 be set back slightly from the outer perimeter edge. This allows additional room for any unused wires to rest between the layers in the longitudinal area between where the wires 124 are laterally attached to layer 112 and/or layer 132 and the entrance to the adjacent wire slot 138, further hiding the unused wires from sight when decoration apparatus 110 is in use. In another preferred embodiment, wire slots are not used, but the unused wires may still be tucked away from sight in the layer attachment set-back area between the upper and lower base layers near the perimeter edge. Attachment clips 116 may also optionally be removable from decoration apparatus 110, as they are shown separately in FIG. 3 and as further described below with respect to clips 216 in apparatus 210.

[0042] According to another preferred embodiment, base layer 132 may comprises a plurality of slots (not shown) through which a portion of decorative elements 126 may be inserted, such as a stem on a floral element. Having a portion of a decorative element 126 between base layers 132 and 112, preferably secured with an adhesive, aids in structural stability and ensuring that decorative elements 126 do not become dislodged from the base, which may happen if they are only attached to an upper surface 136 of base layer 132.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 7A, another preferred embodiment of decorative apparatus 210 is depicted. Decorative apparatus 210 preferably comprises a base 212, a plurality of wires 224 (or wire sets, similar to 25, 125), a plurality of clip slots 228 through each of which an arm of a clip 216 is insertable. Most preferable, clips 216 are removable, but an arm of each clip 216 may be permanently attached to bottom surface 214 (in which case, slits 228 are not needed) or to an upper surface of base 112 (similar to upper surface 130). Decorative apparatus 210 preferably comprises a two layer base, similar to apparatus 110, but may also have only a single base layer. The wire, clip, and clip slot configurations for apparatus 210 are essentially the same as with apparatus 10 or 110, with apparatus 210 preferably comprising a plurality of clip pockets 239 or 249, each accommodating insertion of an arm of a removable clip 216.

[0044] With a removable clip embodiment, each clip 116 may be selectively inserted into a clip slot 228 when needed as either the only base attachment mechanism used or as a secondary/additional base attachment mechanism, and removed from base 212 when not needed. Having removable clips 216 aids in reducing the bulkiness of decoration apparatus 210 compared to an embodiment where clips are permanently attached to base 212. It also aids in the aesthetics of decorative apparatus 210 when clips 216 are not needed for attachment, since a portion of clips 216 may be visible from the rear or side when in use on a wreath base or other substrate. Removability also adds to the flexibility of use of clips 216, since only as many clips 216 as are needed to secure decoration apparatus 210 to a wreath base or other substrate may be used and only in the particular clip slot 228 locations that are best suited for the particular wreath base/substrate (which may require some trial and error placement by the user to determine the best clip slot 228 locations to grasp portions of the substrate). The removable clip embodiment is most preferably used with a two layer base structure (similar to layers 112, 132), but may also be used with a single base layer (such as base 12). In either of those embodiments, there must be an unobstructed area between the base 12 and decorative elements 26 in a single layer embodiment or between the base layers 112, 132 in a two layer embodiment, where there are no wires or glue/stitches/rivets, etc. that would impede or obstruct insertion of a clip arm.

[0045] Most preferably, this unobstructed area is a clip pocket 239 (as shown in dashed lines on FIG. 7D) shaped to receive a clip arm and sized slightly larger than a clip arm (118 or 122). The entry to each pocket 239 is formed by a clip slot 228. Each clip pocket 239a, 239b, etc. is preferably oriented in opposing fashion and clip pockets are located along both sides of base 212 in an offset pattern, but other configurations may also be used, as previously described with the orientation and placement of clips 16 and 116. Preferably, each clip pocket 239 is disposed at an angle (.sub.a, .sub.b, etc.) between about 120 and 240 and more preferably between about 130 and 235 . Most preferably angle is between about 220 to 230 or between about 130 and 140 , with at least one clip pocket 239 (e.g. 239a) having an angle (e.g. .sub.a) in the higher range and at least one other clip pocket 239 (e.g. 239b), preferably oriented in an opposite direction, having an angle (e.g. .sub.b) in the lower range. When base 212 is square or rectangular (as shown as an alternate configuration in FIG. 7D), the angle a is measured from an axis 242 perpendicular to the edge of the base 212 around to a center line of pocket 239, as shown in FIG. 7D. When base 212 is arcuate (as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7E), axis 242 is perpendicular to a line 212 that is tangential to the curve of base 212 (or a line parallel to a tangential line) and the angle a is measured the same way as shown on FIG. 7D. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, angle a.sub.b may also be measured from axis 242 in the same direction and from the same side as angle .sub.a, in which case the angle range for .sub.b (and other angles for clips oriented to open toward the left side of base (toward side 217, the left side when viewed from front during use) will be between about 60 and 60, more preferably between 45 and 45, and most preferably between about 40 to 50 or 40 to 50.

[0046] According to another preferred embodiment, each clip pocket 249 is an arcuate pocket substantially wider than clip arm (as shown in dashed lines on FIGS. 7B and 7C). The entry to each pocket 249 is formed by a clip clot 228. The outer edges 250, 251 of each clip pocket 249 provide a range of angles for insertion of clip arm (118 or 122), so the user can selectively position each clip 216 in each clip pocket 249 at any angle within the range of angles formed by outer edges 250 and 251. This allows greater flexibility in placing clip 116a into pocket 249a at any angle within the range of angles .sub.a and placing clip 116b into pocket 249b at any angle within the range of angles .sub.b. The angle of placement for clip 116a may be the same as the angle of placement for clip 116b (and for clips 116c, 116d, etc.) or any one or more clips may be placed at an angle above axis 242 and any one or more other clips at an angle below axis 242, or all clips above or all clips below axis 242. Most preferably the range of angles (.sub.a, .sub.b, etc.) is between about 120 and 240 and more preferably between about 135 and 245 and most preferably between 140 and 220. The angle range is measured from an axis 242 (same perpendicular axis previously described) around to outer edge 250 and to outer edge 251 of each pocket 249, as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C. The use of arcuate pockets 249 provides greater flexibility in the selective placement of clips 216 in order to better grasp a portion of the wreath base or other substrate. However, the wider configuration of arcuate pockets 249 may allow for slippage of a clip 216 along base 212. The arm of clip 216 disposed to contact surface 214 (arm 218 as shown in FIG. 7A) preferably has teeth to aid in reducing such slippage.

[0047] Each clip pocket 239 or arcuate pocket 249 is preferably slightly longer than the length of the arm of the clip 216 that is to be inserted into the pocket. As an additional alternative, decoration apparatus 210 may comprise one or more clip pockets 239 and one or more arcuate pockets 249.

[0048] Decoration apparatus 210 also preferably comprises at least two magnets or magnetic strips 240 disposed on surface 214 near ends 211 and 213 or near sides 215 and 217. Most preferably, apparatus 210 comprises multiple magnets or magnetic strips 240 disposed on surface 214 at various points around the perimeter of base 212. Magnets 240 may also be disposed on a top surface of base 212, between the base and decorative elements or between base layers in a two layer embodiment. Magnets 240 provide a third base attachment mechanism for decoration apparatus 210, that is particularly useful for attaching apparatus 210 to metal substrates, such as a decorative bucket or a metal door. Magnets may also allow decoration apparatus 210 (or multiple decoration apparatuses 210 combined together) to act as a decoration or even a full ring wreath for a metal door without requiring an actual wreath base, in which case the metal door acts as the substrate to which decoration apparatus 210 is attached. For metal doors having a secondary door (screen or storm door) with limited space between the metal door and the secondary door, it may be beneficial to allow use of decoration apparatus as a wreath without requiring a grapevine, straw, or other wreath base. Decoration apparatus 210 may also comprise at least two suction cups, spaced out along base 212, in addition to or instead of magnetic strips 240. Suction cups allow decoration apparatus 210 to be attached to a glass door substrate, mirror substrate, or other smooth surface substrate, without requiring a separate wreath base. This may also be beneficial when the glass door has a secondary door (screen or storm door) with limited space between the glass door and the secondary door.

[0049] Decoration apparatus 210 also preferably comprises at least two locations 244 for insertion of a straight pin. A straight pin is particularly useful for attachment to straw wreath or foam wreath bases or other penetrable substrates, such as a bulletin board or memory board. Straight pins are preferably separate and removable from apparatus 210. They are preferably inserted from the front side (visible side) of the decorative elements 226 through the base 212 and into the wreath base or substrate, such that the head of the pin is tucked in behind a decorative element 226 and not readily visible when decoration apparatus 210 is in use. Pin locations 244 are most preferably marked spots on surface 214 or on the decorative elements 226 (preferably behind a leaf, petal or other movable portion of the decoration so that the marked spot is not visible in regular use after apparatus 210 is attached to its substrate). Preferably at least one pin location 244 is disposed near end 213 and another disposed near end 211. Most preferably there are several pin locations/marked spots 244 positioned at various points on surface 214 around the perimeter of base 212. Marked spots 244 may be outlined or colored differently than the other portions of surface 214 or decorative elements 226. Alternatively, decoration apparatus may include a separate diagram indicating where on base 212 pin insertion locations 244 are located without actually requiring any physical markings on surface 214 or decorative elements 226. The marked spots 244 indicate an unobstructed or minimally obstructed area 245 and/or 246 as shown on FIG. 8, where it is easier to insert a straight pin through decorative elements 226 and through base 212 (and upper layer 232, if used), to provide a fourth mechanism for attaching decoration apparatus 210 to a wreath base or other substrate. Most preferably, the area for each pin location 244 is an unobstructed area where there is no other attachment mechanism (either a base attachment mechanism or a decoration attachment mechanism as discussed below) that would obstruct insertion of a pin and where there is no glue or stitching between decorative elements and base (or upper base layer) and between base layers that would make insertion of a pin difficult. A pocket 246 may be formed between decorative elements 226 and upper surface 236 of an upper base layer and another pocket 245 formed between lower surface 234 of an upper base layer and upper surface 230 of a lower base layer, as shown as exaggerated openings in FIG. 8. There is no attachment between the layers in the area of pockets 245/246. Similar pockets may be used with a single base layer embodiment.

[0050] Alternatively, pin location 244 may be a minimally obstructed area where there is no other attachment mechanism that would obstruct insertion of a pin and where there is a minimal amount of glue or stiches between the layers. Most preferably, in a minimally obstructed embodiment, there is either a pocket 245 or a pocket 246, so that glue or stitching is only between either the decorative elements and upper base layer or between the upper and lower base layers, but not both so that a straight pin may be inserted without much difficulty.

[0051] When any pocket or slot (such as 246 or 138) is formed between the base (or an upper base layer) and the decorative elements 26, 126, or 226, it is preferred that the decorative elements still be adhered to each other in the area directly above the pocket or slot to provide structural integrity and to hide the upper surface of either base layer 12, 112, 212 or layer 132, 232, but it is not required that the ornamental elements be attached together in that area, as long as they are sufficiently attached together in the surrounding areas that they will not inadvertently fall off of the decorative apparatus.

[0052] Base 12, 112, or 212, and upper layer 132 or 232, are preferably made of fabric, such as felt, burlap, or twill, that is flexible but strong. Other types of fabrics may also be used. A fabric base layer allows for easier penetration by a straight pin, if that is the desired base attachment mechanism. A fabric base layer also allows some flexibility in being able to form the decorative apparatus to the wreath base or other substrate, such as by partially wrapping around the sides or otherwise bending to correspond to the shape of the substrate. A fabric base layer also allows decoration apparatus 10, 110, or 210 to be folded over on itself (such as base layer facing base layer, with the decorative or ornamental elements facing outward) for storage. With traditional decorative wreaths having the decorations permanently attached, they are typically stored by stacking them together (either with or without boxes). This takes up considerable room and the space in the center of the wreath stack is generally unused and wasted. With separate wreath bases and decoration apparatuses according to the invention, storage space is minimized both because fewer wreath bases need to be stored and the decoration apparatuses can be folded and stacked together using the usually wasted space in the center of the wreath bases.

[0053] As an alternative to fabric base layers, plastic, metal or wood may also be used for base 12, 112, 212, 132, and/or 232. These alternative base materials provide greater strength and stability, which may be useful for particularly heavy ornamental elements. For any material that is not easily penetrable by a straight pin (e.g. thicker plastic, wood, or metal), base layers preferably comprise a hole in the area of pockets 245 to allow insertion of a straight pin through the decoration apparatus, if desired. It is most preferred that the base materials for two layer bases 112, 132 or 212, 232, be the same for each layer, but different material may also be used for each layer.

[0054] Base layers are preferably colored to blend with the main coloration of the ornamental elements, so that if any portion of the base materials is visible during use it will blend with the ornamental elements and not stand out. Alternatively, the base layers may be colored to blend with the main coloration of an intended wreath base or other substrate. For example, a decoration apparatus having Christmas themed ornamental elements may have a dark green colored base (regardless of the colors used for the ornamental elements) to blend with a pine greenery wreath base. Any decoration apparatus according to the invention may also include a separate piece of decorative ribbon or fabric strip designed to be temporarily wrapped around the wreath base or a handle portion of a basket substrate, etc. The ribbon or fabric may be held in place on the wreath base or substrate by overlapping the ends with the decoration apparatus and attaching the decoration apparatus to the wreath base or substrate using any one of or combination of base attachment mechanisms described herein. When a decorative wrapping ribbon or fabric is included, it is preferred that the base layer of decorative apparatus 10, 110, 210 be made from the same material to further aid in camouflaging the base layer.

[0055] According to another preferred embodiment, decorative elements (such as elements 26, 126, or 226) are removable from a base (such as base 12, 112, or 212) to which two or more base attachment mechanisms are connected or connectable. In this embodiment, the decorative elements are preferably attached together, such as by sewing or using adhesives, and contain at least one decoration attachment mechanism, and preferably at least two decoration attachment mechanisms, disposed on a rear facing side of the decorative elements. The decoration attachment mechanism is preferably hook and loop tape or snaps that engage with a corresponding side of hook and loop tape or snaps disposed on a front facing side of the base to allow the decorative elements to be removed from the base. This embodiment allows a single base to be reused with different decorations, saving on the costs associated with the base attachment mechanisms (the mechanisms that attach the base to a substrate, such as wires 24, clips 16, magnets 240, and the like). A first decoration attachment mechanism is preferably disposed at least near an upper end of the decorative elements and a second attachment mechanism is preferably disposed near a lower end of the decorative elements with corresponding placement on of the mating attachment mechanisms the base. Other locations, including a centrally disposed location, around the perimeter, or along the sides, may also be used for the decoration attachment mechanisms. The decorative elements may also have a foundation to which the decorative elements are attached on a front or top surface with the decoration attachment mechanism attached to a rear or bottom surface. The base to which the removable decoration elements are attached may include any of the base attachment mechanisms and configurations and may be a two layer base, as previously described with other preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0056] The preferred features and optional components of any decoration apparatus, such as embodiments 10, 110 and 210, described herein, such as marked spots 244, arcuate pocket 249, clip pocket 239, two base layer configurations 112, 132, removable clips 216, materials for manufacture, sizes and shapes of bases 12, 112, 212, etc. may be used with any of the embodiments (e.g. 10, 110, or 210) even if not specifically described herein with that particular embodiment.

[0057] Although the decoration apparatuses according to the invention may come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and material, and include multiple different attachment mechanisms, the decoration apparatuses are fairly universal for use with all types and sizes of wreath bases and other substrates and do not require the use of specially designed wreath base or any modification to a standard wreath base or other standard substrate. Although primarily described herein for use with standard wreath bases (such as foam, grapevine, cork, wire, branch (e.g. pine branches), and sunburst wreathes), decoration apparatuses according to the invention may also be used with and attached to other types of substrates, including pinning, clipping or wiring to woven baskets, handles of baskets or buckets, bulletin boards, memory boards, lamp shades, vases, or mirrors; pinning, clipping, wiring, or magnetically attaching to magnet boards and metal buckets; magnetically attaching to magnetic appliances (such as refrigerators) and metal doors. The decoration apparatuses according to the invention are reusable on different substrates and allow for easily changing the type of decoration used to fit the holiday or season. The decoration apparatuses according to the invention include various components, configurations, and orientations that allow for multiple attachment mechanisms designed to be suitable with a wide variety of substrates. Preferably at least one attachment mechanism is configured to allow the decoration apparatus to be attached to at least two different types of substrates and most preferably at least two attachment mechanisms are each configured to allow the decoration apparatus to be attached to two different substrates, to provide greater flexibility in the types of substrates that may be used. For example, wires may be used to attach the decoration apparatus to the handle of a basket, to a grapevine wreath, and a foam wreath. Clips may be also used to attach the decoration apparatus to the handle of a basket and the grapevine wreath, but would not be very useful for attachment to most foam wreaths. Clips may also be used to attach the decoration apparatus to a vase or lamp shade. Straight pins may be used to attach the decoration apparatus to a foam wreath, lamp shade, or bulletin board, but would not be very useful for attachment to most grapevine wreathes.

[0058] Directional references to front, top, upper, rear, bottom, lower, right, and left herein generally refer to the viewing direction when the decoration apparatus is in use, with the ornamental elements being disposed in the front or top and the base layer, wires, and clips being disposed toward the rear or bottom nearest the substrate. Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate upon reading this specification and the description of preferred embodiments herein that modifications and alterations to the apparatus may be made within the scope of the invention and it is intended that the scope of the invention disclosed herein be limited only by the broadest interpretation of the appended claims to which the inventors are legally entitled.