REUSABLE MAILER BAG TO NECK PILLOW

Abstract

A reusable mailer includes an outer peripheral surface defining a carrying volume, the outer peripheral surface of the carrying volume made from a first material and an inner peripheral surface covered by a second material. The carrying volume is configured to: receive an item therein; close about the item for mailing purposes; selectively invert to expose the second material on the outer peripheral surface; and define a new interior carrying volume therein. A central bottom portion of the new interior carrying volume is selectively manipulated to re-form the new interior carrying volume to a U-shaped configuration. A locking mechanism is disposed on either the mailer and is configured to selectively lock the new interior carrying volume in the U-shaped configuration to form a neck pillow.

Claims

1. A method of reusing a mailer, comprising: inserting an item into a carrying volume of a mailer, the carrying volume defined by an outer peripheral surface made from a first material and an inner peripheral surface at least partially covered by a second material; closing the carrying volume to configure the mailer for forwarding purposes; forwarding the mailer to a recipient; opening the carrying volume to expose and remove the item within the carrying volume; selectively inverting the carrying volume to expose the second material on the outer peripheral surface of the mailer forming a new interior carrying volume defined by the outer peripheral surface; selectively manipulating a central bottom portion of the new interior carrying volume to form a U-shaped configuration; selectively locking the mailer in the U-shaped configuration to form a neck pillow; and closing the new interior carrying volume.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein selectively manipulating a central bottom portion of the new interior carrying volume includes anchoring a pull string to the central bottom portion and pulling the pull string relative to thereto.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the pull string is configured to engage a grommet defined through the mailer.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the pull string includes a locking tab that cooperates with the grommet to selectively lock the pull string relative thereto.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the selectively manipulating includes re-forming the carrying volume into the U-Shaped configuration and filling the interior carrying volume with a fillable material to form the U-shaped neck pillow.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second material is a plush material.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the plush material is made from at least one of felt, fleece, cotton, polyester, acrylic, flannel, faux suede, faux fur, minky, wool, sherpa and rubber.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the outer peripheral surface is made from at least one of propylene, polypropylene, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein the material of the outer peripheral surface is non-woven, woven, or of a high-density fiberous type.

10. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: manipulating the carrying volume to transition the mailer from the U-shaped neck pillow to a second, different useable object.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the second, different useable object includes: a backpack, a jacket, a hoodie, a bag, a tote, a carry-on, a pillow, a blanket, or a towel.

12. The method according to claim 6, wherein the plush material is made from a material that is configured to at least one of insulate, waterproof, or protect the item disposed within the carrying volume during mailing.

13. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: closing the carrying volume after inversion using a closing mechanism, the closing mechanism selected from the group consisting of zippers, press-locks, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, interlocking tabs, magnetic locking devices, and additional pieces of protective tape.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the closing mechanism is configured to close a top opening of the new interior carrying volume such that the reusable mailer is watertight and leakproof.

15. A reusable mailer, comprising: an outer peripheral surface defining a carrying volume, the outer peripheral surface of the carrying volume made from a first material and an inner peripheral surface at least partially covered by a second material, the carrying volume configured to: receive an item therein; close about the item for mailing purposes; and selectively invert to expose the second material on the outer peripheral surface of the mailer and define a new interior carrying volume therein, wherein a central bottom portion of the new interior carrying volume is configured to be selectively manipulated to re-form the new interior carrying volume to a U-shaped configuration; and a locking mechanism disposed on either the outer peripheral surface or the inner peripheral surface, the locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the new interior carrying volume in the U-shaped configuration to form a neck pillow.

16. The reusable mailer according to claim 15, wherein the central bottom portion of the new interior carrying volume includes an anchor which cooperates with a pull string to selectively manipulate the central bottom portion to the U-shaped configuration.

17. The reusable mailer according to claim 16, wherein the pull string is configured to selectively engage a grommet defined though the carrying volume.

18. The reusable mailer according to claim 17, wherein the pull string includes a locking tab that cooperates with the grommet to selectively lock the pull string relative to thereto.

19. The reusable mailer according to claim 15, wherein the second material is a plush material made from at least one of felt, fleece, cotton, polyester, acrylic, flannel, faux suede, faux fur, minky, wool, sherpa and rubber.

20. The reusable mailer according to claim 15, wherein the outer peripheral surface is made from at least one of propylene, polypropylene, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0117] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0118] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a reusable mailer bag provided in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0119] FIG. 2 is a top view of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 1, illustrating the closure mechanism and the carrying volume;

[0120] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 1, illustrating the flap extended over the opening and secured to the front panel;

[0121] FIG. 4 is a side view of the front panel of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 1;

[0122] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the area of detail depicted in the FIG. 1;

[0123] FIG. 6 is a side cross-section view of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 1;

[0124] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 2, illustrating partial removal of tape layers and tear strips of the reusable mailer bag;

[0125] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another reusable mailer bag provided in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0126] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 8, illustrating a flap extended over an opening of the bag and a side extension secured to a rear panel;

[0127] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 8;

[0128] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another reusable mailer bag provided in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0129] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 11, illustrating a flap extended over an opening of the bag and a side extension secured to a side panel;

[0130] FIGS. 13A-13F show a flow diagram of one envisioned method of assembling a product within the reusable mailer bag with a gift card;

[0131] FIGS. 14A-14C show a flow diagram of another envisioned method of receiving and opening the mailer bag and method of reusing the reusable mailer bag;

[0132] FIGS. 15A-15I show a flow diagram of one envisioned method of assembling a product within the reusable mailer bag with a gift card, receiving and opening the mailer bag and removing a mailing strip, and a method of reusing the reusable mailer bag;

[0133] FIGS. 16A-16C show various views of another embodiment of the reusable mailer bag shaped in the form of a lunch box having an internal insulating liner and a zipper;

[0134] FIGS. 17A-17D show various views of another embodiment of the reusable mailer bag shaped in the form of a conventional lunch bag or wine pouch having an internal insulating liner and zipper;

[0135] FIGS. 18A-18C show various views of another embodiment of the reusable mailer bag shaped in the form of a backpack having on or more storage compartments;

[0136] FIGS. 19A-19B show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with removeable components that may be sold separately enabling the mailer bag to be reused for mailing purposes;

[0137] FIG. 20 shows another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with carrying volumes that invert to form a variety of differently-shaped and sized objects including toys, pillows, stockings, purses, pouches, handbags, holiday-themed pillows, sports-themed pillows, the reusable mailer bag including an insertable filler disposed within the carrying volume that may be used to fill the object once inverted;

[0138] FIGS. 21A-21B show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with carrying volumes that form a Christmas or Holiday stocking;

[0139] FIGS. 22A-22F shows another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with carrying volumes that form various plush objects;

[0140] FIG. 23 shows another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a plush hand puppet;

[0141] FIG. 24 shows the embodiment of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 23 in a mailing configuration and prior to mailing;

[0142] FIG. 25 shows the embodiment of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 24 with a variety of different hand puppet configurations;

[0143] FIGS. 26A and 26B show another embodiment of the reusable mailer bag of FIG. 24 with carrying volumes that invert to form additional plush hand puppets and matching finger puppets (included inside the carrying volume);

[0144] FIGS. 27A-27D show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a craft bag with a writing surface wherein the writing surface can be disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the carrying volume and/or the outer surface peripheral of the reusable bag;

[0145] FIG. 28 shows another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a tote bag/purse/lunch bag, etc. with a writing surface on the outer surface thereof;

[0146] FIGS. 29 and 30 show additional embodiments of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a backpack with a writing or craft surface on the outer surface thereof;

[0147] FIGS. 31A-32B show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a beach bag which may be waterproof, leak proof, floatable etc., and may be used as a safety floatation device in an emergency;

[0148] FIGS. 33A-33D show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a plush themed bag or purse with handle;

[0149] FIGS. 33E-33H show the steps for expanding a reusable mailer bag that is received in a vacuum-packed configuration;

[0150] FIGS. 34A-34C show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form headwear, e.g., a hat or head piece;

[0151] FIGS. 35A-35E show another embodiment of a reusable mailer container that can be used as a jewelry bag or jewelry case, the case comes with a stiffening material or stiffner which is inserted within the carrying volume to solidify the container for use;

[0152] FIGS. 36A-36E show another embodiment of a reusable mailer container that can be used as a thermos, the thermos may come as a hard shell or come with a stiffening material or stiffner which is inserted within the carrying volume to solidify the container for use;

[0153] FIGS. 37A-37B show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a diaper bag which may be waterproof and cleanable;

[0154] FIGS. 38A-38B show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form an evening purse with an elegant chain-like handle;

[0155] FIGS. 39A-39D show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag with a carrying volume that inverts to form a clothing garment such as a shirt, hoodie, sweatshirt, beachwear, sun dress, bathing suit, sarong, robe, etc.

[0156] FIGS. 40-46 show another embodiment show another embodiment of a reusable mailer wherein the mailer can be converted from a mailer to a jacket to a backpack and vice versa;

[0157] FIGS. 47A-47AB show various envisioned embodiments of the mailer which can be converted into a variety of different objects and, in some instances, secondary objects; and

[0158] FIGS. 48A-48C show another envisioned embodiment of the mailer which can be converted into a neck pillow from either the mailer configuration or the inverted configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0159] Referring now to FIG. 1, a mailer bag 10 is provided in accordance with the present disclosure. The mailer bag 10 includes a front panel 12, a rear panel 14, a first side panel 16, a second side panel 18, and a bottom panel 20 (FIG. 6). The panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 are joined together by stitching, gussets, or other similar methods of joining to form a carrying volume 22. An opening 24 opposite the bottom panel 20 provides access to the carrying volume 22. As shown in FIG. 2, carrying volume 22 includes a closure mechanism 25, for example, a zipper, snaps, or other similar forms of closure, adjacent opening 24 that is configured to selectively close opening 24.

[0160] Panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 may be formed from a fabric material. For example, panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 may be formed of polypropylene, 120-180 GSM, or other similar materials. The fabric material may be woven or non-woven. The panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 may include various graphical art designs including four color art designs and may include sublimation imprints. The graphical art designs may include advertising. The outer surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 may also be laminated to provide resistance to weather elements such as, for example, water. In an embodiment, the outer surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 may be formed of or may be laminated with a material that is resistant to common adhesives such as those commonly used with shipping labels. Accordingly, in some embodiments, common adhesives may not be sufficient to secure a shipping label or other materials to the outer surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20. In this instance a user would adhere the shipping label 32 and flap 36 to the respective tape layers 30 and 34 as described in more detail below.

[0161] As shown in FIG. 1, the interior surface 26 of carrying volume 22, i.e., the interior surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20, may include a plastic bubble lined protection layer 28 for protecting items transported in the carrying volume 22. The protection layer 28 may be removable and may include, for example, perforations, removable adhesive, or other similar features that allow for separation of the protection layer 28 from the interior surface 26 of carrying volume 22.

[0162] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a first tape layer 30 is adhered to front panel 12 and provides an adhesive friendly surface for receiving a shipping label 32. First tape layer 30 may be transparent and may be formed of a plastic material. First tape layer 30 may include an adhesive backing. In an embodiment, the adhesive backing may include an adhesive such as, for example, adhesives sold by 3M Company, that are suitable for adhering to the outer surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20. In this instance, the particular adhesive of the first tape layer 30 adheres to the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and/or 20 even if the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, or 20 are made from a material or are coated with a laminate that generally resists common adhesives. Hence, only designated tapes 30, 34 may be adherable (or adherable in a substantially secure manner) to the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 at specified locations.

[0163] Shipping label 32 and/or first tape layer 30 may be removable by an end user to reveal a hidden surface 33, as shown, for example, in FIG. 7. For example, in an embodiment, hidden surface 33 may include a promotional code that may be redeemable by the end user online or in a brick-and-mortar store. In an alternative embodiment, hidden surface 33 may include advertising. In yet another alternative embodiment, hidden surface 33 may include a writable surface on which the end user may take notes. Mailer bag 10 may also include a writing instrument (not shown), such as, for example, an erasable or non-permanent marker, within carrying volume 22 for use by an end user to write on the writable surface.

[0164] With continued reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, a second tape layer 34 is adhered to front panel 12 adjacent opening 24 to provide an adhesive friendly surface for receiving attachment of a flap 36. Second tape layer 34 may be transparent and may be formed of a plastic material. Second tape layer 34 may include an adhesive backing. In an embodiment, the adhesive backing may include adhesives such as, for example, adhesives sold by 3M Company, that are suitable for adhering to the outer surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20. In this instance, the particular adhesive of the first tape layer 30 adheres to the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and/or 20 even if the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, or 20 are made from a material or are coated with a laminate that generally resists common adhesives. Hence, only designated tapes 30, 34 may be adherable (or adherable in a substantially secure manner) to the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 at specified locations. Rear panel 14 may also include a third tape layer (not shown) similar to second tape layer 34.

[0165] First and second tape layers 30 and 34 are removably attached to front panel 12 by the adhesive backing or other similar forms of attachment. In an embodiment, the adhesive backing may include an adhesive that is a different kind of adhesive than that used for shipping label 32 to provide for adhesion to outer surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 when the outer surfaces of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 are resistant to adhesion of common adhesives such as those used for shipping labels.

[0166] Flap 36 is attached to rear panel 14 at a first end 38 (FIG. 6) and is configured to extend across the opening 24 to cover opening 24, as shown in FIG. 3. A second end 40 of flap 36 is securable to the second tape layer 34 of front panel 12 by an adhesive strip 42 (FIG. 3). As shown in FIG. 1, flap 36 includes a protective layer 44 covering adhesive strip 42 which is removable from flap 36 prior to securing second end 40 to second tape layer 34 of front panel 12. Flap 36 includes a first tear strip 46 adjacent first end 38 and a second tear strip 48 adjacent second end 40 which are tearable to remove flap 36 from mailer bag 10, as shown, for example, in FIG. 7. First and second tear strips 46 and 48 may include perforations 50. Specifically, the first and second tear strips 46 and 48 may include fine perforations that allow for the clean separation of two portions of the fabric, e.g., two portions of the flap 36, while providing a substantially smooth edge on each of the portions of the fabric. The fine perforations may be created by using needles having a specific size and shape and by creating each perforation a specific distance from adjacent perforations. In embodiments, the perforations are made in a unique pattern to optimize a smooth edge after being torn while maintaining structural integrity during shipping.

[0167] As shown in FIG. 1, each of first and second side panels 16 and 18 includes recessed portions 52 adjacent opening 24 to provide additional protection against pilfering when the flap 36 is secured to front panel 12 to close opening 24. As shown in more detail in FIG. 5, recessed portions 52 are formed by attaching each of side panels 16 and 18 to front and back panels 12 and 14 respectively adjacent opening 24 through the use of stitching, heat welding, or other similar methods, such that side panels 16 and 18 are recessed relative to the side edges 56 of front and back panels 16 and 18. Recessed portions 52 are also configured to inhibit carrying volume 22 and mailer bag 10 from being reversed. In some embodiments, the mailer bag 10 is non-reversible.

[0168] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, each of front panel 12 and rear panel 14 includes a handle 58, 60 attached to interior surface 26 adjacent opening 24. Handles 58 and 60 are configured to be received entirely within carrying volume 22 and are extendable out of opening 24 when opening 24 is not closed by flap 36.

[0169] The use and operation of mailer bag 10 will now be described below.

[0170] In an initial state, opening 24 is uncovered with flap 36 attached to rear panel 14, as shown in FIG. 1. An item or product (not shown) to be shipped to an end user, e.g., a customer or consumer, is inserted into carrying volume 22 and a shipping label 32 is applied to the first tape layer 30. Handles 58 and 60 are positioned entirely within carrying volume 22 and the protective layer 44 of flap 36 is removed to expose adhesive strip 42. Flap 36 is then extended across opening 24 to close opening 24, as shown in FIG. 3. Adhesive strip 42 is attached to second tape layer 34 of front panel 12 to secure flap 36 in place. Mailer bag 10 is now prepared for shipping to an end user.

[0171] Referring now to FIG. 7, after shipping, once the end user has received mailer bag 10, the flap 36 is removed by tearing along the tear strips 46 and 48 of flap 36. In addition, or alternatively, the second tape layer 34 may be removed from front panel 12 to remove flap 36. In an embodiment, first end 38 of flap 36 may also be removable from rear panel 14 by removing a third tape layer (not shown) on rear panel 14 that is similar to second tape layer 34.

[0172] With continued reference to FIG. 7, the end user may remove the shipping label 32 and/or first tape layer 30 to reveal hidden surface 33 which, as described above, may include promotional codes, advertising, or a writable surface.

[0173] Once the flap 36 has been removed, handles 58 and 60 may be extended from the carrying volume 22 through opening 24 such that mailer bag 10 is converted into a carrying bag or tote.

[0174] In an embodiment, replacement first and second tape layers (not shown) may be provided or included with mailer bag 10 that are similar to first and second tape layers 30 and 34 may be added to front panel 12 by the end user. A new shipping label 32 may then be attached to the replacement first tape layer to allow for further shipping. In this embodiment, an additional adhesive strip (not shown) and protective layer (not shown) which is similar to adhesive strip 42 and protective layer 44 may be provided on flap 36 adjacent tear strip 46. The flap 36 is partially detached from mailer bag 10 by only tearing along tear strip 46 to provide access to carrying volume 22 through opening 24 and the flap 36 may be extended over opening 24 to close carrying volume 22 once an item to be shipped has been added to carrying volume 22. The additional adhesive strip and protective layer allows flap 36 to be secured to the second replacement tape layer in a similar manner to that described above for adhesive strip 42, protective layer 44, and second tape layer 34 to provide a second closure of the opening 24 for the second shipping. In this manner the mailer bag 10 may be re-used by the end user for shipping another item or product.

[0175] With reference to FIGS. 8-10, another mailer bag 110 is provided in accordance with the present disclosure. The mailer bag 110 is similar to the mailer bag 10 detailed above with like elements labeled with a similar label with a 1 preceding the previous label and will not be detailed herein for brevity. The mailer bag 110 includes a front panel 112, a rear panel 114, first side panel 116, a second panel 118, and a bottom panel 120 that are joined together by stitching, gussets, adhesives, welding, or other similar methods of joining to form a carrying volume 122.

[0176] The mailer bag 110 includes a flap 136 configured to extend across and close an opening 124 of the mailer bag 110, which is opposite the bottom panel 120. The flap 136 includes a first end portion 138, a second end portion 140, a first side flap or extension 162, and a second side flap or extension 164. The first end portion 138 is attached to the rear panel 114 and the second end portion 140 is securable to the front panel 112. The front panel 112 includes a first tape layer 130 and a second tape layer 134 that are releasably attached to the front panel 112. The second end portion 140 of the flap 136 may be secured to the front panel 112 by the second tape layer 134.

[0177] The rear panel 114 may include a third tape layer 166 and a fourth tape layer 168. The third tape layer 166 is adjacent a top edge 115 of the rear panel 114 and the first side panel 116. The fourth tape layer 168 is adjacent the top edge 115 and the second side panel 118. The third and fourth tape layers 166, 168 may form a single continuous tape layer adjacent the top edge 115.

[0178] The first side extension 162 extends from a first side edge 137 of the flap 136 and the second side extension 164 extends from a second side edge 139 of the flap 136. In embodiments, the first and second side extensions 162, 164 extend from portions of the first and second side edges 137, 139 entirely along the second end portion 140 of the flap 136. The flap 136 may include tear strips 165 along the first and second side edges 137, 139 where the first and second side extensions 162, 164 meet the first and second side edges 137, 139. The tear strips 165 may form a continuous tear strip with a tear strip 148 between the second end portion 140 and a main portion of the flap 136.

[0179] The first and second side extensions 162, 164 are configured to cover portions of the first and second side panels 116, 118, respectively, to prevent tampering with contents in the carrying volume 112 when the mailer bag 110 is sealed for mailing. The first and second side extension 162, 164 may allow for mailer bags having side panels 116, 118 having a dimension along the bottom panel 120 greater than eight inches. For example, the side panels 116, 118 may have a dimension along the bottom portion 120 in a range of about 8 inches to about 14 inches.

[0180] In some embodiments, the first and second side extension 162, 164 extend from the first and second side edges 137 of the flap along the first end portion 140 of the flap 136 such that the first and second side extensions 162, 164 extend from the rear panel 114 and releasably secure to the front panel 112. In such embodiments, the third and fourth tape layers 166, 168 may be disposed on the front panel 112. Alternatively, the third and fourth tape layers 166, 168 may be disposed on a surface of the second end portion 140 opposite a surface of the second end portion 140 that is secured to the front panel 112 such that the first and second side extension 162, 164 are secured directly to the second end portion 140. In embodiments, the first and second side extensions 162, 164 may secure to the second tape layer 134 and include the third and fourth tape layers 166, 168 on a surface opposite the surface that secures the second tape layer 134 such that the second end portion 140 is secured to the second, third, and fourth tape layers 134, 166, 168 to close the opening 124.

[0181] The front and/or rear panel 112, 114 may include an internal pocket 172 on an inner surface 113 defining the carrying volume 122. The internal pocket 172 may be formed of a sheet of material secured to the inner surface 113. The internal pocket 172 may allow the items to be secured to the front and/or rear panel 112, 114 and secured separate from the carrying volume 122. For example, a cooling medium, e.g., dry ice, may be secured within the internal pocket 172 to keep the carrying volume 122 at or below a desired temperature during shipping. The internal pocket 172 may include a closure mechanism similar to the closure mechanism 125 to selectively close the internal pocket 172.

[0182] In some embodiments, the front, rear, bottom, and/or side panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 may be insulated, padded, and/or coated to protect the contents of the carrying volume and/or the mailer bag 110.

[0183] Continuing to refer to FIGS. 8-10, the use of the mailer bag 110 to ship one or more items and then to convert the mailer bag 110 into a tote is described in accordance with the present disclosure. The mailer bag 110 may be provided in a flat, folded configuration such that handles 158 of the mailer bag 110 are disposed within a carrying volume 122 of the mailer bag 110. The mailer bag 110 is unfolded such that the carrying volume 122 is accessible through the opening 124. The item or items to be shipped are placed within the carrying volume 122. The item or items may be wrapped in protective packaging. In some embodiments, a cooling medium, e.g., dry ice, may be secured in the internal pocket 172 of the mailer bag 110 before or after the item(s) is placed in the carrying volume 122.

[0184] With the item(s) to be shipped are placed within the carrying volume 122, a closure mechanism 125 may be used to close the opening 124 of the mailer bag 110. The closure mechanism 125 may be a zipper, string and eyelets, a hook and loop fastener system, or another suitable closure mechanism. A top portion of each of the front and rear panels 112, 114 are pinched together to close the opening 124 for shipping. As the front and rear panels 112, 114 are pinched together, each of the first and second side panels 116, 118 may be folded into the carrying volume 122. The flap 136 is then folded over the opening 124 and the second end portion 140 is secured to the second tape strip 134. To secure the second end portion 140 to the second tape strip 134, a protective layer 144 may be removed from over an adhesive strip 142 to expose the adhesive strip 142 which is subsequently pressed into the second strip 134 and/or the front panel 112.

[0185] The first and second side extensions 162, 164 are then folded over the respective first or second side panel 116, 118 and secured to the respective one of the third or fourth tape strip 166, 168. The first and/or second side extensions 162, 164 may include an adhesive strip and protective layer similar to the adhesive strip 142 and protective layer 144. The first and second side extension 162, 164 further protect access to the carrying volume 122 when the mailer bag 110 is in transit.

[0186] The mailer bag 110 may be labeled and shipped in a manner similar to the mailer bag 10 detailed above.

[0187] When the mailer bag 110 is received, the first side extension 162, second side extension 164, and/or the flap 136 may be pulled to open the mailer bag 110. Specifically, as the respective one of the extensions 162, 164 or the flap 136 is pulled, the tear strips 146, 148, 165 may rip to allow for access to the carrying volume 122. When the mailer bag 110 includes a closure mechanism 125, the closure mechanism 125 may prevent access to the carrying volume 122 and may also need to be opened, e.g., unzipped, to access the carrying volume 122 after the tear strip or strips 146, 148, 165 are ripped. The tear strips 146, 148, 165 are designed to be able to withstand the rigors of being shipped and to be easily ripped when force is directly applied along or adjacent the respective tear strip 146, 148, 165. In addition, the tear strips 146, 148, 165 are configured to rip such that a clean edge remains after the tear strip 146, 148, 165 is ripped. Such a clean edge may be aesthetically preferred to a jagged edge when the mailer bag 110 is reused.

[0188] With the carrying volume 122 accessible through the opening 124, the contents may be removed from the carrying volume 122. The mailer bag 110 may then be converted to reusable tote by removing the first, second, third, and/or fourth tape strips 130, 134, 166, 168 from the respective panel to remove any remaining portions of the flap 136, first side extension 162, and/or second side extension 164 from the mailer bag 110. The handles 158 may then be pulled from within the carrying volume 122 such that the mailer bag 110 is converted into a reusable tote. As a reusable tote, the closure mechanism 125 may be used to close the carrying volume 122.

[0189] With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, another mailer bag 210 is provided in accordance with the present disclosure. The mailer bag 210 is similar to the mailer bag 10 detailed above with like elements labeled with a similar label with a 2 preceding the previous label and will not be detailed herein for brevity. The mailer bag 210 includes a front panel 212, a rear panel 214, first side panel 216, a second panel 218, and a bottom panel 220 that are joined together by stitching, gussets, adhesives, welding, or other similar methods of joining to form a carrying volume 222.

[0190] The mailer bag 210 includes a flap 236 configured to extend across and close an opening 224 of the mailer bag 210, which is opposite the bottom panel 220. The flap 236 includes a first end portion 238, a second end portion 240, a first side flap or extension 262, and a second side flap or extension 264. The first end portion 238 is attached to the rear panel 214 and the second end portion 240 is securable to the front panel 212. The front panel 212 includes a first tape layer 230 and a second tape layer 234 that are releasably attached to the front panel 212. The second end portion 240 of the flap 236 may be secured to the front panel 212 by the second tape layer 234.

[0191] The first side panel 216 may include a third tape layer 266 and the second side panel 218 may include a fourth tape layer (not explicitly shown). The third and fourth tape layers 266 are adjacent a top edge 217 of the respective side panel 216, 218.

[0192] The first side extension 262 extends from a first side edge 237 of the flap 236 and the second side extension 264 extends from a second side edge 239 of the flap 236. In embodiments, the first and second side extensions 262, 264 extend from portions of the first and second side edges 237, 239 disposed between the first and second end portions 238, 240 of the flap 236. The flap 236 may include tear strips 265 along the first and second side edges 237, 239 where the first and second side extensions 262, 264 meet the first and second side edges 237, 239. The tear strips 265 may form a continuous tear strip with a tear strip 248 between the second end portion 240 and a main portion of the flap 236 and/or a tear strip 248 between the first end portion 238 and the main portion of the flap 236.

[0193] The first and second side extensions 262, 264 are configured to cover a gap G between the flap 236 and a respective one of the first or second side panels 216, 218 to prevent tampering with contents in the carrying volume 212 when the mailer bag 210 is sealed for mailing. As shown, the mailer bag 210 is scalable without pinching a top portion of the front and rear panels 212, 214 together such that the mailer bag 210 remains substantially cuboidic in shape, i.e., a three-dimensional shape having six rectangular surfaces. The first and second side extension 262, 264 may allow for mailer bags having side panels 216, 218 having a dimension along the bottom panel 220 greater than eight inches. For example, the side panels 216, 218 may have a dimension along the bottom portion 220 in a range of about 8 inches to about 24 inches.

[0194] With continued reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the use of the mailer bag 210 to ship one or more items and then to convert the mailer bag 210 into a tote is described in accordance with the present disclosure. The mailer bag 210 may be provided in a flat, folded configuration such that handles 258 of the mailer bag 210 are disposed within a carrying volume 222 of the mailer bag 210. The mailer bag 210 is unfolded such that the carrying volume 222 is accessible through the opening 224. The item or items to be shipped are placed within the carrying volume 222. The item or items may be wrapped in protective packaging. In some embodiments, a cooling medium, e.g., dry ice, may be secured in an internal pocket 272 of the mailer bag 210 before or after the item(s) is placed in the carrying volume 222.

[0195] With the item(s) to be shipped are placed within the carrying volume 222, a closure mechanism 225 may be used to close the opening 224 of the mailer bag 210. The closure mechanism 225 may be a zipper, string and eyelets, a hook and loop fastener system, or another suitable closure mechanism. The flap 236 is then folded over the opening 224 and the second end portion 240 is secured to the second tape strip 234. To secure the second end portion 240 to the second tape strip 234, a protective layer 244 may be removed from over an adhesive strip 242 to expose the adhesive strip 242 which is subsequently pressed into the second strip 234 and/or the front panel 212.

[0196] The first and second side extensions 262, 264 are then folded over the respective first or second side panel 216, 218 and secured to the respective one of the third or fourth tape strip 266. The first and/or second side extensions 262, 264 may include an adhesive strip and protective layer similar to the adhesive strip 242 and protective layer 244. The first and second side extension 262, 264 further protect access to the carrying volume 222 when the mailer bag 210 is in transit while allowing the mailer bag 210 to remain in a substantially cuboidic shape.

[0197] The mailer bag 210 may be labeled and shipped in a manner similar to the mailer bag 20 detailed above.

[0198] When the mailer bag 210 is received, the first side extension 262, second side extension 264, and/or the flap 236 may be pulled to open the mailer bag 210. Specifically, as the respective one of the extensions 262, 264 or the flap 236 is pulled, the tear strips 246, 248, 265 may rip to allow for access to the carrying volume 222. When the mailer bag 210 includes a closure mechanism 225, the closure mechanism 225 may prevent access to the carrying volume 222 and may also need to be opened, e.g., unzipped, to access the carrying volume 222 after the tear strip or strips 246, 248, 265 are ripped. The tear strips 246, 248, 265 are designed to be able to withstand the rigors of being shipped and to be easily ripped when force is directly applied along or adjacent the respective tear strip 246, 248, 265. In addition, the tear strips 246, 248, 265 are configured to rip such that a clean edge remains after the tear strip 246, 248, 265 is ripped. Such a clean edge may be aesthetically preferred to a jagged edge when the mailer bag 210 is reused.

[0199] With the carrying volume 222 accessible through the opening 224, the contents may be removed from the carrying volume 222. The mailer bag 210 may then be converted to reusable tote by removing the first, second, third, and/or fourth tape strips 230, 234, 266 from the respective panel to remove any remaining portions of the flap 236, first side extension 262, and/or second side extension 264 from the mailer bag 210. The handles 258 may then be pulled from within the carrying volume 222 such that the mailer bag 210 is converted into a reusable tote. As a reusable tote, the closure mechanism 225 may be used to close the carrying volume 222.

[0200] FIGS. 13A-13F show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag 510 for use in accordance with the present disclosure and a method of assembling the same for mailing. FIGS. 14A-14C show one envisioned method of removing the contents of the mailer bag 510 for reuse. Turning initially to FIGS. 13A-13F, reusable mailer 510 is similar to the other reusable mailer bags described herein and incorporates all of the same features and advantages attributed thereto, but for the purposes of brevity will only be described in such detail as necessary to explain the unique differences of mailer 510. Mailer bag 510 includes a removable tab or strip 540 that is attached to the rear 514 via a PSA adhesive 542 (or other similar type adhesive).

[0201] Once a gift item 350 is purchased at a local store, the gift item 350 can be carried around within the store within the mailer bag 510 until checkout via handles 515a, 515b. A gift card 520 comes with the mailer bag 510 and can be coordinated based on a Holiday, particular event (e.g., Birthday, Anniversary, Graduation, etc.), store-of-purchase, city, college, country, advertising, etc. After checkout, the user can simply fill in the card 520 with a given sentiment to personalize the card 520, place the card 520 within the pouch 518 defined within the inside surface of the front 512 or rear 514 panel of the mailer bag 510 and close the pouch 518. The user then tucks the handles 515a, 515b within the inside of the mailer bag 510 and then inserts the gift item 350 into the mailer bag 510.

[0202] Since the mailer bag 510 essentially acts as durable gift wrapping, the user simply collapses the sides 517 of the mailer bag 510 and adheres first portion 542 (after peeling protective mask therefrom) of the protective strip 540 to the rear panel 514 and pulls the remaining part of the protective strip 540 and second portion 545 around the top of the mailer bag 510 to enclose the gift 350 and adheres the second portion 545 (after peeling protective mask therefrom) to the front panel 512 of the mailer bag 510. The user then folds the side tabs 546 of the strip 540 around the sides 517 of the mailer bag 510. Once sealed, the user places the proper postage on the mailer bag 510 (onto the front or rear panel 512, 514, respectively) and mails the mailer bag 510 to the intended recipient. In embodiments, a postage compartment 521 may be included on the front or rear panels 512, 514, respectively.

[0203] In embodiments, the first portion 542 and side tabs 546 of the strip 540 may be made from a stretchable or elastic material to facilitate or accommodate larger gift items 350 within the reusable bag 510. In embodiments, the pouch 518 includes a self-closing mechanism 519 to facilitate retention of items contained therein and for the purposes of reuse. In other embodiments, the self-closing mechanism 519 of the pouch 518 includes a flap to retain items therein. In still other embodiments, the self-closing mechanism 519 of the pouch 518 includes a locking mechanism to secure items contained therein such as a magnetic clasp, hook and loop fasteners commonly sold under the trademark Velcro, snap-locks, tab locks or other locking mechanisms know in the art.

[0204] In embodiments, once the gift item 350 is secured within the reusable mailer bag 510, one of the front panel 512 or rear panel 514 may include a pre-paid mailing label (not shown) that simply needs to be scanned at the register or input into a kiosk with a mailing address to print a mailing label and the checkout counter can accept the package for shipping. The mailing label may be secured within the postage compartment 521.

[0205] In FIGS. 14A-14C, upon receipt of the reusable mailer bag 510, the recipient peels backs the side tabs 546 of the strip 540 and peels off the first and second portions 542, 545 of the protective strip 540 from the front of the reusable bag 510 to open the sides 517 and expose the interior of the mailer bag 510 revealing the gift item 350 contained therein. The gift recipient then removes the gift item 350 from the mailer bag 510 revealing the card pouch 518 containing the personalized gift card 520 therein. Once the gift item 350 has been opened and the sentiment conveyed, the recipient can convert the reusable mailer bag 510 into a tote 510 simply by removing the protective strip 540 from the front panel 512 and rear panel 514 and exposing the handles 515a, 515b from within the interior of the reusable mailer bag 510.

[0206] In other embodiments, users may custom print a reusable mailer bag 510 and gift card 520 on a kiosk or on-line. Again, the reusable mailer bags 510 may be themed based on Holidays, events, birthdays, stores, advertising, colleges, countries, etc. In these envisioned embodiments, the user would log onto a kiosk or computer and enter data or pick from a pre-organized menu of different mailer bags 510 based on the size of bag, size of gift, cost, detail of graphics, type of material, shipping cost, etc. Some reusable mailing bags 510 might be available to be customized and printed with basic graphics at the kiosk while others might be available in a few days or weeks. Other more common reusable mailer bags 510 with coordinating gift cards 520, e.g., Holiday themes, Birthday, Weddings, Anniversaries, etc., as discussed above, may be made ready for purchase and/or for use immediately at the store, on-line or at point of purchase.

[0207] FIGS. 15A-15I show another embodiment of a reusable mailer bag 610 for use in accordance with the present disclosure and a method of using the same. More particularly, reusable mailer 610 is similar to the other reusable mailer bags, in particular, mailer bag 510 described above, and incorporates all of the same features and advantages attributed thereto, but for the purposes of brevity will only be described in such detail as necessary to explain the unique differences of mailer 610. Mailer bag 610 includes a removable tab or strip 640 that is attached to the rear panel 614 via a PSA adhesive 642 (or other similar type adhesive).

[0208] Once a gift item 350 is purchased, the gift item 350 can be carried around within the mailer bag 610 until checkout via handles 615a, 615b. A gift card 520 comes with the mailer bag 610 (or can be purchased along-side or separately) and can be coordinated based on one or more specialized events as described above. After checkout, the user personalizes the card 520 and places the card 520 within the pouch 618 defined within the front 612 or rear 614 panel of the mailer bag 610 and closes the pouch 618. The user then tucks the handles 615a, 615b within the mailer bag 610 and inserts the gift 350.

[0209] Similar to above, the user collapses the sides 617 of the mailer bag 610 and the adheres the first and second portions 642, 645 of the strip 640 around the top of the mailer bag 610 as described above to close the gift within the mailer bag 610. In this instance, however, a protective peel-away film 613 is disposed on the front panel 612 and back panel 614 of the mailer bag 610 and the strip 640 is adhered to the protective film 613 on the rear panel 614 in the initial step (FIG. 15A) and to the front panel 612 to close the mailer bag 610 with the gift 350 disposed therein in the step shown in FIG. 15E. The user then folds the side tabs 646 of the strip 640 around the sides panel 617 of the mailer bag 610 and adheres the sides tabs 646 of the strip 640 to the protective film 613.

[0210] Once sealed, the user places the proper postage on the mailer bag 610 (onto the front or rear panel 612, 614, respectively) and mails the mailer bag 610 to the intended recipient. In embodiments, a postage compartment 621 may be included on the front or rear panels 612, 614, respectively.

[0211] Similar to the above embodiments, the first and second portions 642, 645 and sides 646 of the strip 640 may be made from a stretchable or elastic material to facilitate or accommodate larger gift items 350 within the reusable bag 610. Moreover, pouch 618 may include a self-closing mechanism, e.g., a locking mechanism 619. Further, a pre-paid mailing label (not shown) may be scanned at the register or input into a kiosk with a mailing address to print a mailing label at the checkout counter for shipping purposes.

[0212] Turning now to FIGS. 15G-15I, upon receipt of the reusable mailer bag 610, instead of trying to peel the protective strip 640 from the bag 610 as described above, in this envisioned embodiment, the gift recipient peels the protective film 613 from either the front or rear panel 612, 614, respectively, of the mailer bag 610 which, in turn, peels the protective strip 640 and exposes the contents of the mailer bag 610. It is envisioned that the protective film 613 may be made from a different material that is easier to peel from the mailer bag 610 thereby facilitating the process of opening the mailer bag 610 and exposing the gift 350. Moreover, it is envisioned that the protective film 613 may be distinguishable in color or texture from the mailer bag 610 or the protective strip 640 making the protective film 613 easier to locate, handle, grasp, and/or peel from the mailer bag 610, or in some cases, discard.

[0213] It is envisioned that the protective strip 640 and the protective film 613 may be made from materials or include an adhesive that has a higher bonding strength to one another than the protective film 613 has to the mailer bag 610 for both shipping and handling purposes and for facilitating removal of the protective film 613 from the mailer bag 610 by the gift recipient. Or the protective film 613 may use a first adhesive having one bonding strength or coefficient of adhesion to the mailer bag 610 and the protective strip 640 may use a different adhesive having a higher bonding strength.

[0214] In embodiments, both the protective strip 640 and protective film 613 may be made from recyclable or biodegradable materials. The protective film 613 may include indicia 627 printed thereon facilitating assembly of the mailer bag 610, e.g., directions for use, may include visual or fiducial markings for placing the protective strip 640 and side tabs 646 on the front and rear panels 612, 614, respectively, of the mailer bag 610, and/or may include advertising or holiday themes which can be imprinted on the protective film 613 and adhered to the mailer bag 610.

[0215] As can be appreciated, in certain instances, it would be desirable to have the indicia 627 imprinted on the protective film 613 come off with the protective film 613, e.g., directions, fiducial markings, etc., so the mailer bag 610 can be used as a reusable tote 610, whereas in other instances, it would be desirable to have the certain elements of the mailer bag 610 remain, e.g., collegiate advertising or store indicia. In embodiments, the protective film 613 may have a dual purpose and be utilized to expose secondary indicia 629, e.g., additional advertising, a secondary layer of store indicia or, in certain instances, a promotional item, gift, discount coupon/code, or prize. As can be appreciated, the protective film 613 would need to include some level of opaqueness or color to preclude the user from visualizing the secondary indicia 629 behind the protective film 613. In certain instances, indicia 627 may be imprinted onto protective film 613 in such a manner as to hide the secondary indicia 629.

[0216] As shown in FIG. 15G, the gift recipient pulls the protective film 613 from the front panel 612 (or rear panel 614), which, in turn, peels the protective strip 640 therealong. The gift recipient pulls the protective film 613 across the face of the front panel 612 in the direction of the arrows PI (generally across the face of the mailer bag 610 and towards the top thereof), then pulls the protective film 613 around one side 617 of the mailer bag 610 to release the side tabs 646 of the protective strip 640 and then peels the remainder of the protective film 613 from the rear panel 614 to expose the gift 350 within the mailer bag 610.

[0217] The gift recipient then removes the gift item 350 from the mailer bag 610 revealing the card pouch 618 containing the personalized gift card 520 therein. Once the gift item 350 has been opened and the sentiment conveyed, the recipient can convert the reusable mailer bag 610 into a tote 610 simply by removing the protective film 613 and protective strip 640 as described above from the mailer bag 610 and exposing the handles 615a, 615b from within the interior of the reusable mailer bag 610 (FIG. 15I).

[0218] FIGS. 16A-16C show various views of another embodiment of the reusable mailer bag which is shaped in the form of a lunch box, hereinafter termed mailer/lunch box 710. Again, for the purposes of brevity, mailer/lunch box 710 is similar to the other reusable mailer bags described above and incorporates all of the same features and advantages attributed thereto but will only be described in such detail as necessary to explain the unique differences of mailer/lunch box 710.

[0219] Similar to the mailer bags above, mailer/lunch box 710 includes a removable tab or strip 740 that is attached to the top panel 712 via an adhesive. Assembling the mailer/lunch box 710 for mailing and removing the gift 350 from within the mailer/lunch box 710 are similar to the mailer bags described above with the exception that top panel 712 of the mailer/lunch box 710 includes a zipper 795 disposed along the side 717 thereof which is configured to enclose the gift 350 therein for shipping and secure contents therein during transport when converted after shipping to a lunch box 710. Other mechanism for securing the items within the carrying volume are also contemplated, e.g., magnetically engaging elements, latch and catch mechanism, and mechanically interlocking hook and loop fasteners.

[0220] Mailer/lunch box 710 also includes an insulated internal liner 755 disposed therein which is configured to thermally insulate the components of the mailer/lunch box 710 during transport or the lunch box 710 after conversion. The internal liner 755 may also be waterproof and include multiple layers of material, e.g., a layer of semi-pliable aluminum foil 755a (or a material with similar insulative, waterproof, thermally conductive properties), a layer of additional insulation 755b, and a rubberized or vulcanized bottom layer 755c (FIG. 16C). Other known insulating liners are envisioned. A removable strap 791 may be enclosed within the carrying volume and selectively engaged to the opposing side panels 717 after mailing.

[0221] FIGS. 17A-17D show various views of another embodiment of the reusable mailer bag which is shaped in the form of a lunch bag, hereinafter termed mailer/lunch bag 810. Mailer/lunch bag 810 is similar to the mailer/lunch box 710 described above, and incorporates all of the same features and advantages attributed thereto such as a protective strip 840 (FIG. 17A), but also includes removable handles 815a, 815b similar to the other bags described above for use as a lunch tote 810 (FIG. 17B) and the zipper 895 is elongated handle to enclose the top of the mailer/lunch bag 810 (FIG. 17C) and lunch bag 810 (FIG. 17D). Mailer/lunch bag 810 also includes an insulated internal liner 855 disposed therein which is configured to thermally insulate the components of the mailer/lunch bag 810 during transport or the lunch bag 810 after conversion or lunch tote 810 when carrying.

[0222] FIGS. 18A-18C show various views of another embodiment of the reusable mailer bag which is shaped in the form of a backpack, hereinafter termed mailer/backpack 910. Mailer/backpack 910 is similar to the other reusable bags described above with the exception that the top 918 of the mailer/backpack 910 defines a carrying volume 919 that closes via a common drawstring 925 that is tucked into the mailer/backpack 910 during mailing assembly and then exposed and mechanically assembled to the outer panels 912 or 914 for use as a backpack 910. More particularly, to use as a mailer, the mailer/backpack 910 the gift 350 is inserted into the mailer/backpack 910 similar to the bags described above and the top 918 of the mailer/backpack 910 is cinched by pulling common drawstring 925. The protective strip 940 is then used to further secure the gift 350 for mailing purposes.

[0223] When the gift recipient receives the mailer/backpack 910, the gift recipient opens the mailer/backpack 910 is a similar fashion as described above, e.g., by pulling protective tab 940 from the mailer/backpack front and rear panels 912, 914, respectively, and manually opens the top 918 of the mailer/backpack 910 to expose the gift 350. The drawstring 925 is removed from the mailer/backpack 910 to form two straps 925a, 925b, respectively, which are attached through loops 935a, 935b of respective sides 917a, 917b of the mailer/backpack 910. Stays 926a, 926b may be employed to retain the straps 925a, 925b within the respective loops 935a, 935b. Other known mechanical attachments are also envisioned. The two straps 925a, 925b may be adjustable depending upon a particular purpose. The mailer/backpack 910 is now usable as a backpack 910.

[0224] A storage compartment 913 may be disposed within the front or rear panel 912, 914, respectively, of the mailer/backpack 910 for storing the gift card 520 during mailing. The storage compartment 913 may act as a secondary compartment for supplies when used as a backpack 910.

[0225] In an alternative embodiment, the mailer/backpack 910 may be used as a mailer when disposed in an inverted or inside-out orientation such that the drawstring 925, storage compartment 913 (with gift card 520), loops 935a, 935b and stays 926a, 926b, and other mechanical features are all disposed internally during mailing. This eliminates issues with mailing and exposed features later necessary with the mailer/backpack 910. Once the gift recipient receives the mailer/backpack 910, the gift recipient removes the protective strip 940 and exposes the gift 350 and card 520 (as described above) but inverts the mailer/backpack 910 to convert the mailer/backpack 910 for use as a backpack 910. As can be appreciated, this eliminates the need to assemble the straps 925a, 925b or other external mechanical components for use as a backpack 910. Any of the other mailer bags described above may be suitable for inversion depending upon a particular purpose.

[0226] In embodiments, only a portion of the protective tape 940 may be removed depending upon a particular purpose, e.g., durability, convenience, type of tape, type of mailer bag 910, compatibility between mailer bag 910 and protective tape 940, etc. For example, in one envisioned embodiment, after removing the front portion of the protective tape 940 from the front panel 912 of the backpack 910, the protective tape 940 remains attached to the rear panel 914 and is configured to wrap around an inside edge 921 of the carrying volume 919 giving the backpack 910 added strength and durability.

[0227] FIGS. 19A-19B is an illustrative example of a reusable mailer bag (but may be any of the mailer bags described above) which may be reused for a second or possibly multiple times for mailing gift items and converted to a tote, lunch box/bag or backpack generally referred to as multi-usable mailer bag 1010. Multi-usable mailer bag 1010 may be designed for use as any of the above bags but specifically designed for reuse of one or more reusable or disposable mailing features, e.g., the protective strip 1040, mailing label 1060, and in some instances, protective film 1013, are all selectively removeable, disposable and replaceable components for use with any of the aforementioned mailer bags.

[0228] As can be appreciated, one or all of these replaceable and disposable components, e.g., protective strip 1040, mailing label 1060, and in some instances, protective film 1013, may be sold separately or in multi-packs for subsequent use. It is envisioned that designing and utilizing any of the above reusable mailer bags or reusable mailer bags with the features described herein will greatly reduce the amount of waste associated with a normal mail cycle in that only the replaceable and disposable components become waste or are recycled while the remainder of the mailer bag serves another purpose, e.g., converts to a tote, lunch box/bag, backpack, reusable mailer and/or other envisioned consumer product.

[0229] As can be appreciated, the various mailer bags described above may be made from a variety of different products depending upon a particular purpose which can vary due to price point, theme, quality or design of the tote, lunch box/bag, backpack, etc., material for mailing or material for use (e.g., quality of material of tote or bag, insulation, and/or other features such as straps, handles, etc.). In addition, the removeable and disposable components may be made from an environmentally friendly material, e.g., biodegradable, recyclable, etc.

[0230] For example, it is envisioned that in addition to the many examples described above, aspects of the design may be simplified or the method of converting the mailer to a tote may be simplified or otherwise altered depending upon a different purpose, e.g., to make the mailer-to-tote more (or less) environmentally friendly, to make the mailer-to-tote more (or less) user friendly, to make the mailer-to-tote more (or less) user safe, to make mailer-to-tote less (or more) expensive, to make the mailer-to-tote more (or less) user safe, to make mailer-to-tote more (or less) durable, to make the mailer-to-tote more (or less) user safe, to make mailer-to-tote for one time mailer usage, etc.

[0231] In order to accomplish one or more of the above objectives, in embodiments, the mailer, e.g., mailer 510 (FIG. 13A-14C), may be made from a highly durable material that is resistant to tearing. The removeable strip 540 and adhesive 542 are press-fit onto the mailer 510 for shipping purposes as described above. Obviously, the adhesive-to-mailer contact integrity is essential during shipping so the contents of the mailer 510 are not lost during shipping.

[0232] When the recipient receives the mailer 510 and tears removeable strip 542 from the mailer 510 to open the mailer 510, it is important that the mailer 510 remain intact for subsequent use as a tote 510. In this instance, it is envisioned that the removable strip 540 may be fully removeable from the mailer 510 or only partially removeable from the mailer 540 via an engineered tear strip (not shown but disposed anywhere along and across the removeable strip 540. When the removeable strip 540 is fully removed from the mailer 510, the mailer 510 must be made from a material that durable enough to resist the forces required to peel the removeable strip 540 from the mailer 510 without tearing or conversion to a tote 510 will be moot. Further, careful considerations with mailer material and adhesive choices must be made under all shipping conditions, e.g., heat, cold, humid, wet, dry, etc.

[0233] When the removeable strip 540 is only partially removed, the remaining portion or edges of the removeable strip 540 may help fortify the exposed upper rim of the mailer 510 now being used as a tote 510. The mailer 510 may need to include indicia disposed thereon to help align the removeable strip 540 when orienting the removeable strip on the mailer 510 for shipping in this instance. Or, alternatively, the mailer 510 may be sold with the removable strip 540 already pre-aligned for shipping purposes (as with any embodiment described herein).

[0234] In embodiments, the mailer, e.g., 510, may be manufactured such that after the gift is inserted within the mailer 510, aligned and sealed via the removable strip 540, and mailed to the gift recipient, the gift recipient is instructed to tear the mailer 510 along a predefined line across the mailer 510 on the front and back panel 512, 514 or the mailer 510 to expose the gift. This line is positioned below the removable strip 540 on both the front and back panel 512, 514 and is an engineered tear strip (not shown) across and around the mailer 510 below the removeable strip 540 when scaled. Both the removeable strip 540 and the portion of the mailer 510 adhered to the removable strip 540 are discarded in this instance. In addition, the mailer 510 would typically include the removeable strip 540 already adhered to one panel, e.g., rear panel 514, and an indica line of the front panel (not shown) for alignment purposes to ensure proper placement of the removeable strip 540 when sealing the mailer 510 for shipping. In this instance, the mailer 510 is typically envisioned for use only one time as a mailer 510 whereas other bags described above may be utilized multiple times as a mailer 510 if desired by purchasing additional removeable strips 540. The upper or remaining edge of the tear strip may be reinforced with yet another adhesive strip which flaps over and around the entire exposed edge or the remaining edge may remain exposed in a decorative fashion, e.g., soft geometric edge pattern.

[0235] In embodiments, the card pouch, e.g., card pouch 618, may be located on the outside of the mailer bag 610 and secured for mailing using the same or a second protective tape or other type of closing mechanism. Although not ideal as the card (or other item disposed within the pouch) would be vulnerable to damage or tampering during transport, it may be useful for a particular purpose to design a mailer bag, backpack, lunch cooler in this fashion. Alternatively, two or more pouches could be utilized, e.g., one as described in detailed above on the inside of the mailer bag 610 and a second (or more) disposed on the outside of the mailer bag 610 for a particular purpose.

[0236] FIGS. 20-39D show additional embodiments of reusable mailer bags in accordance with the present disclosure. Generally, the mailer bags shown in FIGS. 20-39D may be constructed in accordance with any of the other mailer bags described herein with the noted exceptions described below. As such, only those features are discussed in detail for the purposes of brevity.

[0237] Turning initially to FIG. 20, the reusable mailer 2010 includes a carrying volume 2019 defining a top opening 2021 configured to receive a package 350 therein. The carrying volume 2019 is defined by an outer peripheral surface 2045 and an internal periphery surface 2050. The outer peripheral surface 2045 is made from a tough material suitable for mailing purposes such as propylene, polypropylene, polyethylene, and combinations thereof in non-woven, woven and high density fiberous variations. The internal peripheral surface 2050 may be any geometric configuration or free-form (e.g., bag-like) and generally includes opposing side walls 2050a, 2050c and opposing front and rear walls 2050b, 2050d cooperating to form the carrying volume 2019. One or more of the walls 2050a-2050d may be at least partially covered with a plush material 2030 or other material as explained in more detail below.

[0238] In embodiments, the plush material 2030 is made from at least one of felt, fleece, cotton, polyester, acrylic, flannel, faux suede, faux fur, minky, wool, sherpa and/or rubber. In embodiments, more than one plush material 2030 is used to cover one or more walls 2050a-2050d.

[0239] A first portion of a piece of protective tape 2040 removably adheres to the outer peripheral surface of the wall 2050b of the carrying volume and is configured to extend across the top opening 2021 and a second portion of the protective tape 2040 is configured to removably adhere to the outer peripheral surface of wall 2050d to close the carrying volume 2019 to configure the carrying volume 2019 for mailing purposes. After mailing, the protective tape 2040 is selectively removed (or one or both portions thereof) to expose the gift/package 350 within the carrying volume 2019. Once the gift 350 is removed from the carrying volume 2019, the carrying volume 2019 is selectively inverted to transition the plush material 2030 to the outer peripheral surface such that the reusable mailer 2010 may be used as a plush object or toy.

[0240] In aspects according to the present disclosure, the plush object is selected from the group consisting of toys, sleeping pillows, throw pillows, stockings, co-sleepers, sleep pads for babies, neck pillows, heating pads, themed toys, headwear, hand or finger puppets, jewelry case, thermos, clothing, and cooling pads. In other aspects according to the present disclosure, the reusable mailer 2010 includes handles 2022 disposed within the carrying volume, the handles 2022 being selectively exposable when the carrying volume 2019 is inverted.

[0241] In aspects according to the present disclosure, the plush material 2030 is configured to insulate and/or protect the gift 350 disposed within the carrying volume 2019 during mailing.

[0242] In aspects according to the present disclosure, the reusable mailer 2010 includes one or more closing mechanisms 2025 configured to close the carrying volume 2019 after inversion, the closing mechanism 2025 may be selected from the group consisting of zippers, press-locks, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, interlocking tabs, magnetic locking devices, and additional pieces of protective tape.

[0243] In aspects according to the present disclosure, the reusable mailer 2010 includes an insertable filler 2060 selectively insertable within the carrying volume 2019 (or otherwise associated with the reusable mailer 2010, e.g., disposed within (liner) or one or more of the walls 2050a-2050d) with the gift 350 prior to mailing. The insertable filler 2060 may be made from an expandable material and packed in the carrying volume 2019 in a greatly-reduced volume for mailing purposes, wherein, after the gift 350 and insertable filler 2060 are removed from the carrying volume 2019 and the carrying volume 2019 is inverted, the insertable filler 2060 is unpacked so that the insertable filler 2060 expands and is used to fill the inverted carrying volume 2019. In embodiments, the insertable filler 2060 is configured to expand to match the shape of the desired plush object.

[0244] In embodiments, the insertable filler 2060 is made from a viscoelastic material and vacuum-packed in a greatly-reduced volume for mailing purposes, wherein, after the gift 350 and insertable filler 2060 are removed from the carrying volume 2019 and the carrying volume 2019 is inverted, the insertable filler 2060 is unpacked so that the insertable filler 2060 expands and is used to fill the inverted carrying volume 2019. In embodiments, the insertable filler 2060 includes one or more photopolymer resins containing heat-activated foaming agents that are 3D printed with ETEC Digital Light Processing technology such as those sold under the trademark Freefoam owned by Desktop Metal. Using insertable fillers 2060 of this type may allow the carrying volume to expand to a specific shape when heated with customized hardness or softness. In embodiments, the re-usable mailer 2010 may be vacuum-packed and the interior carrying volume may be lined with a vacuum-packed and expandable material (FIGS. 23E-23H).

[0245] In embodiments, memory foam may be used for the insertable fillers 2060. For example, the memory foam may be vacuum-packed in a reduced-volume shape and/or size and packed with the package 350 for mailing purposes and then expanded to fill the inverted carrying volume 2019 for use as a plush object or toy.

[0246] In embodiments, the inner peripheral surface 2050 may include indicia disposed thereon that is exposed when the carrying volume 2019 is inverted for a variety of different purposes. For example, the walls 2050a-2050d may: include one or more favorite movie, television or cartoon characters, that may be used as posters or for collection purposes; be used for arts, crafts or coloring purposes; be used for various games such as tic-tac-toe, hang-man, crossword puzzles, or even simple board games; may be used as instructional bases or boards for art projects or holiday decoration projects; may be used for special notes for loved ones (or Santa Clause) from or for one or more individuals wherein the carrying volume 2019 is inverted prior to mailing to inscribed the note; may be used as a X-may or Holiday list to send to Santa wherein after the original gift 350 is received and the carrying volume 2019 is inverted to expose a blank X-mas list on at least one of the walls 2050a-2050d for completion by a child, the carrying volume 2019 is re-inverted and the X-mas list is sent to Santa (a mailing label for Santa and other special indicia may also be included to help sell the concept).

[0247] In embodiments where the carrying volume 2019 is inverted to expose arts and crafts projects, art projects, or decorative projects for the holidays, it is envisioned that the carrying volume 2019 may include a secondary pocket (not shown) that is configured to carrying one or more elements or products necessary for the intended project. These elements or products may be customized by the person mailing the reusable mailer 2010 or may be pre-packaged and sold as a project or decorative kit.

[0248] FIGS. 21-39D show various embodiments of the reusable mailer 2010 wherein the carrying volume 2019 when inverted turns into a predesignated plush object, toy, pillow, garment, puppet, jewelry case, thermos, etc. FIGS. 21A and 21B show the reusable mailer 2110 wherein the carrying volume 2119 is converted into a Christmas or Holiday stocking (or other Holiday Items) when inverted. As can be appreciated, the stocking may include various Holiday (or other) indicia depicted on the outer surface thereof. The Holiday indicia may be customizable prior to mailing the mailer bag 2110 and/or after inversion. The outer surface, when converted may include a Holiday-themed image, a writeable surface or may be made of a plush material or combinations thereof as explained in the examples below.

[0249] FIGS. 22A illustrates on envisioned embodiment of a reusable mailer 2210 wherein the reusable mailer 2210 converts into a rollable pillow or TV pillow, co-sleeper or child or infant bed. Expandable material may be employed to provide a filler or a filler material may be required to stuff inside the carrying volume once inverted.

[0250] FIG. 22B show various embodiments of the reusable mailer 2310a-2310c wherein the reusable mailer 2310a-2310c when inverted turns into a plurality of differently-shaped and sized plush throw pillows. As mentioned above, the carrying volume, e.g., carrying volume 2019, may be filled in a manner to facilitate forming the shape and/or size of the throw pillow. FIGS. 22C-22E illustrate reusable mailer 2410a, 2410b, 2510a, and 2510b that convert into a pillow having a themed character disposed thereon. The character may be 2D or 3D and may be a generic character or may be a licensed character from the movies, television or the like. In a similar fashion, FIG. 22F illustrates a reusable mailer 2610a-2610f converting into a pillow, throw pillow or toy having a sports theme or sports teams depicted thereon. Again, sports theme may be 2D or 3D and may be a generic sports theme or may be a licensed sports franchise from any sport.

[0251] FIGS. 23-26B show various embodiments of the reusable mailer 2710 wherein the reusable mailer 2710 when inverted turns into a variety of different hand puppets 2710a-2710f (FIG. 25), finger puppets 2810a-2810c (FIG. 26B) and/or dolls (not shown). In this instance, the carrying volume, e.g., carrying volume 2019, is not necessarily filled with filler materials, but instead is utilized as a place for a user's hand or fingers to manipulate the hand or finger puppet. The outer surfaces of the respective reusable mailer 2710, 2810 when inverted, may be plush or include a writable surface or other indicia. The finger puppets 2810a-2810e of FIG. 26B may be included within the carrying volume 2019 as a promotional gift item.

[0252] FIGS. 27A-30 show various embodiments of reusable mailers 2910, 3010, 3110, and 3210 wherein the reusable mailers 2910, 3010, 3110, and 3210 include a writeable surface on the outer surface thereof when disposed in a mailer configuration (FIGS. 27A-28) or includes a writeable or craft-like surface on the inner peripheral surface of the carrying volume, e.g., carrying volume 2019, such that, when inverted, the writing or craft-like surface is disposed on the outside. Reusable mailers 2910, 3010 may be sold with markers, crayons, pencils, pens, etc. such that a personalized message may be inscribed or drawn on the writable surface. The surface maybe craft-like meaning that is receptive to various glues and adhesives. As mentioned above, the writable surface may be used for writing notes to loved ones or Santa Clause. Moreover, the entire surface of the bag, when inverted may include a writeable or drawable surface FIG. 30.

[0253] In embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 31A-32B, the reusable mailer 3310, when inverted, may be configured to turn into a beach or boat bag. The beach bag may include an outer surface which, when inverted, is canvas-like and rugged for beach environments. Rope-like or cord-like handles 3223a may be included or may be configured to easily attach to the reusable bag 3310 once inverted. The reusable mailer 3310, when converted into a reusable boat bag (FIGS. 32A and 32B), may be made from a waterproof and leakproof material and include a beverage sleeve 3317.

[0254] In embodiments, the reusable boat bag 3310 when inverted is scalable such that it is completely waterproof and leak proof. Any known sealing or closing mechanism 3347 is envisioned to accomplish this purpose. In embodiments, the reusable boat bag 3310 may be configured to act as a floatation device or flotation assistance mechanism when sealed. Simply by throwing in an air cartridge, the reusable mailer 3310 when configured as a reusable boat bag 3310 may be filled with air. An air valve 3349 may also be disposed on the reusable mailer 3310. A safety light 3351 may also be disposed on the reusable mailer 3310 which may be water activated.

[0255] FIGS. 33A-33D show various embodiments of a reusable mailer 3410 wherein the carrying volume, e.g., carrying volume 2019, when inverted turns into a predesignated plush pouch, handbag or purse with handle. The purse or handbag may include any type of material on the inner surface of the mailer 3410 for shipping purposes which, when inverted, forms the outer surface 3450 (see, e.g., FIG. 33) of the handbag or purse. In certain instances, more emphasis may be placed on the protection of the gift 350 during mailing and thus the inner surface of the carrying volume, e.g., carrying volume 2019, will be designed primarily for gift/package 350 protection purpose with a secondary feature being the look, feel and design of the outer surface of the handbag or purse. In other instances, the design of the inner surface will primarily focus on the look, feel and design of the handbag or purse when the carrying volume 2019 is inverted.

[0256] FIGS. 33E-33H show one envisioned embodiment of the reusable mailer 3410 wherein the inner lining of the carrying volume, e.g. carrying volume 2019, is filled with an expandable material and the reusable mailer 3410 comes in a vacuum-packed configuration. FIGS. 33E-33H show the various steps to releasing the reusable mailer 3410 from a vacuum configuration and expanding the material to form the designated bag: 1) open or release the reusable mailer 3410 from the vacuum package (FIG. 33E); 2) stretch the reusable mailer 3410 (FIG. 33F); 3) manipulate the reusable mailer 3410 to stretch the expandable material (FIG. 33G); and 4) let the reusable mailer 3410 sit for approximately 24 hours to fully recover the desired shape (FIG. 33H).

[0257] FIGS. 34A-34B show one envisioned embodiment of the reusable mailer 3610 wherein the reusable mailer 3610, when inverted, turns into a piece of clothing, e.g., a hat or other type of headwear. E show one envisioned embodiment of the reusable mailer 3710 wherein the reusable mailer 3710 turns into a jewelry box or case. Similar to the method of shipping the reusable mailers 3710 as described above, the reusable mailer 3710 is taped closed for shipping purposes via tape 540. However, in this instance the reusable mailer 3710 is not intended to be inverted when received (although in configurations it may be inverted). In this instance a stiffener material 3739 is configured to be inserted into the carrying volume, e.g., 3719, to stiffen the jewelry case 3710 for use. In embodiments, the reusable mailer 3710 is shipped as a relatively soft material and then stiffened via use of the stiffener 3739 for use as a jewelry case 3710. The stiffener 3739 may be shipped with the reusable mailer 3710, e.g., forming a bottom surface thereof, or may be otherwise attached to the reusable mailer 3710 or purchased separately. In embodiments, the stiffener 3739 is made from a material that is transitionable from a soft material to a hardened material by some sort of chemical reaction or the like, e.g., when exposed to water. A zipper 3727 may be included to close the top 3719 of the reusable mailer during shipping and later to secure the contents of the jewelry case 3710.

[0258] FIGS. 36A-36E show one envisioned embodiment of the reusable mailer 3810 wherein the reusable mailer 3810 turns into a thermos. Similar to the method of shipping the reusable mailers 3810 as described above (FIGS. 35A-35F), the reusable mailer 3810 is taped closed for shipping purposes via tape 540. A lid 3857 may be screwed onto the top of the reusable mailer 3810 to close the carrying volume 3819. In this instance the reusable mailer 3810 is not intended to be inverted when received (although in configurations it may be inverted).

[0259] FIGS. 37A-34B show one envisioned embodiment of the reusable mailer 3910 wherein the reusable mailer 3910, when inverted, turns into a diaper bag. The diaper bag may include a writable surface 3912a (see also FIGS. 27A-30) and one or more compartments 3917a disposed on the outside of the diaper bag when inverted. A series of zippers may be employed to close the various compartments.

[0260] FIGS. 38A-38B show one envisioned embodiment of the reusable mailer 4010 wherein the reusable mailer 4010, when inverted, turns into an evening purse. The evening purse may include a flap 4512a to selectively close the carrying volume, e.g., carrying volume 2019, and one or more compartments disposed on the outside of the purse when inverted similar to the diaper bag of FIGS. 37A-37B. The evening purse may include a handle 4023 that may be selectively attached to the evening purse or may be integrally associated therewith.

[0261] FIGS. 39A-39D show one envisioned embodiment of the reusable mailer 4110 wherein the reusable mailer 4110, when inverted, turns into clothing 4163, e.g., a hoodie, sweatshirt, windbreaker, jacket, coat, t-shirt, polo, pants, etc. The reusable mailer 4110 in this instance acts as a storage pouch 4169 for the clothing 4163. When the reusable mailer 4110 is received, the clothing 4163 is packed within the carrying volume 4119 in a compressed, vacuum-packed or other condition to allow room for the gift 350 within the carrying volume 4119. In embodiments, the clothing item 4163 may be the actual gift 350 that is stored within the carrying volume 4119 and shipped. In other embodiments, the clothing item 4163 can act as a liner within the carrying volume 4119 for protecting the gift 350.

[0262] Once received, the gift 350 is removed and the clothing item 4163 is inverted from the carrying volume 4119 to reveal the clothing item 4163. In embodiments, the reusable mailer 4110, when inverted, is disposed within the clothing item 4163 and acts as a convenient storage pouch 4169 wherein the clothing item 4163 can be folded back into the storage pouch 4169 for storage and handling. In other embodiments, the clothing item 4163 may be removable from the reusable mailer 4110 by a separation tab (not shown) or other simple means of separating the two items. As mentioned above, any clothing item 4163 may be configured for use with the reusable mailer 4110.

[0263] In other envisioned embodiments, the mailer may be a so-called 3-in-1 mailer wherein the mailer 5110 is convertible (by inversion or other manipulation) into a second configuration designated for a particular use and then the mailer is convertible from the second configuration into a third configuration via inversion or some other type of manipulation. For example and as shown in FIG. 40, the mailer 5110 is initially used as a mailer wherein a gift or other item 5300 (and card 5310 if desired inserted into the inner pocket). After the mailer 5110 is received, the recipient opens the mailer and removes the item 5300 contained therein. The recipient may then invert or otherwise manipulate the mailer 5110 to form a second configuration to expose a garment, e.g., a sweatshirt or hoodie 5115 (FIG. 40). The user may use, e.g., wear, the reconfigured mailer which is now a sweatshirt 5115 as desired. The sweatshirt 5115 may be manipulated or inverted into a third configuration for another designated purpose, e.g., a backpack 5118 with a zipper pocket 5119 and drawstring or shoulder straps 5120.

[0264] As can be appreciated, any of the aforedescribed mailer embodiments may be configured for use as a 3-in-1 mailer similar to mailer 5110. For example, FIGS. 47A-47AB show various other envisioned embodiments of the 3-in-1 mailer 5110.

[0265] In embodiments, the mailer 5110 may have different types of materials specific for the intended use in each configuration, e.g., a plush outer surface when worn as a sweatshirt 5115 and a waterproof outer surface when disposed in the backpack configuration 5118.

[0266] In embodiments, the mailer 5110 may be convertible from the first configuration to either the second or third configurations or vice versa depending upon a particular purpose.

[0267] FIGS. 47A-47AB show various embodiments of the mailer 6110 which may be converted into a variety of different configurations once received by the recipient. In general, the mailer 6110 may be converted into a first configuration for a particular use and then may be selectively converted into second or third configurations for subsequent use. The mailer 6110 may be also reused as a mailer for sending packages or gifts to subsequent recipients. Further, the mailer 6110 may be selectively converted between the various configurations, i.e., first and second configuration, second and third configuration, third and forth configurations, third and first, third and second, and vice versa for all configurations.

[0268] In general, the following mailers 6110 and methods of converting are envisioned by the present disclosure: mailer-to-hat-to-backpack (FIG. 47A); mailer-to-shorts-to-backpack (FIG. 47B); mailer-to-skirt-to-backpack (FIG. 47C); mailer-to-hoodie-to-backpack (FIG. 47D); mailer-to-t-shirt-to-backpack (FIG. 47E); mailer-to-slipper-to-backpack (FIG. 47F); mailer-to-pillow-to-sleeping bag-to-carry-on (FIG. 47G); mailer-to-pillow-to-blanket-to-backpack (FIG. 47H); mailer-to-blanket-to-jacket-to-backpack (FIG. 47I); mailer-to-pillow-to-blanket-to-jacket-to-carry-on (FIG. 47J); mailer-to-tote (FIG. 47KA); mailer-to-backpack (FIG. 47KB); mailer-to-cooler bag (FIG. 47L); mailer-to-lunch bag (FIG. 47M); mailer-to-stocking (FIG. 47N); mailer-to-santa hat (FIG. 470); mailer-to-hip tote bag (FIG. 47P); mailer-to-cooler box (FIG. 47Q); mailer-to-pocket book (FIG. 47R); mailer-to-clear bag (FIG. 47S); mailer-to-beach bag (FIG. 47T); mailer-to-jewelry box (FIG. 47U); mailer-to-thermos (FIG. 47V); mailer-to-diaper bag (FIG. 47W); mailer-to-sports pillow-to-backpack (FIG. 47X); mailer-to-animal pillow-to-backpack (FIG. 47Y); mailer-to-neck pillow-to-backpack (FIG. 47Z); mailer-to-hand puppet (FIG. 47AA); and mailer-to-holiday pillow-to-backpack (FIG. 47AB). Other configurations of consumer products are also envisioned and are deemed within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0269] In embodiments, when the mailer 6110 is inverted and manipulated to form a plush object, the manipulation may include any one of: re-forming the carrying volume into a desired shape, filling the carrying volume with a fillable material (as explained above) to form the plush object, exposing one or more features of the plush object, e.g., arms, legs, pom-poms, flaps, etc.

[0270] In embodiments, the mailer 6110 may be configured into multiple different objects. For example, a mailer 6110 to pillow 6121 to sleeping bag 6115 to carry-on 6110 (again) (See FIG. 47G); a mailer 6110 to pillow 6115 to blanket 6123 to backpack 6121 (FIG. 47H); mailer 6110 to blanket 6123 to pillow 6117 to jacket 6115 to backpack 6121 (FIG. 47I); mailer 6110 to pillow 6115 to blanket 6123 to carry-on 6121 (FIG. 47J).

[0271] The present disclosure also relates to one or more methods of converting the mailer into a select object. Several of the methods are described above. In embodiments, the present disclosure includes a method of reusing the mailer (any one of the mailers described herein), including: inserting an item into a carrying volume of the mailer (e.g., mailer 6110), the carrying volume defined by an outer peripheral surface made from a first material and an inner peripheral surface at least partially covered by a second material; adhering a piece of protective tape including a first portion configured to removably adhere to a rear portion of the outer surface of the carrying volume and configured to extend across a top opening of the carrying volume and a second portion configured to removably adhere to a front portion of the outer surface of the carrying volume to close the carrying volume and configure the carrying volume for forwarding purposes; forwarding the mailer to a recipient; selectively removing the protective tape from the front portion and the rear portion of the carrying volume to expose and remove the item within the carrying volume; selectively inverting the carrying volume to expose the second material on the inner peripheral surface; and manipulating the carrying volume to transition the mailer to a useable object.

[0272] In embodiments, the useable object may include: a hat, shorts, skirt, stocking, holiday hat, bag, pocketbook, tote, jewelry case, diaper bag, sneaker, slippers, blanket, hoodie, jacket, carry-on, neck pillow, decorative pillow, hand-puppet, etc. In embodiments, the mailer may be further converted from the useable object into a second useable object, e.g., a backpack, a tote, a jacket, a hoodie, a blanket, a carry-on, etc. (See e.g., FIGS. 47G, 47H, 47I, and 47J)

[0273] In embodiments such as those described above, after mailing or forwarding to the recipient in some manner, the mailer 6110 may be manipulated to form a bag, tote, cooler or other object without it being necessary to convert the carrying volume such as those items shown by example in FIGS. 47KA, 47 KB, 47L, 47M, 47P, 47Q, 47 R, 47S, 47T, 47U, and 47V.

[0274] In embodiments, there may be no need to use and of the above mailers as actual mailers but may simply be utilized as tote bags for carrying gifts, coolers, backpacks, pillows, stockings, etc. In yet other embodiments, the user may opt to give the mailer in the tote bag configuration and the user then converts the mailer to any of the aforementioned shapes, e.g., backpack, pillow, stocking, hat, jacket, etc. In yet still other embodiments, the user may opt to convert the mailer back to the mailer configuration and send to another recipient for use. In other words, the mailer may be utilized by multiple different users as needed and mailed amongst themselves.

[0275] In embodiments, the mailer in a mailer configuration may include one particular shape to facilitate mailing and/or reduce shipping costs and, once converted, may be a completely different shape for another use. In some embodiments, the mailer in a mailer configuration may have a reduced profile with a reduced or specific carrying volume and, once inverted, the size and/or shape of the inverted mailer is differently-shaped and/or includes a larger carrying volume. In tis instance, additional carrying volume material may be included inside the carrying volume of the mailer in the mailing configuration which is exposed when the mailer is inverted.

[0276] FIGS. 48A-48C show yet another embodiment of a mailer 7110 that may be used as a mailer to send gifts or other merchandise, a tote bag or a neck pillow. More particularly, similar to the embodiments described above, the mailer 7110 may be utilized to mail gifts disposed within the carrying volume 7115 when disposed in a mailer configuration (FIG. 48A). Once received and the gift (and gift card) are taken out of the mailer 7110, the mailer 7110 may be inverted to expose the interior carrying volume 7115 therein (as discussed in detail above with a number of different embodiments) on the outside of the mailer 7110. The interior carrying volume 7115 (now exposed and on the outside of the mailer 7110) may be made from a plush material, leather, cloth, or other type of soft material. The mailer 7110 may be utilized as a tote or backpack if desired (FIG. 48B). One or more straps (described above) may be utilized to facilitate use as a tote or backpack.

[0277] The user may opt to convert the tote (or in some cases the mailer 7110 in a mail configuration) into a neck pillow for comfort purposes, e.g., use on a plane. To convert the tote to a neck pillow, the user feeds a pull string through an aperture defined in the outside of the mailer 7110, e.g., grommet 7111, and attaches one end of the pull string 7300 to an anchor disposed within the interior of the inverted carrying volume 7115. The user pulls the string 7300 relative to the inverted carrying volume 7115 to pull the anchor towards grommet 7111 and reform the mailer into a U-Shaped neck pillow (FIG. 48C). The user then slides a locking tab 7301 towards the grommet 7111 to lock the string 7300 and mailer 7110 in a neck pillow configuration.

[0278] As can be appreciated, the user may stuff the interior of the inverted carrying volume 7115 with stuffing or various carry-on items which form the fill for the neck pillow. In embodiments, clothing or other personal belongings may be used as fill for the neck pillow. Since neck pillows are not considered a so-called carry-on item or personal item on most planes, travelers may use the neck pillow to carry additional items onto a plane. Once on the plane or after landing, the neck pillow may be easily converted back to a tote bag (FIG. 47B) or mailer (FIG. 48A) for ease of transport by simply reversing the above steps.

[0279] While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.