GB2495773A

GB2495773A - Gift wrap with waterproofing

Info

Publication number: GB2495773A
Application number: GB1118213.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Nicola Rajska; Louise Oldridge
Original assignee: PEEL PAMPLEMOUSSE Ltd
Current assignee: PEEL PAMPLEMOUSSE Ltd
Priority date: 2011-10-21
Filing date: 2011-10-21
Publication date: 2013-04-24
Also published as: WO2013057509A3; WO2013057509A2; GB201118213D0

Abstract

The invention relates to a wrapping for gifts, particularly a wrapping that is re-usable. The gift wrap 102 comprises an outer layer 108 and waterproofing 109, and may further comprise an inner layer. The layers may be independently formed from fabrics such as organza, felt, canvas, cotton, polyester, cord, denim, silk, satin or hemp. Preferably both layers are formed from the same fabric. Gathering means (210, figure 2), stiffeners 104, and/or securing means may also be provided. Further provided is a roll comprising the gift wrap, a method of wrapping using the gift wrap, a gift container formed from the gift wrap, and a kit of parts containing the gift wrap.

Description

A Wrapping

Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a wrapping for gifts. Particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a wrapping for gifts, which is re-useable.

Background to the Invention

Typically, gifts or presents are wrapped in colourful paper, which is then ripped open by the recipient to reveal the gift. However, the ripped paper is often discarded in the household waste and therefore such wrapping is environmentally unfriendly. It is known to recycle such paper gift wrap in an effort to minimise the environmental impact but the paper is often difficult to recycle because of the pooi quality of fibres used and the amount of contaminants. People also try to reuse the paper gift wrap however it is not designed for such a purpose and readily tears or appears creased from previous folding. Paper gift bags allow an element of re-usability, however, such bags often do not conceal a gift completely and so require the gift to be additionally wrapped, thus using more resources. A further disadvantage of paper wrapping is that if the wrapping gets wet, the paper mulches, exposing the gift and often causes the gift to fall out of the wrapping.

An alternative to paper wrapping is to provide gift bags made from fabric. Such bags are generally used for wedding favours, being made from lace or organza type material. However, similarly to paper wrapping, if the fabric becomes wet, the water seeps through the mateiial and damages the gift inside. In addition, these fabrics rarely conceal the gift appropriately. Further disadvantageously, such gift bags are of set dimensions to receive specific shapes and sizes of gifts, and as such are of limited use. Fabric gift bags also tend to be manufactured in such a way that they are highly environmentally unfriendly with their sourcing and dyeing processes.

It is an object of aspects of the present invention to provide a solution to the above mentioned or other problems. In particular it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved wrapping for gifts.

Description of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a wrap for a gift, the wrap comprising an outer layer and a waterproofing means.

Optionally, the gift wrap may comprise a further inner layer.

In use, the optional inner layer is preferably positioned towards the inside surface of the gift wrap during wrapping, whereas the outer layer is preferably positioned towards the outside surface of the gift wrap in use.

Advantageously, the outer and optional inner layers are formed from fabric such that they can be decorative whilst providing a gift wrap that will not easily tear.

Preferably, the outer and optional inner layers are each independently formed from one or more of the following fabrics: organza, felt, canvas, cotton, polyester, cord, denim, silk, satin, hemp, or any other decorative fabric.

In one embodiment, the outer and optional inner layers are formed from substantially the same fabric.

Preferably, one or more of the outer and optional inner layers are formed from ecologically friendly fabrics that are preferably traceable. Most preferably the outer and optional inner layers are formed from at least 45% recycled polyester that is preferably traceable.

The outer and/or optional inner layers of fabric may be printed on one or more face thereof with decorative indicia, such as a picture or a pattern to allow the gift wrap to be reversible. Preferably, the printed indicia is printed with eco-friendly dyes and preferably by a sustainable method. In one embodiment, the outer layer may only be printed and the optional inner layer may be left blank as the gift wrap lining.

Advantageously, the waterproofing means is provided to prevent the gift from becoming wet and to prevent the gift wrap disintegrating. Further advantageously, the waterproofing means may further provide rigidity to the wrap and preferably an increased strength. This is particularly advantageous for the wrapping of heavy gift items.

The waterproofing means may be formed from either a coating or a waterproof layer, such as plastic material.

Preferably, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the waterproofing means comprises a coating. Said coating may be applied to the outer layer or the optional inner layer or both of the gift wrap Preferably said coating is applied to the outer face of the outer layer of the gift wrap.

Suitable coatings include any commercially available fabric waterproofing substance, (RIM) (TM) (RTM) (RIM) for example; Teflon, NiKWax Aqualex, Fabsil etc. Preferably the said waterproof coating is sprayable onto the fabric surface.

Alternatively, the waterproofing means may comprise a waterproof layer that may be plastic, for example. Said further plastic layer may be positioned on the inside or outside surface of the outer layer. Preferably, said further waterproof layer is positioned on the inside surface of the outer layer.

Preferably, in the case of an optional inner layer, the waterproofing means may comprise an intermediate waterproof layer positioned between the outer layer and the optional inner layer of the gift wrap. Most preferably therefore, said intermediate waterproof layer is formed from a plastic material.

Suitable plastic materials include, but are not limited to; polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene or any other substantially strong yet flexible plastic.

More preferably, the plastic material is a recycled or upcycled plastic material and/or a biodegradable plastic material. Examples of biodegradable plastic include, but are not limited to; polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, polybutylene succinate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose acetate, polyanhydride, or other plastics derived from a natural source such as cellulose.

Advantageously, such an intermediate waterproof layer is operable to create the desired crunch noise associated with the unwrapping of gifts.

Optionally, the gift wrap may also comprise a stain proof coating. Preferably said coating is applied to the fabric of the gift wrap in substantially the same way and position as the waterproof coating. Most preferably the waterproof coating is also stain proof such that the same coating performs both functions simultaneously.

Suitable stain proof coatings include any commercially available fabric stainproofing (RTN) (RIM) substance, for example; Teflon, Scotchg ard etc. Preferably the said stainproofing coating is sprayable onto the fabric surface. Preferably, the stainproof coating is ecologically friendly.

Advantageously, the stainproofing of the fabric of the gift wrap means that it will not be soiled by any stains during use, this allows the gift wrap to be reused multiple times.

According to any embodiment of the present invention where there are multiple layers, the layers may be held together by any bonding means such as; heat sealing, sticking with adhesive, stitching, tacking, or any other suitable means. Preferably the multiple layers of the gift wrap are stitched together.

The stitching may be provided in any pattern, for example; as a hem around the outer edge of the gift wrap, as parallel lines across the gift wrap, as concentric circles of stitching outward from the centre of the gift wrap, as one large circle in the gift wrap etc. Advantageously, the stitching further provides decoration to the gift wrap and adds to the strength of the layered construction. Further advantageously, the stitched lines may mark out suitable folding lines to direct the user during gift wrapping.

Although the invention is described herein with reference to discrete single outer, inner and intermediate layers, it is envisaged that there may be a plurality of sheets of material that may make up any of the outer, inner and intermediate layers in any embodiment of the invention.

Preferably, the gift wrap according to the present invention is provided with a gift tag.

The gift tag may be a separate entity from the gift wrap however it may be attached to the gift wrap by any suitable means for example; buttons, ties, toggles, stitching, heat sealing, sticking with adhesive, tacking, poppers, hook and pile, clips, pins etc. Alternatively, the gift tag may be preformed into the fabric of the gift wrap. Most preferably the gift tag is located upon the outer layer of the gift wrap, preferably in a visible area.

Preferably, the gift tag is formed from fabric. Most preferably the fabric is the same fabric as the outer layer upon which it is to be attached.

The gift tag may further comprise a pocket or pouch, which may have a substantially transparent viewing window. Preferably the gift tag is provided with a slit opening to the pocket wherein a card may be insertable.

In one embodiment, the gift wrap is provided with stiffening means which may be embedded within any of the layers of any of the embodiments of the invention, or it may be a treatment applied to the fabric layer/layers of the gift wiap.

The embedded stiffening means may be formed fiom a nonelastic deformable material such as, but not limited to; metal. In one embodiment, the stiffening means comprises one or more wires, such as, for example one or more metal wires.

The treatment stiffening means may be formed from an iron-in or sprayable fabric treatment for example; a starch treatment.

Preferably, the stiffening means is embedded. Preferably the stiffening means is embedded within the outer layer of the gift wrap. The embedded stiffening means may either be added into the outer layer after manufacture by the pushing through of a wire or other nonelastic deformable material, or it may be woven in during manufacture within the weft and/or warp of the fabric itself. Most preferably the stiffening means is woven into the fabric of the outer layer during manufacture such that it is present throughout the fabric of the outer layer of the gift wrap.

If the embedded stiffening means is added to the outer layer of the gift wrap after manufacture it may be present at intervals along the gift wrap or as a grid within the gift wrap. Preferably the stiffening means is present at intervals as generally parallel lines running in any direction across the gift wrap. Most preferably the stiffening means is present at intervals of between about 0.5cm and 10cm apart, depending on the gauge of the wire or other nonelastic deformable material used. If the gauge is higher then the interval between the parallel lines will be larger.

The stiffening means is preferably operable to allow the gift wrap to deform with pressure around any shape of gift and remain folded in position without the need for further securing means such as glue, adhesive tape or ties.

In a further embodiment, the gift wrap is provided with a gatherable material which may be embedded within any of the layers of any of the embodiments of the invention.

The gatherable material may comprise any embedded material such as ribbon or cord, but is preferably an elasticised embedded material such as, but not limited to; elastic cord, rubber bands etc, or an inherently present elastic within the fabric as a percentage of the yarn, for example; lycra, spandex, etc. Preferably, the gatherable material comprises an embedded elasticised material.

Preferably the embedded elasticised material is embedded within the outer layer of the gift wrap. Preferably, the embedded elasticised material is stitched into the fabric of the outer layer during manufacture by the process of shirring. Preferably the embedded elasticised material is present at intervals along the gift wrap. Preferably the embedded elasticised material is present at intervals as parallel lines running across the gift wrap. Most preferably the embedded elasticised material is present at intervals of at least about 0.5 to 5cm apart.

Advantageously, using shirring to embed the elasticised material during manufacture allows any fabric to become elasticised and useful for the present embodiment of the invention.

Ideally, the gift wrap of the present invention including a gatherable material is formed into a substantially continuous shape which allows the wrap to be stretched around a gift then released to retract and hug the contours of the gift.

By continuous shape' it is meant that the gift wrap of the present invention including said elasticised material is formed into a tube or pouch or stocking type shape.

In an alternative embodiment, the gatherable material may comprise a drawstring.

Preferably, the drawstring comprises a tunnel and a pulling element.

Preferably, the tunnel is formed from two parallel lines of stitching creating a hollow opening. The tunnel may be stitched into any of the layers of any of the embodiments of the invention. Most preferably the tunnel is stitched into the outer layer of the gift wrap of the present invention.

Preferably, the pulling element is formed from any elongate material capable of being passed through the hollow opening of the tunnel such as, but not limited to; ribbon, cord, string, twine etc. When the gift wrap of the present invention contains a drawstring, the pulling element may simply be pulled from the tunnel to cause a gathering of the gift wrap, and secured by tying the ends of the pulling element, or by any other suitable securing means, for example; a toggle or button.

Preferably, the tunnel is stitched into the gift wrap of the present invention at a position operable to allow the gift to be enclosed by the gift wrap and secured by pulling the pulling element of the drawstring.

Most preferably, for the wrapping of substantially circular or spherical gifts, the tunnel is stitched into the gift wrap of the present invention in a circle at substantially the outer edge of the gift wrap such that when the pulling element of the drawstring is pulled, the gift wrap is gathered to provide a pouch which encloses the gift.

Most preferably, for the wrapping of substantially cubic, square, rectangular or rhombic gifts there are provided two tunnels which run substantially parallel at the outer edges of the gift wrap such that when the two pulling elements of the drawstrings are pulled, the gift wrap is gathered at both ends to provide a cracker shaped covering which encloses the gift.

Advantageously the drawstring allows a one step wrapping process which is easy and simple wherein the gift wrap itself contains the securing means such that no excess materials such as glue or adhesive tape are needed.

Alternatively, there may be provided two sheets of gift wrap according to the present invention which are overlaid and secured together in the centre such that the first

S

sheet and the second sheet may be rotated relative to one another. In this case, the drawstring is preferably located in the top most sheet of the gift wrap. This arrangement advantageously allows the user to create a double layered gift wrap wherein the arrangement of the two sheets is left to the creativity of the user.

The two sheets may be secured together by any means which allows rotation, for example an eyelet, or split pin.

The two sheets may be different designs or fabrics of gift wrap according the present invention such that a pleasing aesthetic appearance is created.

The two sheets may be provided presecured together, or alternatively the two sheets and the securing means may be provided as a kit of parts for the user to assemble.

Advantageously, the kit of parts allows the user to choose which two sheets of gift wrapareused.

In a further alternative embodiment, the gift wrap may comprise more than one gatherable material. For example, the gift wrap may contain an embedded elasticised material but also one or more drawstrings. In a particular preferred embodiment, when the gift wrap comprises a tube type continuous shape with embedded elasticised material, it may also comprise two drawstrings positioned substantially at either end of the tube, such that when the gift is positioned inside the tube of gift wrap, the excess material at the ends may be gatherable by said drawstrings to enclose the gift.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the gift wrap of the first aspect of the present invention on a roll.

Preferably, the gift wrap is wound around a central core to create a roll of gift wrap.

Preferably, the gift wrap comprises perforations indicating where the wrap should be torn off. Preferably the perforations are at equal intervals along the length of the wrap.

More preferably the perforations are provided as a grid over the wrap such that any size of wrap can be torn from the roll without creating waste. Most preferably the grid of perforations is provided in 10cm squares.

In a particularly preferred embodiment where any of the layers of any of the embodiments of the invention are formed from fabric, the fabric may be sealed at the perforation sites by: coating with a paste, perforating by a laser or heating to melt the fabric, coating with an adhesive, or coating with tape, so as to avoid unwanted tearing and fraying. Preferably the fabric is sealed by the use of an organic paste such as a sugar or starch based paste.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using the wrap according to a first aspect of the present invention comprising the following steps: a) placing the gift onto the gift wrap b) encasing the gift in the gift wrap c) optionally securing the gift wrap According to step (a) of the method according to the third aspect of the present invention, the gift is preferably placed onto the centre of the gift wrap.

According to step (b) of the method according to the third aspect of the present invention, encasing the gift in the gift wrap may comprise folding along vertices of the gift, or gathering the gift wrap.

Preferably, the gift wrap is folded along vertices when wrapping a substantially angular gift, for example a gift in the shape of a square, rectangle, rhombus or cuboid.

Preferably the gift wrap is gathered around the gift when wrapping a substantially rounded gift, for example a gift in the shape of a circle, oval, sphere, or egg.

Preferably, when wrapping a substantially angular gift as described above, the gift wrap contains a stiffening means as described in accordance with the first embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention. Preferably the gift wrap is folded perpendicular to the direction of the stiffening means such that the stiffening means is bent around the vertices of the gift to be wrapped. Most preferably, the stiffening means is reversibly deformed around the vertices of the gift to be wrapped, such that the wrapping holds its position until the receiver of the gift applies force to unfold the gift.

Preferably, when wrapping a substantially rounded gift as described above, the gift wrap contains a gatherable material. Preferably the gatherable material is gatherable by use of the drawstring as described above. Preferably the gift wrap is gathered around the gift to form a gathering, and then the pulling element of the drawstring is pulled from the tunnel to gather the gift wrap, thereby enclosing the gift in wrapping.

It is also envisaged that step (b) of the method according to the third aspect of the present invention may comprise encasing the gift in the gift wrap by stretching the gift wrap around the gift.

Preferably, stretching the gift wrap around the gift is used when wrapping any shaped gift, for example; angular, rounded, or a mixture of both.

Preferably, when wrapping said any shaped gift as described above, the gift wrap contains an elasticised material embedded within the gift wrap, as described in accordance with the gatherable material. Preferably the gift wrap is stretched by the user to fit over the gift, and then released such that the elastic material embedded or inherent within the gift wrap retracts to hug the contours of the gift.

Preferably, the gift wrap is provided as an enclosed shape such as a tube, pouch or stocking such that gift wrap can be stretched over the gift.

According to step (c) of the method according to the third aspect of the present invention, optionally securing the gift wrap may comprise; tying the ends of the pulling element which have been pulled from the tunnel of the drawstring, or using any suitable securing means such as, but not limited to; adhesive tape, glue, ribbon, cord, twine, string, toggles, buttons, poppers, pins, clips, hook and pile, wooden or plastic rings etc. to substantially close any openings in the gift wrapped gift.

Preferably, no securing means is used when the gift wrap comprising the stiffening substance is used because it is deformed to hold a certain shape without the need for any other materials.

Preferably, the securing means comprises tying the ends of the pulling element which have been pulled from the tunnel of the drawstring when gift wrap comprising the drawstring as a gatherable material is used.

Preferably, any of the suitable securing means listed above are used when gift wrap comprising the elasticised material as a gatherable material is used. Preferably the securing means used is a ribbon that may be tied around the gift wrapped gift.

Preferably the ribbon has provided upon it one or more buttons or other suitable anchoring device such that the ribbon may be secured to itself without tying.

Alternatively, in a particularly preferred embodiment, when the gift wrap comprising the elasticised material as a gatherable material is used, it may also comprise one or more drawstrings. In accordance with this embodiment, preferably the securing means used comprises tying the ends of the pulling element which have been pulled from the tunnel of the drawstring/s.

Alternatively, the securing means may be provided preformed into the gift wrap. For example; buttons and buttonholes may be inserted at corresponding predetermined positions upon the gift wrap ready to secure the wrapping.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a gift container formed from the gift wrap of the first aspect of the present invention.

By gift container' it is meant any packaging used to carry or conceal gifts, for example; bags, boxes, pouches, crackers, sleeves, folders, envelopes, cases etc. Preferably, the openings of said gift containers are operable to be closed by a securing means, examples of such securing means are as follows; a drawstring, ribbon, twine, cord, string, buttons, hook and pile, clips, poppers, pins etc. Preferably, the gift container is provided with a securing means preformed into it.

Preferably, the gift container comprises some form of handle for carrying the gift.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of parts comprising one or more sheets of the gift wrap of the first aspect of the present invention, and securing means as described in the third aspect of the present invention.

Optionally, the kit of parts may further comprise instructions according to the method of the third aspect of the present invention.

Preferably, the kit of parts may comprise a number of different securing means and number of different sheets of gift wrap such that the user can select and customise their gift wrap.

Advantageously, the present invention allows the use of aesthetically pleasing gift wrap which is resistant to tearing with a higher strength than traditional paper gift wraps and is waterproof. The gift wrap is produced from eco-friendly sources, in an environmentally friendly way, requires the minimal amount of effort to wrap gifts, and produces minimal waste. Furthermore, the gift wrap may be customised by the user and may be re-used up to 50 times, and given as a gift in its own right.

All of the features described herein may be combined with any of the above aspects, in any combination.

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which:

Description of the Figures

Figure 1 a shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of the gift wrap according to the present invention; Figure lb shows a schematic perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the gift wrap according to the present invention.

Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the gift wrap of the present invention; Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a third embodiment of the gift wrap of the present invention; Figure 4 shows a simplistic view of a foruth embodiment of the gift wrap of the present invention; and Figure 5 shows a simplistic view of the gift wrap of the present invention on a roll.

Figure 1 a shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of the gift wrap of the present invention. The gift wrap 102, is shown to comprise stiffening means 104, in the form of embedded metal wires or other nonelastic deformable material that has been pushed through the fabric of the outer layer 108 of the gift wrap. The stiffening means 104 may be pushed through the gift wrap 102 such that it weaves in and out of the gift wrap 102 in wide gaps (top line) or narrow gaps (bottom line). The stiffening means 104 are orientated in generally parallel lines running across the gift wrap at an interval 106; in this case the interval 106 is appropriate to the gauge of the wire. The embedded stiffening means 104 allows the gift wrap 102 to be folded around a gift and maintain its deformed shape without the need for any fixatives such as tape, glue or ties.

Figure lb shows a schematic perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the gift wrap of the present invention. Gift wrap 102 is shown comprising stiffening means 104 at defined intervals 106. A cut away portion is shown in the bottom right hand corner of the gift wrap 102 where the outer layer 108 has been turned back to reveal an inner surface and a waterproof intermediate layer 109. The waterproof intermediate layer 109 may be formed from a plastic material and sits between the outer layer 108 and an optional inner layer (not shown) of the gift wrap 102. This allows the gift within to be protected from any moisture which would otherwise easily seep through the outer layer 108 of the gift wrap 102, especially when said gift wrap is formed from fabric. In other embodiments of the invention not shown in this figure, the waterproofing may be afforded by a spray coating applied to the outer layer of the gift wrap 102.

Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the gift wrap according to the present invention. The gift wrap 202 is shown to comprise gathering means 210 in the form of two drawstrings 214 at either end of the gift wrap 202. The drawstrings are each composed of a stitched tunnel 212 in the outer layer 208 of the gift wrap 202 containing a pulling element 216 within the tunnel 212. In use, the gift will be placed in substantially the centre of the gift wrap 202 and the gift wrap rolled around the gift, the pulling elements 216 of the drawstrings will then be pulled from the tunnels 212 causing a niching effect of the gift wrap 202 at the drawstrings to conceal and enclose the gift. The pulling elements 216 can then be tied to secure the gift wrap 202. The stitching 216 provided at the upper and lower sides of the gift wrap 202 is used as a means of securing the various layers (outer 208 and/or inner and/or intermediate waterproof) of the gift wrap 202 together.

Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a third embodiment of the gift wrap according the present invention. Gift wrap 302 is shown to comprise a gathering means 310 in the form of a single circular drawstring 314 encompassing the centre portion of the gift wrap 302. The drawstring is composed of a stitched tunnel 312 in the outer layer 308 of the gift wrap 302 containing a pulling element 316 within the tunnel 312. In use, the gift will be placed in substantially the centre of the gift wrap 302 and the gift wrap 302 brought upwards around the gift, the pulling element 316 can then be pulled from the tunnel 312 causing a ruching effect of the gift wrap 302 at the drawstring to conceal and enclose the gift in a pouch type arrangement. The pulling element 316 can then be tied to secure the gift wrap 302.

Also shown in figure 3 is a further sheet of the gift wrap 320 according to the present invention positioned below the gift wrap 302. In use the gathering means 310 is preferably located within the outer sheet of gift wrap 302 and within the outer layer 308 of said outer sheet 302. The further sheet 320 may be secured to the outer sheet 302 by a central fixing 322 such as a split pin or eyelet which allows the two sheets of gift wrap to be rotatable relative to one another as shown by arrow A. This has the advantage of allowing the user to have creativity in the arrangement of the sheets and in choosing the two sheets to be layered.

Figure 4 shows a simplistic view of a fourth embodiment of the gift wrap of the present invention. The gift wrap 402 is shown in position wrapping a gift. The gift wrap 402 comprises a gathering means 410 in the form of an embedded elasticised material 424, which has been embedded within the fabric of the outer layer 408 of the gift wrap 402 during manufacture by the process of shirring. The elasticised material 424 may comprise any suitable elastic means including elastic cord or rubber bands etc. which have been embedded into the fabric at intervals 406. The gift wrap 402 with the embedded elasticised material 424 has then been provided as an elongated continuous tube. In order to wrap the gift, the tube has been stretched and placed around the gift then released such that the elasticized material 424 has retracted and now hugs the contours of the gift. In this embodiment shown, the excess gift wrap 402 at the each of the ends of the gift comprises a drawstring 414 wherein the pulling element 416 has been pulled from the tunnel 412 and tied to secure the ends in a cracker type shape. Alternative embodiments may use ties or any other means to secure the excess ends of the gift wrap 102.

Figure 5 shows the gift wrap 502 as described in a second aspect of the present invention. The gift wrap 502 is provided on a roll 526 wherein the gift wrap is produced as a continuous reel of wrap that may be wound around a central core 528 repeatedly to enable large amounts of the gift wrap 402 to be stored and sold. The gift wrap 502 is provided with perforations 530 at lengthways intervals along the reel indicating where the gift wrap 502 may be easily torn to give a single sheet. The gift wrap 502 may also comprise lateral perforations 532 at intervals to allow specific sizes of gift wrap 502 to be torn off to match certain gift sizes, and thereby reduce waste. The perforations 530, 532 are both surrounded by a sealing means 534. The sealing means 534 in this case comprises a starch based paste, but can be melted fabric from the laser cutting perforations, melted fabric from heat sealing, or tape. The sealing means 534 stops the fabric of the gift wrap 502 from tearing or fraying when being perforated or pulled from the roll.

Figure 6 shows the gift tag 636 as described for use with the gift wrap 602 of the present invention. Figure Ga shows a close up of the gift tag 636 wherein the gift tag 636 is made from the gift wrap 602 of the present invention. The gift tag 636 is formed from two or more sections of the gift wrap 602 attached together to form a back portion 638 and a front portion 640 with optional side portions 642. The portions of the tag 636 are preferably assembled by means of adhesive, heat sealing, zips, tacks, pins, poppers, clips stitching or any other suitable means. Preferably said portions are only attached at the edges such that the assembled tag 636 creates a pouch.

Optionally the tag 636 may comprise a front viewing window 344 of transparent material such that an inner insert 648 can be viewed from outside. Optionally the tag 636 may comprise a means for attaching the tag 636 to the gift wrap 602 once the gift is wrapped, such as a tie 646 as shown in this embodiment. Alternatively, as shown in figure 6b, the tag 636 may be preformed into the gift wrap 602.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

<claim-text>CLAIMS; 1. A wrap for a gift, the wrap comprising an outer layer and a waterproofing means.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. A wrap according to claim 1, wherein the gift wrap comprises a further inner layer.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. A wrap according to claim 2, wherein the inner layer is positioned towards the inside surface of the gift wrap during wrapping.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. A wrap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer layer is positioned towards the outside surface of the gift wrap in use.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. A wrap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer and inner layers are each independently formed from one or more of the following fabrics: organza, felt, canvas, cotton, polyester, cord, denim, silk, satin, hemp, or any other decorative fabric. (4</claim-text> <claim-text>6. A wrap according to claims, wherein the outer and inner layers are formed from 0 substantially the same fabric.</claim-text> <claim-text>0) 7. A wrap according to claims 5 or 6, wherein one or more of the outer and inner layers are formed from ecologically friendly fabrics.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. A wrap according to claim 7, wherein the outer and inner layers are formed from at least 45% recycled polyester.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. A wrap according to claims 5 toS, wherein the outer and/or inner layers of fabric may be printed on one or more face thereof with decorative indicia.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. A wrap according to claim 9, wherein the printed indicia is printed with eco-friendly dyes and by a sustainable method.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. A wrap according to claims 9 and 10, wherein the outer layer is printed and the inner layer is left blank as the gift wrap lining.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. A wrap according to any preceding claim, wherein the waterproofing means comprises a coating.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. A wrap according to claim 12, wherein the coating is applied to the outer layer and/or the inner layer of the gift wrap.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. A wrap according to claims 12 and 13, wherein the coating is applied to an outer face of the outer layer of the gift wrap. tRTM)</claim-text> <claim-text>15. A wrap according to claims 12 to 14, wherein the coating is selected from: Teflon, NikWax (RIM) (RIM) AquaTex, Fabsil. (RIM) 16. A wrap according to claims 12 to 15, wherein the coating is sprayable onto the fabric surface.17. A wrap according to claims ito 11, wherein the waterproofing means comprises a waterproof layer that is plastic. (418. A wrap according to claim 17, wherein the plastic layer is positioned on the inside or outside o surface of the outer layer.19. A wrap according to claim 18, wherein the plastic layer is positioned on the inside surface of 1" the outer layer.20. A wrap according to claims ito 11, wherein the waterproofing means comprises an intermediate waterproof layer positioned between the outer layer and the optional inner layer of the gift wrap.21. A wrap according to claim 20, wherein the intermediate waterproof layer is formed from a plastic material.22. A wrap according to claims 17 to 21, wherein the waterproof layer is a plastic selected from: polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene or any other substantially strong yet flexible plastic.23. A wrap according to claim 22, wherein the plastic is a recycled or upcycled plastic material and/or a biodegradable plastic material selected from: polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, polybutylene succinate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose acetate, polyanhydride, or other plastics derived from a natural source such as cellulose.24. A wrap according to any preceding claim, wherein the gift wrap optionally comprises a stain proof coating.25. A wrap according to claims ito 16 and 24, wherein the waterproof coating is also stain proof such that the same coating performs both functions simultaneously.26. A wrap according to claims 24 and 25, wherein the stain proof coating is selected from (RIM) Teflon or Scotchg' ard. RTM) 27. A wrap according to claims 24-26, wherein the said stainproofing coating is sprayable onto the fabric surface.28. A wrap according to claims 24-27, wherein the stainproof coating is ecologically friendly.29. A wrap according to any preceding claim, wherein the multiple layers of the gift wrap are stitched together.30. A wrap according to any preceding claim, wherein the gift wrap is provided with a gift tag. 0)31. A wrap according to claim 30, wherein the gift tag is preformed into the fabric of the gift wrap.32. A wrap according to claim 30, wherein the gift tag is located upon the outer layer of the gift wrap 33. A wrap according to claims 30 to 32, wherein the gift tag is formed from fabric, which is the same fabric as the outer layer upon which it is to be attached.34. A wrap according to claims 30 to 33, wherein the gift tag comprises a pocket or pouch which has a substantially transparent viewing window.35. A wrap according to any preceding claim, wherein the gift wrap is provided with stiffening means which are embedded within any of the layers or which is a treatment applied to the fabric layer/layers of the gift wrap.36. A wrap according to claim 35, wherein the embedded stiffening means is formed from a nonelastic deformable material.37. A wrap according to claim 35, wherein the embedded stiffening means comprises one or more wires.38. A wrap according to claim 35. wherein the treatment stiffening means is formed from an iron-in or sprayable fabric treatment.39. A wrap according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the stiffening means is woven into the fabric of the outer layer during manufacture such that it is present throughout the fabric of the outer layer of the gift wrap.40. A wrap according to any one of claims 35 to 38 and 39, wherein the stiffening means is present at intervals along the gift wrap or as a grid within the gift wrap. ro 41. A wrap according to claim 40, wherein the stiffening means is present at intervals of 1 between about 0.5cm and 10cm apart. 0)42. A wrap according to any preceding claim, wherein the gift wrap is provided with a gatherable material.43. A wrap according to claim 42, wherein the gatherable material comprises an embedded elasticised material.44. A wrap according to claim 43, wherein the embedded elasticised material is stitched into the fabric of the outer layer.45. A wrap according to claim 44, wherein the embedded elasticised material is present at intervals of at least about 0.5 to 5cm apart.46. A wrap according to claim 42, wherein the gatherable material comprises a drawstring.47. A wrap according to claim 46, wherein the drawstring comprises a tunnel and a pulling element.48. A wrap according to claim 47, wherein the tunnel is formed from two parallel lines of stitching creating a hollow opening in the outer layer of the gift wrap.49. A wrap according to claims 46 and 47, wherein the pulling element is formed from any elongate material capable of being passed through the hollow opening of the tunnel.50. A wrap according to claims 47 to 49, wherein the tunnel is stitched into the gift wrap in a circle, or there are two tunnels which run substantially parallel at the outer edges of the gift wrap.51. A roll comprising the wrap of any of the preceding claims.52. A roll according to claim 51, wherein the gift wrap is wound around a central core to create a roll of gift wrap. (453. A roll according to claim 52, wherein the gift wrap comprises perforations indicating where o the wrap should be torn off.54. A roll according to claim 53, wherein the perforations are provided as a grid over the wrap.55. A roll according to claim 54, wherein the grid of perforations is provided in 10cm squares.56. A method of using the wrap according to claims ito 50 comprising the following steps: a) placing a gift onto the gift wrap b) encasing the gift in the gift wrap c) securing the gift wrap 57. A method according to claim 56, wherein the gift is placed onto the centre of the gift wrap.58. A method according to claims 56 and 57, wherein encasing the gift in the gift wrap comprises folding along vertices of the gift, or gathering the gift wrap.59. A method according to claims 56 to 58, wherein the gift wrap is reversibly deformed around the vertices of the gift to be wrapped.60. A method according to claims 56 to 58, wherein the gift wrap is gathered around the gift to form a gathering, and then a pulling element of a drawstring is pulled from a tunnel to gather the gift wrap.61. A method according to claims 56 and 57, wherein step (b) comprises encasing the gift in the gift wrap by stretching the gift wrap around the gift.62. A method according to claims 56 to 61, wherein securing the gift wrap comprises any of the following: tying the ends of a pulling element which have been pulled from a tunnel of a drawstring, or using any suitable securing means including: adhesive tape) glue, ribbon, cord, twine, string, toggles, buttons, poppers, pins, clips) hook and pile, wooden or plastic rings.63. A method according to claim 62, wherein securing the securing means comprises tying the ends of a pulling element which have been pulled from a tunnel of a drawstring. ro 64. A gift container formed from the gift wrap of any of claims 1-50.Q) 65. A gift container as claimed in claim 64, wherein the opening of said gift container is operable to be closed by a securing means selected from: a drawstring, ribbon, twine, cord, string, buttons, hook and pile, clips, poppers, or pins.66. A gift container as claimed in claim 65, wherein the gift container is provided with a securing means preformed into it.67. A gift container as claimed in claims 64 to 66 comprising a handle.68. A kit of parts comprising one or more sheets of the gift wrap as claimed in claims 1-50 and securing means.69. A kit of parts as claimed in claim 68 comprising a number of different securing means and number of different sheets of gift wrap.70. A wrap substantially as described herein with reference to the description and drawings.71. A roll substantially as described herein with reference to the description and drawings.72. A gift container substantially as described herein with reference to the description and drawings. (4 r 0)</claim-text>