US20150240403A1

US20150240403A1 - Guidance clamp for sewing

Info

Publication number: US20150240403A1
Application number: US14/630,003
Authority: US
Inventors: Hayden Hudson WOOD
Original assignee: SEW PERFECT LLC
Current assignee: SEW PERFECT LLC
Priority date: 2014-02-25
Filing date: 2015-02-24
Publication date: 2015-08-27

Abstract

A guidance clamp for sewing includes a first half, a second half, and a central fold or hinge between the first and second halves and hingedly interconnecting the first and second halves to one another. In one form, at least one magnetic coupling element is provided with each half such that the halves can be coupled together. Typically, one or more fabrics can be clamped between the first and second halves.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/944,443 filed Feb. 25, 2014, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to the field of textiles and assembling or constructing articles from textiles, and more particularly to a method and apparatus for clamping fabric together while providing guidance when sewing the fabric together.

BACKGROUND

Sewing fabric together can be a long and tedious process. Commonly, fabric is first pinned together with a plurality of needles prior to sewing, which ensures that the fabric does not move relative to another fabric when sewing the fabric together. Further, sewing a straight line or according to a particular pattern can be relatively hard, especially for the novice sewer. Accordingly, it has been found that needs exists for improved ways to hold fabric together. It is to the provision of a sewing guidance clamp meeting these and other needs that the present invention is primarily directed.

SUMMARY

In example embodiments, the present invention provides a guidance clamp for clamping one or more textiles together. In one example form, the guidance clamp having one or more textiles clamped therebetween is provided for guiding the cutting of the one or more textiles therebetween, and in another example form the guidance clamp is provided for guiding the sewing of the one or more textile therebetween.
In one aspect, the invention relates to a magnetic guidance clamp including a first half, a second half, and a hinge disposed between the first and second halves for allowing movement of the halves relative to one another. The first half includes at least one magnetic coupling element and the second half includes at least one magnetic coupling element. In example forms, movement of one of the halves proximal to the other half causes magnetic attraction between the magnetic coupling elements and through an intermediate material. The magnetic coupling elements have a sufficient magnetic attractive force to hold the first and second halves together and retain the intermediate material therebetween while sewing through the intermediate material.
In another aspect, the invention relates to a guidance clamp for cutting and/or sewing including a first half, a second half, and a hinge. The hinge is formed between the first half and second half such that the first half and second half can move relative to one another between an open, unfolded configuration and a closed, folded configuration. In the open, unfolded configuration the first and second halves are generally adjacent one another without any contact therebetween. In the closed, folded configuration the first and second halves are generally positioned atop each other such that an intermediate material is capable of being clamped therebetween.
In example forms, the intermediate material includes one or more fabrics. According to one form, a clamping force is provided by at least one hand of a user grasping the first and second halves and pressing them together, thereby clamping the intermediate material between the first and second halves. According to another form, the clamping force is provided by magnetic attraction between the first and second halves such that the first half includes at least one magnetic coupling element and the second half includes at least one magnetic coupling element or at least one magnetically attracted material. Preferably, the at least one magnetic coupling element of the first half and the at least one magnetic coupling element or magnetically attracted material of the second half comprise a sufficient magnetic attractive force to hold the first and second halves together and retain the intermediate material therebetween. According to another form, the clamping force is provided by at least one spring or movable clamp. In example forms, the at least one spring or movable clamp is configured for movement between an open, unclamped configuration and a closed, clamped configuration. In one example form, the at least one spring or movable clamp is movably mounted to at least one of the halves of the guidance clamps for movement between the open, unclamped configuration and the closed, clamped configuration, and whereby in the open, unclamped configuration the first and second halves are at least spaced apart such that the intermediate material can be positioned therebetween, and wherein in the closed, clamped configuration the first and second halves are forced together such that the intermediate material is clamped therebetween.
In still another aspect, the invention relates to a method of releasably clamping one or more pieces of fabric together including providing a magnetic clamp including a first half having at least one magnetic coupling element and a second half having at least one magnetic coupling element; providing one or more pieces of fabric; positioning at least a portion of the one or more pieces of fabric between the first and second halves; and closing the magnetic clamp such that the magnetic coupling elements attract to one another and releasably couple the one or more pieces of fabric between the first and second halves.
These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of the invention are exemplary and explanatory of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a plurality of magnetic guidance clamps according to example embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of a magnetic guidance clamp according to an example embodiment of the present invention, showing the magnetic guidance clamp in an open, unclamped configuration.

FIG. 2B is a top plan view of the magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 2A, showing the magnetic guidance clamp in a closed, clamped configuration wherein a presser foot of a sewing machine is being guided along a portion thereof.

FIG. 2C shows an end view of the magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 2B substantially folded and just prior to the magnetic coupling elements thereof attracting together.

FIG. 2D shows the end view of the magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 2B, showing the magnetic coupling elements coupled together and clamping the fabric therebetween.

FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of one of the plurality of magnetic guidance clamps of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3B shows a plurality of the magnetic guidance clamps of FIG. 3A in the open, unclamped configuration, and showing each of the clamps having a different width.

FIG. 4A is a top plan view of a magnetic guidance clamp according to another example embodiment of the present invention, showing the magnetic guidance clamp in an open, unclamped configuration.

FIG. 4B is a top plan view of the magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 4A in a closed, clamped configuration and clamping a one or more fabrics therebetween.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are top plan views of a magnetic guidance clamp according to another example embodiment of the present invention, showing the magnetic guidance clamp in an open, unclamped configuration (FIG. 5A) and a closed, clamped configuration (FIG. 5B).

FIG. 6A is a top plan view of a magnetic guidance clamp according to another example embodiment of the present invention, showing the magnetic guidance clamp in an open, unclamped configuration.

FIG. 6B is a top plan view of the magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 6A in a closed, clamped configuration and clamping a one or more fabrics therebetween.

FIGS. 6C-D show the magnetic guidance clamp of FIGS. 6A-B clamping one or more fabrics therebetween.

FIG. 7A shows a perspective view of a magnetic guidance clamp according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7B is a top plan view of a magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 7A, showing the magnetic guidance clamp in an open, unclamped configuration.

FIG. 7C is a top plan view of the magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 7B in a closed, clamped configuration and clamping a one or more fabrics therebetween.

FIGS. 8A-D show the magnetic guidance clamp of FIGS. 7A-C being used to releasably clamp a fabric to be sewn according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of a magnetic guidance clamp in a closed, clamped configuration wherein one or more fabrics are clamped therebetween.

FIG. 9B shows a top plan view of the magnetic guidance clamp of FIG. 9A in an open, unclamped configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the invention taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.
Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.
With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIGS. 1-9B show a plurality of magnetic guidance clamps or holders according to example embodiments of the present invention. In example forms, the magnetic guidance clamps preferably removably clamp or releasably couple to one or more pieces of fabric or other textile material F to help facilitate the cutting and/or sewing thereof. Preferably, the magnetic guidance clamps of the present invention generally comprise a first half and a second half that are generally connected by a fold or hinge-like crease. In one form, the first and second halves are generally evenly divided and substantially symmetrical such that at least one magnetic coupling element is coupled to each half, and wherein the halves are magnetically attracted to one another when folded along the crease to provide for removably coupling one or more pieces of fabric F therebetween. Thus, as will be described below, the guidance clamps provide a removable yet generally stable fastener to allow portions of the guidance clamp to act as a guide for stitching a seam and/or for cutting a particular shape or pattern in the fabric. Optionally, the guidance clamps can be configured to act as a temporary fastener or notch-like indicator, as will be described below.
FIG. 1 shows a plurality of magnetic guidance clamps including a seam guidance clamp 10, an arm or neck guidance clamp 50, a notch clamp 100, and a pocket guidance clamp 150. According to one example form, the clamps 10, 50, 100, 150 generally comprise at least two magnetic coupling elements, for example wherein a first magnetic coupling element is provided on a first half of the clamp 10, 50, 100, 150 and a second magnetic coupling element is provided on a second half of the clamp 10, 50, 100, 150. As such, the clamps 10, 50, 100, 150 are configured to removably couple to one or more pieces of fabric F wherein the one or more piece of fabric are generally sandwiched between the first and second halves.
FIGS. 2A-3B show the seam guidance clamp 10 in greater detail. As depicted, the seam guidance clamp 10 is generally box-like or rectangular in shape and comprises a length L and a width W. Preferably, the length L and width W can be chosen as desired. For example, according to some forms the length L of the guidance clamp 10 can be formed to a specified length such that it can be used as a ruler or measurement device. Thus, the fabric that is eventually be clamped by the clamp 10 can be measured with the clamp before clamping it. According to one form, the length may be between about 2 inches to about 64 inches, more preferably between about 6 inches to about 18 inches. Optionally, indicia or other text, numbers or characters may be provided on at least a portion of the clamp 10, for example, to indicate the length L of the clamp 10. Further optionally, hash marks or lines may be provided along the length for example a line between about every 0.25 to 0.0625 of an inch, for example, similar to a ruler or yard stick.
In one example form, the guidance clamp 10 generally comprises a first half 12, a second half 14 and a generally central fold or hinge-like crease 16 between the first and second halves and hingedly interconnecting the first and second halves to one another. Preferably, the first half 12 comprises at least one magnetic coupling element 20 and the second half 14 comprises at least one magnetic coupling element 22. More preferably, the first half 12 comprises a first edge 24 and the second half 14 comprises a second edge 26, which provide a substantially straight edge to act as a guide for sewing or stitching a seam and/or cutting therealong. As such, with one or more pieces of fabric laying atop the second half 14, the first half 12 can fold atop the fabric F and the second half 14 such that the at least one magnetic coupling element 20 of the first half 12 releasably couples to the at least one magnetic coupling element 22 of the second half 14 despite the fabric F being sandwiched therebetween (see FIGS. 2B-D). The guidance clamp 10 is then held in place to allow a user to sew a plurality of stitches in the fabric F and/or cutting the fabric F by using the clamp 10 as a guide. In one example form, the width W of the guidance clamp 10 is configured to provide for a plurality of seam allowances SA, for example the distance measured between the edge of the fabric F and the stitch S. In example forms, the width W can be configured for a seam allowance SA of about ⅜″, more preferably about ½″, and more preferably about ⅝″. Optionally, other widths W can be chosen to provide for seam allowances SA of other sizes (see FIG. 3B).
The magnetic coupling elements 20, 22 can be arranged in various configurations and can be in a plurality of forms. In one form, the magnetic coupling elements 20, 22 are generally elongate magnetic strips formed along the edges 24, 26 of the first and second halves 12, 14, respectively. The magnetic strips can be glued to the first and second halves or the strips can be formed therewith, for example by molding, heat bonding, etc. Optionally, other forms of magnetic coupling elements and/or other modes of attaching the magnetic coupling elements to the first and second halves can be utilized. For example, the magnetic coupling elements 20, 22 can comprise permanent magnets of opposite polarity, or alternatively can comprise one magnet and one magnetically attracted element such as an iron or other ferrous material arranged to releasably engage the magnet by magnetic attraction. Preferably, the magnets are oriented such that the opposite poles face one another (e.g., (+) pole of magnet 20 facing (−) pole of magnet 22) to cause attraction between the magnetic coupling elements 20, 22 (see FIG. 3C). Optionally, the polarities of magnets installed on the respective halves can be oriented to attract and couple in a desired or correct clamping configuration, and to repel or prevent coupling in an incorrect clamping configuration. In one example form, the magnetic coupling elements are in the form of disc-like elements that are spaced along the length each half 12, 14. Optionally, one or more openings or recesses can be formed in the halves 12, 14 to receive the magnetic coupling elements such that lay generally flush with the inner and outer surfaces of each half 12, 14. Preferably, the magnets are positioned in corresponding locations on the first and second halves 12, 14 such that they align and are magnetically attracted through the fabric F when the clamp 10 is in the closed position (see FIG. 2D). Preferably, one or more pieces of fabric F can be releasably coupled between the clamp 10 in the closed position.
In one example form, the guidance clamp 10 is generally configured for sewing with a sewing machine or serger such that the presser foot PF can be guided along the edge 24 of the clamp 10, which provides a substantially straight and linear stitch S along the fabric F. In example forms, the presser foot is in the form of a zipper foot. Optionally, the guide 10 can be configured to be used with other types of presser foots. In another example form, one or more of the magnetic coupling elements 20, 22 are configured for magnetically attracting to a portion of the sewing machine or serger that is generally proximal a plate below the presser foot such that the guide 10 remains substantially stable as the stitching occurs. Preferably, the magnetic coupling elements 20, 22 are selected to provide a sufficient force for releasably coupling the fabric F therebetween and additionally provide a slight amount of attraction to the plate proximal the presser foot. Thus, the sewing process is substantially easier wherein the edge of the guide 10 can move along the presser foot PF to create a substantially straight and linear stitch S in the fabric F and one or more of the magnetic coupling elements 20, 22 generally retain the clamp 10 and the fabric F sandwiched therebetween below the presser foot.
FIGS. 3A-B show additional examples of the seam guidance clamp 10. As depicted, the first and second halves 12, 14 are generally formed from a resilient and flexible material. Generally, the first half 12 comprises a first magnetic coupling element and the second half comprises a second magnetic coupling element. Optionally, one of the magnetic coupling elements can be replaced with a magnetically attracted material. As described above, the width W of the clamp 10 can be configured for any seam allowance SA as desired. As depicted in FIG. 3B, the clamp 10 can have a seam allowance SA of about ⅜″, more preferably about ½″, and more preferably about ⅝″ (moving from right to left).
FIGS. 4A-B show a neck or arm guidance clamp 50 in greater detail. As depicted, the use and function of the clamp 50 is substantially similar to the clamp 10 as described above, for example wherein one or more pieces of fabric can be sandwiched between a first and second half 52, 54 of the clamp 50 and magnetic coupling elements 62 provided thereon releasably couple therewith to releasably secure the fabric therebetween. In one example form, the guidance clamp 50 is preferably provided for acting as a guide to cut a neck or arm hole, for example for an article of clothing. Optionally, the clamp can be used as desired for both stitching a seam along an outer periphery portion thereof and/or acting as a guide to cut portions thereof. Generally, the guide 50 is substantially round and comprises the first half 52 and the second half 54 generally divided by a central fold or crease-like hinge 56. Preferably, each half 52, 54 comprises at least one magnetic coupling element 62. As depicted, each half 52, 54 comprises two magnetic coupling elements 62. Preferably, each half 52, 54 comprises an edge 64, 66 along an outer periphery thereof to assist the user in guidance. Optionally, each half 52, 54 comprises three or more magnetic coupling elements 62 (see FIGS. 5A-B).
FIGS. 6A-B show a notch guidance clamp 100 in greater detail. As depicted, the use and function of the clamp 100 is substantially similar to the clamp 10 as described above, for example wherein one or more pieces of fabric F can be sandwiched between a first and second half 112, 114 of the clamp 100 and magnetic coupling elements 120, 122 provided thereon releasably couple together to releasably secure the fabric therebetween. In one example form, the notch clamp 100 is preferably provided for acting as a guide to match up different pieces of fabric F of a pattern that are to be sewn together. Optionally, the clamp can be used as desired for both stitching a seam along an outer periphery portion thereof and/or acting as a guide to cut portions thereof. Generally, the guide 100 is substantially diamond-shaped and comprises the first half 112 and the second half 114 generally divided by a central fold or crease-like hinge 116. Preferably, each half 112, 114 comprises at least one magnetic coupling element 120, 122. In preferred embodiments, the notch clamp 100 is used to ensure particular portions of fabric remain engaged together, for example when sewing a pattern together. In example forms, each half 112, 114 comprises an edge 124, 126 along an outer periphery thereof. FIGS. 6C-D show additional embodiments of the guide 100. In one example form, as shown in FIG. 6D, the guide 100 can couple to one or more additional guides 100. As such, a guide 100 releasably coupled to a fabric F can releasably couple to another guide 100 that is releasably coupled to another fabric F, thus ensuring that the fabrics do not move relative to one another.
FIGS. 7A-C show a pocket guidance clamp 150 in greater detail. As depicted, the use and function of the clamp 150 is substantially similar to the clamp 10 as described above, for example wherein one or more pieces of fabric F can be sandwiched between a first and second half 152, 154 of the clamp 150 and magnetic coupling elements 160, 162 provided thereon releasably couple together to releasably secure the fabric therebetween. In one example form, the pocket clamp 150 is preferably provided for stitching a seam along an outer periphery portion and/or acting as a guide to cut portions of the fabric that is releasably engaged between the halves 152, 154. Generally, the guide 150 is substantially rectangular-shaped having a pair of radiused corners and comprises the first half 152 and the second half 154 generally divided by a central fold or crease-like hinge 156. Preferably, each half 152, 154 comprises at least one magnetic coupling element 160, 162. In preferred embodiments, the pocket clamp 150 is used to reliably clamp pieces of fabric together while providing a pattern to form a pocket, for example to be assembled with a pair of trousers. FIGS. 8A-D show additional examples of the pocket clamp 150 for releasably clamping a fabric F therebetween such that a pocket can be formed. For example, FIG. 8A shows a user laying a piece of fabric F atop the clamp 150 that is in an open, unclamped configuration. FIG. 8B shows the clamp 150 in the closed, clamped configuration and clamping the fabric F between the two halves 152, 154. Optionally, a directional arrow or other indicator may be provided on at least one of the halves to assist a user in the movement/path/guidance of the presser foot or cutting. FIG. 8C shows the presser foot PF of the sewing machine being guided along an edge 164, 166 portion thereof. FIG. 8D shows the clamp 150 in an open, unclamped configuration and showing the fabric F having a plurality of stitches S formed therein.
FIGS. 9A-B show a seam guide clamp 200 according to another example embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, each half comprises an array of generally disc-like magnetic coupling elements formed therein. For example, as depicted the first and second halves 212, 214 each comprise an array of magnetic coupling elements 220 that are generally flush with the outer surfaces of the halves 212, 214. Preferably, the first and second halves 212, 214 are generally foldable relative to one another by a generally central hinge 216 that extends along the length of the halves 212, 214. In one example form, the hinge 216 is substantially flexible compared to the generally rigid halves 212, 214. Preferably, the hinge 216 can be integral with the halves 212, 214 or the hinge 216 can be assembled to the halves 212, 214, for example wherein the halves are generally separate until the hinge 216 is secured therebetween. In one example form, the length L of the halves is about 12″ inches. Optionally, other lengths may be chosen as desired.
In example embodiments, the clamps 10, 50, 100, 150, 200 of the present invention can be formed from a plurality of materials including composites, woods, leathers, metals, plastics, natural materials, synthetic materials, or combinations thereof. Generally, the clamps are preferably configured to provide both a sufficient amount of rigidity and a sufficient amount of flexibility. Optionally, the clamps can be configured to provide more or less rigidity or flexibility. In one form, the clamps comprise a substantially smooth outer surface comprising a substantially minimal coefficient of friction. Preferably, the minimal coefficient of friction benefits the clamp in easily sliding across the plate when sewing to provide stitching in the fabric F. Optionally, the inner surfaces of the halves may be configured to comprise a greater coefficient of friction than the outer surfaces, for example, to facilitate eliminating movement of the fabric F when clamped between the two halves. In some forms, the clamps can be molded with a plastic or other polymeric or synthetic material, for example, by use with a plastic injection molding machine. Optionally, the clamps can be constructed as desired.
In additional example embodiments, the clamps 10, 50, 100, 150, 200 of the present invention can preferably be sized, shaped and configured as desired to benefit the user in guidance when sewing one or more fabrics F together and/or for cutting the fabric F. Preferably, the clamps can be shaped and sized to accommodate a particular pattern or other shape that may be desirable to a user. Preferably, the clamps comprise a first half and a second half that a generally divided or foldable relative to the other by a fold, hinge or other generally centrally-positioned crease. Preferably, the first half comprises at least one magnetic coupling element and the second half comprises at least one magnetic coupling element. In example forms, the magnetic coupling elements are in the form of permanent magnets of opposite polarity (orientation so polarities are opposed when closed to engage/attract), or alternatively can comprise one magnet and one magnetically attracted element such as an iron or other ferrous material arranged to releasably engage the magnet by magnetic attraction. Preferably, the magnetic coupling elements can be in a plurality of various sizes, shapes and configurations, and can preferably be formed or otherwise coupled on the halves of the clamps as desired. Optionally, as described above, one of the halves is provided with at least one magnetic coupling element and the other one of the halves is provided with a magnetically attracted material. According to one form, one of the halves is formed from a magnetically attracted material or element and the other one of the halves (formed from any desired material) comprises at least one magnetic coupling element. Further optional, one of the halves is formed from a magnetically attracted material and the other one of the halves is formed from a magnetic coupling element.
Optionally, other clamps or other techniques may be provided with the clamps of the presently claimed invention. For example, according to another example embodiment, the halves of the clamp do not comprise any magnetic coupling elements, and the halves clamp one or more pieces of fabric therebetween by grasping and pressing the halves together by at least one hand of a user. Further optionally, other springs, clamps, movable clamps, fasteners, holders, engagement mechanisms, binder clips, or other clamp-like members may be provided for clamping with the halves together such that the halves clamp the one or more fabrics therebetween. In one form, at least one of the halves comprises a movable clamp movably or slidably mounted thereto, which is capable of moving relative to the at least one half such that the clamp can either allow the halves to be opened or at least become spaced apart to receive the one or more fabrics or cause the halves to be pressed against one another, for example, to clamp the one or more fabrics therebetween. Optionally, the clamp or spring-like member may be entirely separable from the clamp such that the clamp is entirely disengaged from the halves to provide for placement of the one or more fabrics therebetween, and wherein the clamp is engaged (or slidable) with at least one of the halves to clamp the one or more fabrics between the halves. In example forms, the clamp (whether removable from the at least one half or movably mounted thereto) may be in the form of a C-shaped resilient spring-like member such that when removably mounted to at least one of the first and second halves, the first and second halves are generally forced or clamped together. Optionally, the clamp can comprises two or more components and may be shaped and sized as desired.
In example methods of use, the clamps of the present invention preferably releasably clamp to one or more pieces of fabric to allow a user to sew a plurality of stitches S in the fabric F and/or for cutting the fabric F by using the clamp 10 as a guide. In one example form, the present invention relates to a method of releasably clamping one or more pieces of fabric together comprising: providing a magnetic clamp comprising a first half having at least one magnetic coupling element and a second half having at least one magnetic coupling element; providing one or more pieces of fabric; positioning the one or more pieces of fabric between the first and second halves; and closing the magnetic clamp such that the magnetic coupling elements attract to one another and releasably couple the one or more pieces of fabric between the first and second halves.
While the invention has been described with reference to preferred and example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A magnetic guidance clamp comprising:

a first half, the first half comprising at least one magnetic coupling element;

a second half, the second half comprising at least one magnetic coupling element; and

a hinge disposed between the first and second halves for allowing movement of the halves relative to one another, wherein movement of one of the halves proximal to the other half causes magnetic attraction between the magnetic coupling elements and through an intermediate material, the magnetic coupling elements comprising a sufficient magnetic attractive force to hold the first and second halves together and retain the intermediate material therebetween while sewing through the intermediate material.

2. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 1, wherein the intermediate material comprises one or more fabrics.

3. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 2, wherein the one or more fabrics can be coupled or sandwiched between the first and second halves when the same are releasably coupled together by the magnetic attractive force provided by the magnetic coupling elements.

4. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 3, wherein the first half comprises a first edge and the second half comprise a second edge such that the one or more edges of the halves provide guidance when stitching through the one or more fabrics and/or when cutting the one or more fabrics.

5. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 1, wherein the magnetic coupling elements of the first and second halves are permanent magnets.

6. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 1, wherein the magnetic coupling elements of the first and second halves comprise a combination of a permanent magnet and magnetically attracted element.

7. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 1, wherein the first and second halves are generally rectangular in shape.

8. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 1, wherein the first and second halves are generally semi-circular in shape.

9. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 1, wherein the first and second halves are generally diamond-shaped.

10. The magnetic guidance clamp of claim 1, wherein the first and second halves are generally rectangular in shape, and wherein at least one of the corners is radiused.

11. A guidance clamp for cutting and/or sewing comprising:

a first half;

a second half; and

a hinge formed between the first half and second half such that the first half and second half can move relative to one another, wherein in an open, unfolded configuration the first and second halves are generally adjacent one another without any contact therebetween, and wherein in a closed, folded configuration the first and second halves are generally positioned atop each other such that an intermediate material is clamped therebetween.

12. The guidance clamp of claim 11, wherein the intermediate material comprises one or more fabrics.

13. The guidance clamp of claim 11, wherein a clamping force is provided to hold the first and second halves together such that the intermediate material is clamped therebetween.

14. The guidance clamp of claim 13, wherein the clamping force is provided by at least one hand of a user grasping the first and second halves and pressing them together.

15. The guidance clamp of claim 13, wherein the clamping force is provided by magnetic attraction between the first and second halves, the first half comprising at least one first magnetic coupling element and the second half comprising at least one second magnetic coupling element or at least one magnetically attracted material.

16. The guidance clamp of claim 15, wherein the at least one first magnetic coupling element of the first half and the at least one second magnetic coupling element or magnetically attracted material of the second half comprise a sufficient magnetic attractive force to hold the first and second halves together and retain the intermediate material therebetween.

17. The guidance clamp of claim 13, wherein the clamping force is provided by at least one spring or movable clamp.

18. The guidance clamp of claim 17, wherein the at least one spring or movable clamp is configured for movement between an open, unclamped configuration and a closed, clamped configuration.

19. The guidance clamp of claim 18, wherein the at least one spring or movable clamp is movably mounted to at least one of the halves of the guidance clamps for movement between the open, unclamped configuration and the closed, clamped configuration, and whereby in the open, unclamped configuration the first and second halves are at least spaced apart such that the intermediate material can be positioned therebetween, and wherein in the closed, clamped configuration the first and second halves are forced together such that the intermediate material is clamped therebetween.

20. A method of releasably holding one or more pieces of fabric together comprising:

providing a magnetic holder comprising a first half having at least one first magnetic coupling element and a second half having at least one second magnetic coupling element;

providing one or more pieces of fabric;

positioning at least a portion of the one or more pieces of fabric between the first and second halves; and

closing the magnetic holder such that the magnetic coupling elements attract to one another and releasably hold the one or more pieces of fabric between the first and second halves.