[001 ] This invention relates in one aspect to a personalized pillowcase or related product. More particularly, the invention relates to a pillowcase which can be configured and customized in a personal manner so as to have structures, features and accessories which may be used so as to create a themed pillowcase to meet the selective desires of the user.

[002] The pillowcase of the invention may be considered in one aspect to be one used for spiritual, aspirational or emotional purposes, and may have as one objective the purpose of facilitating or bringing out the user=s intentions, hopes, desires and dreams during sleep. Of course, invention is not limited to such objectives. To this end, the pillowcase of the invention may be configured with one or more pockets, recesses or other receptacles which are adapted to receive, as examples, cards, precious or semiprecious stones or jewelry, crystals or indeed any personal item of the user.

[003] The pillowcase of the invention may have a basic conventional structure in that it comprises a pair of opposing panels or surfaces which are fixed together at or near their edges. The panels together define a space therebetween, and may be moved relative to each other between a first position in which the space is substantially closed with the panels abutting against each other, and a second position in which the panels are separated from each other so as to increase the size of the space, which may be used to accommodate a pillow or some other object. Further, the pillowcase will include an opening for inserting and removing the pillow. In a preferred form, the pillowcase will typically be rectangular in shape, fixed along three of its edges, and open along the fourth edge for inserting and removing the pillow. In another form, the pillowcase may have the opening located between the edges, the opening being formed within a panel and preferably having some overlapping edges. The pillowcase of the invention may further comprise conventional structures such as a peripheral skirting, as well as a sleeve or smaller panel near the opening which can be pulled over a pillow to keep it securely within the pillowcase. While a pillowcase of rectangular shape may be the most common, it is within the scope of the invention that the pillowcase be of any desired shape.

[004] The pillowcase of the invention may incorporate many of the features of a conventional pillowcase, and further include pockets, segments, receptacles or other spaces for receiving objects, as will be discussed below. Moreover, the pillowcase of the invention maybe foldable, and the pockets or segments or related structures may optionally have closures or sealing mechanisms so that any objects placed within a pocket will be held firmly therein. The invention further comprises selected objects for placing inside such pockets or segments, the objects potentially being from a wide range of materials, such as specialized cards, which maybe themed and categorized, and further having graphic and text material, precious or semiprecious stones and crystals. These are just a few examples of some of the parts and accessories which may be used with a pillowcase of the invention, and the invention is not limited to any of these components or objects.

Summary of the Invention

[005] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an inspirational novelty kit comprising: a pillowcase having a plurality of compartments; and objects selected by a user for placement in one or more of the compartments of the pillowcase. The pillowcase may be of generally rectangular shape and includes an upper panel and a lower panel fastened together along the edges thereof so as to define a space, an access opening to the space, with the compartments attached onto the lower panel on an outer surface thereof. Preferably, a plurality of centrally located pockets formed on the lower panel, and there are a plurality of peripherally located pockets on the lower panel near a corner or edge of the pillowcase.

[006] Preferably, the inspirational novelty kit comprises a card having a message. Cards may be grouped into at least one category, with the message on each card relevant to the category in which it is located. A card storage container may be provided and may have a plurality of compartments with each compartment accommodating a set of cards in a specific category.

[007] In one embodiment, the object comprises: one or more crystals; precious or semiprecious stones; or a valuable or sentimental object owned by the user for use in the pillowcase.

[008] Preferably, a box container is provided for housing the pillowcase, objects, written and other material.

[009] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for providing inspiration to a user, the method comprising: forming a pillowcase adapted to hold a pillow; placing a plurality of pockets or receptacles on the pillowcase; and providing a series of objects which the user can insert and remove from the pockets or receptacles according to the user's moods and intentions.

[010] According to yet a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a pillowcase comprising an upper panel and a lower panel fastened together near edges thereof so as to define a space, an access opening to the space, a plurality of pockets or receptacles formed on the lower panel of the pillowcase, the pockets or receptacles selectively accommodating meaningful or sentimental objects of a user.

[011] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a pillowcase having an upper surface and a lower surface defining a space, at least one pocket on the upper or lower surface of the pillowcase, and an object for use with the pillowcase, the object being selected for insertion into the pocket according to the preferences of the user.

[012] The invention may comprise, instead of the pillowcase, a headband, clothing item, sheet, throw, or other object including pockets, and object for insertion in the pocket.

[013] Preferably, the object include cards, such as intention cards, dream cards, aspiration cards, to name a few examples only, which may be stored in a separate cardholder device as part of the invention, as well as crystals, precious or semiprecious stones, or other items which may preferably, but most necessarily, have a spiritual, faith-based, nature -based or other meaning and connotation. [014] The cards may be divided into categories, with each category representing a philosophy or situation, and cards within a category may have illustrations thereon which are relevant to those cards, and help to convey their meaning. [015] In one embodiment, a pillowcase in accordance with the invention may therefore have multiple pockets on one side, such as four pockets, each of which is designed to hold one of four different "intention" cards. These intention cards may have different categories, such as for corresponding to dreams, and may have further unique artistic designs and text thereon, which may be relevant to the nature and purpose of the card.

[016] In addition, a pillowcase in accordance with the invention may have pockets, recesses, which may be smaller pockets, or other types of receptacles at or near any one or more of the corners or images of the pillowcase, and these may be used to accommodate small tumbled crystals which may be used for specific healing or other therapeutical purposes.

[017] The pillowcase in accordance with the invention may include not only the pillowcase itself, but also comprise a collection or kit including a series of cards which may be contained in a card case holder, and a pouch for a starter set of three crystals. The card case holder, as well as the pouch, may have specific storage sites which may be a part or add on portion of the pillowcase, or be accommodated on the pillowcase, or they may be stored completely separately from the pillowcase.

[018] The pillowcase and accessories used in accordance with the invention is such that cards, crystals, or other objects may be selected and placed in a designated pockets, the choice of such objects being based on a user=s intentions or preferences as to what he or she would want to achieve. These may be placed in the pillowcase pockets or receptacles before going to sleep, so that the user' intentions or dreams may be manifested with the help of spiritual cards, crystals or other objects located in the pillowcase. The pillowcase and accessories in accordance with the invention may thus comprise a novelty item or kit appreciated by people who may enjoy or value this activity. [019] A pillowcase in accordance with the invention is not limited in terms of size, shape, color or materials. Thus, a pillowcase may be comprised of cotton, satin, silk, microfiber or any suitable material or fabric, and while typically rectangular, need not necessarily be so. The color of the pillowcase can be varied, and maybe chosen so that the color is consistent or meshes with the type of cards or other objects which the user may insert into the pockets, based on his or her dreams, intentions or aspirations. Different panels on the pillowcase may have different colors as well.

[020] Four sets of pockets are preferably sewn to one side of the pillowcase, each pocket defining a space which is separate from the others, and preferably rectangular so as to easily accommodate a card. Corner pockets may further be provided, and one preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes two pockets at an adjacent or opposing corners. These pockets may typically be used for the insertion of crystals, and may be sealable to ensure that the crystals remain therein. It will be appreciated that the size of the pockets sewn onto the side of the pillow, as well as those at the corners, may vary and depending upon the size and shape of the pillowcase itself, as well as the intended objects which will be inserted into the pockets.

[021 ] The pockets may be closable, or not. Where closable, this may be effected by one or more buttons, Velcro7 fasteners, zippers or other types of closing mechanisms.

[022] The pillowcase of the invention may also be configured so that certain areas are designed to receive essential oils, incense or other desired materials, and may further be designed to include one or a plurality of small speakers which may be connected, directly or wirelessly, to a music or sound source. Further, the pockets or receptacles may be lined in whole or in part with waterproof materials such as plastics to protect the pillowcase from the effects of seepage or fragrances which may otherwise be released from objects within the pockets.

[023] In one embodiment of the invention, the invention will include a series of cards which may be 3.5" x 2.5" in size. Of course, invention is not limited to such a size, which can vary depending upon the size of the pillowcase and the pockets. In fact, a single pillowcase may have pockets of different sizes to receive cards of different sizes. [024] In one form of the invention, the cards make be arranged in four categories, with options to add further categories, and even for the user to create her own category. As an example, a first card category may comprise angel cards, with the design of an angel on the card and the meaning thereof on the back. A second card category may comprise manifestation cards, which may include the design of a cloud with intentions and manifestations written on the back of the card. A third card category may comprise healing cards, which may have the design of the tree with heating words on the back. A fourth card category may comprise "I am" cards, which may include the design of an eye in the sun, with "I am" words on the back. Such words include "loving", "healthy", "authentic" and "creative", to name a few of a large number of examples. These types of cards mentioned above are examples only, and the invention is not limited to the categories listed.

[025] In one embodiment of the invention, there may be four categories as set forth above, and each category may have eleven cards therein, for a total of 44 cards in the set. These can be supplemented, so that the user has an option to order more cards in the same category, or acquire additional categories each with its own set of cards. Preferably, the cards for a particular category are of different colors and different designs, although a number of blank cards in each category might be provided so that the user can create her own artwork, and write her own personal intentions, aspirations or dreams thereon, so that the invention can be customized according to the needs and preferences of the user.

[026] Preferably, the cards may be arranged within a folded fabric pouch, although any form of storage of the cards is feasible within the scope of the invention. A fabric pouch may be comprised of any one of a number of fabrics, including a fabric which may either match or contrast with that of the pillowcase, and the fabrics may come in a number of different colors.

[027] In one form of the invention, there is provided one or more crystals for use and placement within a pocket, receptacle or other area or on the pillowcase. The crystals may comprise a set of tumbled small pocket-sized crystals, but these can be supplemented by the user if desired. In one embodiment, a set of crystals may include tumbled rose quartz, crystal quartz, amethyst and citrine, to name some examples. These maybe present in varying numbers and combinations and selections. The crystals may be contained or stored within a small fabric pouch, which, like the pouch for the cards described above, maybe available in different sizes, materials, shapes, colors and dimensions. The invention may include appropriate descriptions of specified crystals, as well as their meanings, to help guide the user in selecting one or more crystals for achieving a desired objective.

[028] The invention may come as a kit, bundled together in a fabric wrap or box. The kit may comprise the pillowcase configured in accordance with the invention, a set of cards, a set of crystals, fabric pouches, guide materials, and such other objects, suggestions for use, and information which may enhance the value and appeal of the invention to the user. In one embodiment, a kit will include at least one pillowcase, 44 cards, a card pouch or storage device, and a bag of four crystals, and these may comprise a starter kit which for many users may provide a selection of opportunities and options for use. [029] In use, a pillow is placed in the pillowcase, and the user selects cards from those provided, or created by the user, for placement in one or more of the pockets constructed into the pillowcase. Crystals or other materials may also be selected for placement in smaller pockets, such as at the corner of the pillowcase, as described above. The user may select the cards, crystals or other materials based on his or her present mood, current aspirations or dreams, or other personal choices, and these will be accommodated within the pockets of the pillowcase upon which the user' s head rests during sleep. The selection of cards and crystals or other material may facilitate inducements, or simply relax the user, or provide a more restful sleep. Even if none of these objectives or purposes is achieved, the present invention may also be considered a novelty, to provide an original or different experience.

[030] The invention may also extend beyond the scope set forth above, and pillowcases designed for children maybe provided. Further, pillowcases, cards and other parts of the kit may be constructed for other demographics, including older people, people of faith, lovers of nature, to name just a few. These maybe configured with dedicated and customized accessories relevant to that particular demographic. Thus, the pillowcases may come in specific colors, with specific imagery, or particular shapes, to achieve that object, and meet a specific spiritual or other need of the user. The intention cards would, of course, also be themed so as to correspond with the topic or motif of the pillowcase itself. Where the invention is directed towards use by a child, the crystals, for example, maybe omitted depending on the age of the child, if these are considered to present hazards to young children. Objects attractive to a child maybe used in their stead.

[031 ] The pockets may also be configured so as to receive devices which play sounds, such as music or sounds of nature, or to provide some vibration or lighting effect.

[032] The invention may also, instead of or in addition to a pillowcase, comprise sheets, including fitted sheets with pockets, which may be used for intention cards, crystals or other objects as described above, utilizing the same objectives of providing a new and fresh experience for the user. The pillowcases maybe substituted, or supplemented, with throw blankets. Further, the pillowcase or other configured components may be used as a cover or partial cover for a headboard, and contain pockets for cards, crystals and the like as described. As above, these cards and crystals may have the effect of initiating or filtering thoughts to the user during sleep. Additionally, other items including headbands, T-shirts as well as a clothing line may be provided with pockets for intention cards and crystals as mentioned above, so that the user can wear such clothing with the pockets containing cards, crystals or other objects which have been appropriately selected.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[033] In the drawings:

[034] Figure 1 is a back side of a cardholder for use with a pillow case in accordance with the invention;

[035] Figure 2 is a front side of a cardholder for use with a pillow case showing pockets and an open foldable flap in accordance with the invention;

[036] Figure 3 is a front side of a cardholder for use with a pillowcase generally shown in Figure 2 of the drawings, when in the folded position;

[037] Figure 4 is a view of a pillowcase in accordance with one embodiment of the invention including four generally centrally located pockets, and two corner pockets;

[038] Figure 5 shows a schematic view of a pillow case and related materials of the invention in a package or container;

[039] Figure 6 shows an embodiment of a bag of crystals including a pouch containing such crystals;

[040] Figures 7 to 10 show designs which maybe used on intention cards utilized in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention;

[041] Figure 11 illustrate different packaging formats and packaging designs relating to the invention;

[042] Figure 12 is a schematic representation showing the inside measurements of a box container for storing parts components of the invention;

[043] Figures 13 A, 13B and 13C show different perspective illustrations of a box which may be used to store the invention in accordance with the invention, in both the open and closed position;

[044] Figure 14 shows a top view of a box container in accordance with one aspect of the invention, for use as storage for different parts and components of the invention; and

[045] Figures 15, 16, 17 and 18 each show a set of cards of a different category which may be used in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[046] With reference to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1, 2 and 3 show a cardholder 12 having a backside 14 and a front side 16. The cardholder 12 has three storage pockets 18, 20 and 22, each of which contains a set of cards 24, 26 and 28. The cardholder 12 includes a flap 30, or cover, which can be folded over between an open position as shown in Figure 2, and a closed position as shown in Figure 3. Each of the storage pockets 18, 20 and 22 is closed on three sides, and has an upper opening 34 by means of which one or more cards 24, 26 and 28 can be inserted or removed from the pockets. Note that these figures show three storage pockets, but there may be a different number of such pockets. In another embodiment, four storage pockets are provided. In one aspect of the invention, the number of storage pockets will match the number of the categories of cards which are available, so that each category of cards may be contained within its own dedicated storage pocket. It should, however, be noted that the invention is not limited to such a requirement, and storage pockets may contain cards from a number of selected categories or types, in any arrangement or configuration selected by the user. [047] Figure 4 of the drawings shows a pillowcase 40 having a rear side 42 and a front side 44. The pillowcase 40 is sealed on three sides, and has an opening 46 by means of which a pillow or cushion can be inserted or removed. The rear side 42 of the pillowcase 40 has four receptacles 48 sealed on three sides, with an opening 50 on the upper side. A closure 52 is provided so that the receptacle may be selectively opened or closed to place a card or other object therein. The pillowcase 40 further has corner pockets 56 and 58, also preferably sealed on three sides, with a closable opening. Four pockets are shown in this figure, to illustrate the nature of the invention, but the invention itself is not limited to the number of pockets, their sizes or positions, so that they may be arranged in any suitable configuration of the pillowcase.

[048] The pockets 48 may be used for inserting cards, while the pockets 56 and 58 may be used for inserting other objects, such as crystals. However, the user has the discretion and the options to insert in the various pockets any desired object which she feels may be relevant to current moods, dreams and aspirations. Furthermore, a single pocket may contain a combination of different types of objects as selected by the user.

[049] Figure 5 shows a cover or packaging 60 in which the pillowcase and pillowcase accessories maybe contained. Figure 6 shows a fabric pouch 64 containing a number of crystals 66, which maybe of different types and sizes. These figures the show illustrative types of covers or packaging. The packaging 60 of figure 5 is wrapped in a soft fabric, paper or other material, but hard form boxes maybe used as well. Further, the pouch 64 is preferably comprised of a soft, possibly partially transparent material, and may include a closure mechanism to ensure that the objects do not inadvertently four out of this pouch 64. The closure mechanism may comprise a drawstring, flap with button, Velcro fasteners, to name a few possibilities.

[050] Figures 7 to 10 of the drawings show possible illustrations on a set of cards which may form a part of the invention. Figure 7 illustrates a tree to represent a healing card, Figure 8 represents an angel to represent an angel card, Figure 9 shows an illustration of clouds and stars to represent an intention cards, while Figure 10 shows an illustration of an eye within the sun to represent and AI am@ card. The designs illustrated in this set of cards, while the preferred embodiment of the invention, are not in any way to be seen as limiting the scope of the invention. These cards may be substituted, supplemented, and even be blank so that the user can create his or her illustration which will best represent the mood and the designs for which the pillowcase of the invention will be used. One benefit and advantage of the invention is that the pillowcase, cards, crystals and other objects of which it maybe comprised maybe varied to provide a diverse and wide choice for users so that the myriad of different desires and aspirations which different people have can will be represented within the scope of the invention.

[051 ] It should be noted that, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, each of the card categories as illustrated in Figures 7 to 10 of the drawings will have the respective illustration as shown in these figures on one side of the card, with a message, phrase, or inspirational word on the other side thereof. This will be noted and further discussed below with respect to the figures illustrating this embodiment.

[052] Figures 11 and 12 of the drawings show schematically representative packaging formats and packaging designs for the invention. These are exemplary only, and many different types of containers and the designs thereof may be used within the scope of the present invention. In these figures, figure 11 shows outside possible dimensions for the container, while figure 12 shows the possible internal dimensions. [053] Figures 13A, 13B and 13C of the drawings show various perspective views of one of the box container types which may be used with this invention. Figure 13 A shows a first perspective view from the bottom, illustrating a flap closure cover which is of slightly larger dimensions than the box below. Figure 13B is a top side perspective view of the box container, showing some of its design attributes, while Figure 13C is a bottom perspective view of the container box with the cover folded back or moved into the open position, showing the interior and storage space defined by the container. The container is preferably selected with colors and design features which are soothing and enhance its image and objective using appropriate colors, shadings, shapes, scripts and pictures. [054] Figure 14 of the drawings illustrates a box container, viewed from the top, including a ribbon mechanism for holding the cover in the closed position, but which can be easily undone to open the container for the purposes of storing or removing the contents as the case may be.

[055] Figures 15 to 19 illustrate possible card options and availabilities which maybe used in accordance with the invention. Figure 15 shows a set of cards in a category titled "Healing". This figure shows in the top left corner one side of the card, which comprises a drawing of a tree with the word "Healing" underneath it. There are 11 cards in the category, as shown in the remaining cards in this figure. In this category, different options such as "believe", "forgiveness" and "relationships" are shown each on its own card. The user may choose to select one or more of these cards which best represent a mood, intention, or aspirational feeling at the time.

[056] Figure 16 shows a category of cards entitled "Angel", once more showing the illustration of an angel with wings on one side of the card, and a message on the other side of each of the 11 cards in the category. These include the name of an angel and the purpose or origin of the angel, and, once more, the user would choose an appropriate card or cards relevant to her current situation, intentions and desires.

[057] Figure 17 shows a category of cards entitled "Intention", with the one side showing an illustration of clouds and celestial icons or drawings, while the other side of each of the 11 cards contains a message relevant to the intention category including "inner peace", "find my passion", and others as illustrated in this card set.

[058] Figure 18 shows a category of cards entitled "I am", with one side of each card illustrating a sun logo with the words "I Am" beneath the logo. On the other side of each of the 11 cards in this category is an "I am" message including messages such as "responsible", "healthy", "creative" and others as illustrated in the cards in this figure.

[059] The various categories described and illustrated in these figures may perhaps be some of the more important and typical ones which may be encountered, and which may appeal to a broad spectrum of users, but they are certainly not the only categories of cards which may be provided in accordance with the invention. [060] A standard kit of the invention may include these major categories, but additional card categories maybe available either as add-ons, or the user may even be provided with blank cards in order to create his or her own category and to make appropriate messages relating to the category for personal use. The invention may also include the ability of third-party users to prepare categories, and to upload or submit them for use by others who may feel that they may benefit from such categories and messages.

[061] While each of the categories illustrated herein have been chosen to comprise a set of 11 cards, there is no requirement that the invention be so limited. There maybe as few as one or two cards in a category, or many more than 11 cards, and the number of cards may be increased or reduced if a particular message reflected on the card is no longer considered to be useful or appropriate. One of the benefits of the invention is its flexibility as well its ability to evolve with a user, as the uses needs and desires change over time. In this way, the invention continues to remain relevant and novel as the uses circumstances and aspirations develop and change over time.

[062] Throughout this description, the embodiments and examples shown should be considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on the apparatus and procedures disclosed or claimed. Although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. Acts, elements and features discussed only in connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other embodiments. [063] As used herein, a plurality means two or more. As used herein, a set of items may include one or more of such items. As used herein, whether in the written description or the claims, the terms comprising, including, carrying, having, containing, involving, and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases consisting of and consisting essentially of, respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases with respect to claims. Use of ordinal terms such as first, second, third, etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. As used herein, and/or means that the listed items are alternatives, but the alternatives also include any combination of the listed items.