Decorative elements for pumpkins or other pierceable objects

#The present invention relates to decorative elements that can be used to create a face or other decoration on a pumpkin or snowman or like base. More particularly, the invention relates to an apparatus and a method for removably attaching decorative elements on a pumpkin or snowman or the like.

#Snowmen and pumpkins are examples of objects that are displayed to celebrate or identify a certain season or holiday. Snowmen are part of the tradition and fun of celebrating the winter season. Pumpkins are decorated to celebrate the Halloween holiday. Over the years, the tradition has grown to include decorating other objects in addition to pumpkins and snowmen. For example, Styrofoam forms have been used instead of snow to make snowmen for indoor use in seasonal displays.

#The display of decorated pumpkins is part of the tradition and fun of Halloween. Originally, pumpkins were decorated by cleaning out the soft pulp on the inside, and carving openings representing at least eyes, nose, and mouth. A similar tradition exists in making snowmen during the winter season, wherein a face is often made using decorative elements, for example, a nose of coal and a carrot nose. In modern times, snowmen are often made of Styrofoam or other artificial materials, and kits of decorative elements are provided as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,841,019; 4,322,004; and Des. 267,210.

#FIG. 1 is an elevation view of a pierceable object, such as a pumpkin, including a decorative element in accordance with the present invention.

#FIG. 1A is a section view of one of the decorative element of FIG. 1 along line 1A—1A.

#FIG. 1B is a section view of one of the decorative elements of FIG. 1 along line 1B—1B.

#FIG. 1 shows a pierceable object 12, in this illustration a pumpkin, having embodiments of decorative elements 10, 110 of the present invention attached to pierceable object 12. Although different embodiments of decorative elements 10, 110 are depicted attached to pierceable object 12, this is for illustration purposes.

#In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, decorative element 10 includes a decorative body 20 defining an interior chamber 22 and an insertion device 50. Referring to FIG. 1, decorative body 20 is shown in the shape of an ear. Decorative body 20 can be shaped in a multitude of configurations, including an eye, nose, mouth, ears, hat, or hair. In one embodiment, decorative body 20 of decorative element 10 of the present invention is fabricated from a soft-material. Preferably, soft-material is felt, cotton, wool, or cloth. Decorative body 20 can also be made of other materials including paper, plastic, or rubber.

#As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of decorative element 10 of the present invention is shown attached to pierceable object 12 using a plurality of insertion devices 50. However, it is not necessary for decorative element 10 to be attached by a plurality of insertion devices 50, As shown in FIG. 7, decorative element 210 can be attached to pierceable object 300, in this case a snowman, using one insertion device 50.