Patent Publication Number: US-2007108361-A1

Title: Musical instrument strap with decorative connector end

Description:
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/736,401, which was filed on Nov. 14, 2005 and is hereby incorporated in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS  
      1. Field of the Inventions  
      The present invention relates generally to accessories and particularly to straps that can be attached to a guitar.  
      2. Description of the Related Art  
      Straps are commonly used for supporting an article by a person&#39;s body, thereby leaving the person&#39;s hands free to perform various tasks. Typically, a shoulder strap extends about a person&#39;s shoulders and neck and can be connected to an article, such as a purse, bag (e.g., a satchel, diaper bag, and backpack), and the like. Typically these articles have compartments that are not conveniently accessible when a person is wearing the article. For example, the storage compartments of a backpack may not be easily accessed by a person wearing the backpack. Thus, a person may have to remove the backpack in order to remove an item from the backpack.  
      Many times straps are used to support an instrument, especially stringed musical instruments (e.g., a guitar, bass guitar, mandolin, banjo, etc.). These stringed musical instruments are typically played while standing. The shoulder strap is usually positioned on the player&#39;s shoulder, such that the ends of the strap are connected to the instrument positioned in front of the musician. The central portion of the strap extends over and around the shoulder of the musician.  
      Guitars are a popular musical instrument among musicians and audiences. The guitarist is usually highly visible during musical performances. A guitar strap typically holds a guitar so that the guitarist&#39;s left hand can grip the front board neck of the guitar, and the guitarist&#39;s right hand is usually used to strum the strings of the guitar with his fingers, or a pick. If the guitarist is sitting, the bottom or lower end of the guitar can rest upon the guitarist&#39;s thigh, and the guitar strap ensures that the guitar does not fall and hit the ground.  
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONS  
      In some embodiments, a musical instrument strap assembly comprises an elongate body. A pair of opposing connector ends is operatively coupled to the elongate body. The elongate body is interposed substantially between the connector ends. The elongate strap can be configured to hold a guitar or other instrument. One or both of the connector ends can comprise a material selected from the group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymer, and combinations thereof. The connector ends can act as a shock absorber and/or a dampener.  
      In some embodiments, a musical instrument strap assembly comprises a musical strap having an elongate body. At least one connector end of the strap is configured to attach to a musical instrument or to an attachment structure operatively coupled to the musical instrument. The at least one connector end comprises a material selected from the group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymer, and combinations thereof. In some variations, the at least one connector end has a decorative shape or design. The at least one connector end can be constructed to draw attention to the musical strap and provide easy recognition of the strap when the strap is either attached to or removed from the musical instrument., In some variations, the at least one connector end has printing thereon. In some variations, the at least one connector end has a three-dimensional shape or design. In some variations, the at least one connector end is multi-colored. In some variations, the at least one connector end is created by a process selected from the group consisting substantially of extrusion, stamping, molding, cutting, printing, or embossing, and combinations thereof. In some variations, the at least one connector end has an opening for receiving at least a portion of the guitar or an attachment structure operatively coupled to the guitar. In some variations, for example, an opening of the at least one connector end can be configured to receive an attachment structure of a guitar, such as a standard button and/or fastener. Such a connector end can be attached to and removed from the guitar as desired.  
      In some embodiments, a musical instrument strap assembly comprises a musical strap having an elongate body and a pair of connector ends. The elongate body extends substantially between the connector ends. The connector ends are configured to operatively couple to a musical instrument. At least one of the connector ends comprises a material selected from the group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymer, and combinations thereof. In some variations, at least one of the connector ends comprises mostly rubber. In some variations, at least one of the connector ends comprises mostly an elastomeric polymer. The flexible connector end can improve the overall comfort of the strap assembly. In some variations, at least one of the connector ends has a multi-piece construction, comprising an inner portion and an outer portion. The outer portion preferably comprises one of the materials selected from a group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymers, and combinations thereof. The inner portion can comprise the same material or different materials. In some variations, at least one of the connector ends is configured to hold one or more guitar picks.  
      One or both connector ends can have a decorative shape or design. In some variations, the decorative shape or design can have one or more figures, symbols, pictures, graphics, labels, logos, or combinations thereof. In some variations, one or both connector ends can have printing thereon. In some variations, one or both connector ends can have a three-dimensional shape or design. In some variations, one or both connector ends can be multi-colored. In some variations, one or both connector ends can be created by a process selected from the group consisting substantially of extrusion, stamping, molding, cutting, printing, or embossing, and combinations thereof. In some variations, the connector ends are configured to operatively couple to a guitar. When the strap is attached to a guitar, the strap can be positioned on the player&#39;s shoulder and can support the guitar positioned in front of the musician. A central portion of the strap can extend over and around the shoulder of the musician.  
      In some embodiments, a musical system comprises a guitar and a musical instrument strap. The musical instrument strap can comprise an elongate strip comprising a first material. The instrument strap also includes at least one connector end operatively coupled to the elongate strip. The at least one connector end is configured to attach to a musical instrument, such as the guitar, or to an attachment structure operatively coupled to the guitar. The at least one connector end comprises a second material. In some embodiments, the first material is different from the second material. In some variations, the second material is selected from a group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, an elastomeric polymer, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the second material comprises rubber including natural rubber and synthetic rubber In other embodiments, the at least one connector end comprises an elastomeric polymer. Preferably, the at least one connector end comprises mostly a material selected from a group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymer, and combinations thereof In some variations, the at least one connector end has an opening for receiving and holding a portion of guitar or an attachment structure operatively coupled to the guitar.  
      As used herein, the term “elastomeric polymer” is a broad term and includes, but is not limited to, a material having mechanical properties that allow it to go under substantial elastic deformations. Example of elastomeric polymers may include rubber (including natural and/or synthetic rubbers), silicones, fluorosilicone rubber, and the like. The elastomeric polymer can be a generally compliant material  
      As used herein, the term “natural rubber” is a broad term and includes, but is not limited to, rubber that is obtained from plants. As used herein, the term “synthetic rubber,” is a broad term and includes, but not limited to, artificially made polymer materials that basically act as an elastomer. Various types of rubbers can be used to form at least a portion of the straps. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
      These and other aspects of the inventions will be readily apparent from the detailed description below and the appended drawings, which are meant to illustrate and not to limit the invention. The drawings contain the following figures.  
       FIG. 1  is an elevational view of a person wearing a strap assembly holding a guitar. The strap assembly has an accessory holding a lighter.  
       FIG. 1A  is an elevational view of one of the ends of a strap assembly.  
       FIG. 1B  is an elevational view of one of the ends of a strap assembly in accordance with another embodiment.  
       FIG. 1C  is an elevational view of one of the ends of a strap assembly in accordance with another embodiment.  
       FIG. 2  is an enlarged perspective view of the accessory of the strap assembly of  FIG. 1  attached to a strap.  
       FIG. 3  is a front view of the accessory of the strap assembly of  FIG. 2 .  
       FIG. 3A  is a side view of the portion of the strap assembly of  FIG. 2 , wherein the accessory is holding a lighter.  
       FIG. 3B  is a cross-sectional view of the strap assembly of  FIG. 4  taken along the line  3 B- 3 B.  
       FIG. 4  is a top view of a portion of the strap assembly of  FIG. 2 , wherein the lighter is removed.  
       FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view of the accessory of  FIG. 4  taken along the line  5 - 5 .  
       FIG. 6A  is a perspective view of a modified strap assembly holding a lighter.  
       FIG. 6B  is a perspective view of the accessory of the strap assembly of  FIG. 6A , wherein the lighter is removed.  
       FIG. 6C  is a perspective view of an accessory of a strap assembly, the accessory having an adjustable chamber.  
       FIG. 6D  is a perspective view of an accessory of a strap assembly, the accessory in accordance with another embodiment.  
       FIG. 6E  is a perspective view of an accessory of a strap assembly, the accessory in having an adjustable chamber.  
       FIG. 6F  is a back view of a strap assembly having a support plate.  
       FIG. 7  is a front view of a strap assembly having an accessory in accordance with another embodiment.  
       FIG. 8A  is a cross-sectional view of the accessory of  FIG. 7  taken along the line  8 A- 8 A.  
       FIG. 8B  is a cross-sectional view of the accessory of  FIG. 7  taken along the line  8 B- 8 B, the accessory is gripping a bottle cap on a bottle.  
       FIG. 8C  is a modified strap assembly of  FIG. 8A , the strap assembly having a support plate.  
       FIG. 9  is a front view of the accessory for holding items attached to a strap, wherein the accessory is in a closed position.  
       FIG. 10  is a side view of the accessory and the strap of  FIG. 9 .  
       FIG. 11  is a front view of the accessory of  FIG. 9  in an open position.  
       FIGS. 12A  to  12 H are front elevational views of instrument straps having decorative connector ends for attaching to a musical instrument.  
       FIG. 13  is a front elevational view of a connector end of a guitar strap in accordance with one embodiment.  
       FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of the connector end of  FIG. 13  taken along the line  14 - 14 . 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       FIG. 1  illustrates a person playing a musical instrument  40 . A musical strap assembly  41  is configured to be worn on the body of the person and preferably includes a musical instrument strap  42  that extends about the wearer&#39;s body and supports the musical instrument  40 , thereby freeing the player&#39;s hands for playing the instrument. Generally, the musical instrument strap  42  has ends configured to attach to a musical instrument  40 . An accessory  46  in the form of a holder is attached to the musical instrument strap  42  and defines a chamber configured to receive and hold a lighter.  
      In the illustrated embodiment, the musical instrument  40  is a guitar. However, the musical instrument  40  can be a stringed instrument (e.g., a bass guitar, mandolin, banjo, etc.), a woodwind instrument (e.g., a saxophone), and the like. For the sake of simplicity, the accessories described below are attached to guitar straps. However, the accessories can be attached to other straps, clothing, etc.  
      The holder  46  can be attached at any point along the musical instrument strap  42 . In the illustrated embodiment, the holder  46  is positioned along a portion  43  of the strap  42  and in front of the musician wearing the strap assembly  41 . The holder  46  is preferably readily accessible to the musician without moving the guitar  40  from the playing position. As used herein, the term “accessory” is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and may include, without limitation a holder (e.g., a lighter holder, drink container holder, bottle opener holder, etc.), bottle opener, receptacle, etc. Additionally, the accessory can have an eye-catching design that further enhances an audience&#39;s viewing pleasure during a performance. The illustrated holder  46  has an eye-catching design in the form of a skull and cross bones. However, the holder  46  can have a design comprising a flag (e.g., American Flag), trademark, advertisement, etc.  
      In the illustrated embodiment, the strap  42  is a guitar strap configured to attach to and support a guitar. One end of the instrument strap  42  is configured to connect to one side of a body  45  of the guitar  40 , and the other end of the strap  42  is configured to connect to an opposing side of the body  45 . The guitar instrument strap  42  preferably has a pair of button loops at its ends for securing the strap  42  to attachment structures (e.g., standard button fasteners) found on guitars.  FIG. 1A  illustrates a first end  48  of the strap  42  that has a button loop  49  configured to mate with a button fastener. The button loop  49  is an aperture suitable for receiving a button fastener on a musical instrument. The button loop  49  may comprise an elongated slot, slit, generally round hole, and/or other design suitable for coupling to an attachment structure of a musical instrument. A skilled artisan can select the design of the strap  42  to attach to different types of guitars, or other musical instruments. As shown in  FIG. 1B , for example, the end  48  of the strap  42  can have a tie  51  for tying the strap  42  to a musical instrument. The opposing ends of the strap can have different or similar structures as each other. For example, the strap  42  may comprise the end  48  of  FIG. 1A  and an opposing end  48  having a plurality of loops  49 .  
      The instrument strap  42  can comprise natural materials (e.g., leather, cotton, and the like), synthetic materials (e.g., polymers such as nylon), and combinations thereof. For example, the strap  42  can comprise leather or leather-like material that-conforms to the body of the musician. A skilled artisan can select materials to form the strap  42  to achieve the desired abrasion resistance, tear strength, durability, comfort, and/or other desired properties.  
      The illustrated strap  42  of  FIG. 1  has a one-piece construction. For example, the strap  42  can be a monolithic or unitary strip of material. Alternatively, the strap can be a multi-piece construction and preferably comprises a strip of material connected to couplers configured to attach, e.g., to a musical instrument. The couplers can be formed of plastic, material, metal, and/or the like. The strap  42  can be connected to the coupler by stitching, a buckle arrangement, snap arrangement, or other suitable arrangement.  
      Optionally, the strap  42  may include an adjustment means for regulating the length the strap  42 . As shown in  FIG. 1C , the strap  42  comprises an adjustment system  55  used to selectively regulate the length of the strap  42 . The strap  42  comprises a first strap  55  with one or more elongated slots  57  configured to receive a second strap  50 .  
      When the strap assembly  41  is worn, the strap  42  is preferably worn over the musician&#39;s shoulder and suspends the guitar  40  in the front of the musician for easy strumming. In some embodiments, the strap  42  can be worn about the neck and above the shoulders of the musician and can have a coupler (e.g., a clip, hook, including a snap hook, and the like) configured to attach to an instrument, such as a saxophone. Of course, the design of the strap can be selected based on the type of instrument attached to the strap. A skilled artisan can select the design of the strap  42  and the means for coupling the strap to a musical instrument.  
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the holder  46  attached to the strap  42 . The holder  46 , alone or in combination with the strap  42 , holds the lighter  52 . In the illustrated embodiment, the lighter  52  is preferably interposed between the surface  47  of the strap  42  and the holder  46 .  
      The holder  46  comprises a housing  53  that surrounds a portion of the lighter  52 , preferably a significant portion of the lighter  52 . The housing  53  includes a front portion  54 , a first side  60 , an opposing second side  62 , a bottom  64 , and an upper portion  65 . In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, a substantial portion of the lighter  52  is disposed within the strap assembly  41 .  
      The front portion  54  is a generally flat body that extends between the first side  60  and the second side  62  and between the bottom  64  and the upper portion  65 . The sides  60 ,  62  extend rearwardly from the front portion  54  and are preferably attached to the strap  42 . The first side  60  and the second side  62  cooperate to limit lateral movement of the lighter  52  relative to the holder  46 . The first and second sides  60 ,  62  are generally similar to each other. However, in other embodiments, the first side  60  and second side  62  are different from each other.  
      With reference to  FIG. 3 , the bottom  64  of the holder  46  is configured to support the lighter  52 . The bottom  64  comprises opposing lower portions  66 ,  68 . The lower portions  66 ,  68  are configured to hold and support the lower comers of the lighter  52 , thereby preventing the downward movement of the lighter  52 .  
      The housing  53  can define an opening  63  ( FIGS. 2 and 3 B) adapted to permit the lighter  52  to pass therethrough. The opening  63  is preferably defined by the upper portion  53 , upper ends of the sides  60 ,  62 , and the strap  42 . In the illustrated embodiment, the lighter  52  is disposed within the holder  46  and extends through the opening  63 . The opening  63  has a shape that is generally similar to and slightly greater then the cross sectional profile of the lighter  52 .  
      As shown in  FIG. 3 , the first and second sides  60 ,  62  can be spaced from the bottom  64  to provide one or more side windows  76 A,  76 B. A portion of the lighter  52  is exposed by the windows  76 A,  76 B for convenient access to the lighter  52  in order to move the lighter  52  relative to the holder  46 . For example, the wearer of the strap assembly  41  can conveniently grip the sides  77 ,  78  of the lighter  52  through the windows  76 A,  76 B and can then slide the lighter  52  into or out of the holder  46 . The distance between the sides  60 ,  62  and the bottom  64  can be selected to achieve the desired size (e.g., length) of the windows. In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the first side  60  and the bottom  64  can be configured to define a window  76 B having a length equal to or greater than about ¼ inch. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the length of the window  76 B is greater than about 1/2 inch. In another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the length of the window  76 B is greater than about ¾ inch. A skilled artisan can select the desired size of the window  76 B to provide the desired access to the lighter  52 . The window  76 A and window  76 B can be generally similar to each other.  
       FIG. 3A  is side view of the lighter  52  being held by the holder  46 . One or more fasteners couple the holder  46  to the strap  42 . The strap  42  is perforated having one or more apertures, each preferably adapted to receive a fastener. A plurality of fasteners  69  preferably extends through the strap  42  and is received within the holder  46 . One or more of the first side  60 , the second side  62 , the lower portion  66 , and the lower portion  68  can be coupled to the strap  42  by one or more fasteners  69 . In one embodiment, the first side  60 , the second side  62 , the lower portion  66 , and the lower portion  68  each are coupled to the strap  42  by a fastener in the form of a screw.  
      With reference to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the assembly  41  has a cavity or chamber  70  configured to receive the lighter  52 . The chamber  70  comprises a plurality of walls that defines a chamber generally in the shape of at least a portion of a lighter. In the illustrated embodiment of  FIGS. 3B and 5 , the cavity  70  is defined by a front cavity surface  72 , the pair of side walls  80 ,  82 , the pair of vertical walls  90 ,  92  and the support surfaces  86 ,  88 .  
      The front portion  54  defines the front cavity surface  72  configured to engage the outwardly facing surface  81  of the lighter  52 . At least a portion of the front cavity surface  72  can be a generally flat surface to reduce frictional interaction with the lighter  52 . In some embodiments, the front cavity surface  72  is a generally flat planar body configured to slidably engage the outer surface of the lighter  52 . In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 3B , the front portion  54  defines a concave surface that has an outer periphery that is generally flat. The surface  47  of the strap  42  preferably defines the back cavity surface  74 . The surface  47  and the front surface  72  cooperate to hold the lighter  52  therebetween.  
      With respect to  FIG. 4 , the first side  60  and the second side  62  define the pair of side walls  80 ,  82 , respectively, spaced apart to prevent substantial lateral movement of the lighter  52 . The side walls  80 ,  82  each can define a surface having a similar shape as a portion of the lighter  52 . As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the side walls  80 ,  82  can be generally flat in order to mate with the generally flat walls of the lighter  52 . However, the side walls  80 ,  82  can be curved (e.g., convex and/or concave), or have any other shape suitable for mating with a lighter. In some embodiments, the sidewalls  80 ,  82  are concave in order to mate with a lighter having, e.g., an elliptical cross-section.  
      One or more of the front cavity surface  72  and the side walls  80 ,  82  can be generally smooth to reduce frictional interaction between the holder  46  and the lighter  52 . Thus, the lighter  52  can be easily slid into and out of the chamber  70 . The coefficient of friction of one or more of the cavity surface  72  and side walls  80 ,  82  can be increased to inhibit or prevent relative movement between the lighter  52  and the holder  46  in at least one direction (e.g., the vertical direction).  
      The bottom  64  of the holder  46  is configured in some embodiments to support the bottom of the lighter  52  when the lighter  52  rests in the chamber  70 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the bottom  64  defines one or more support surfaces for holding the lighter  52 . Each of the lower portions  66 ,  68  can have at least one support surface. The support surfaces  86 ,  88  extend inwardly and are configured to contact and support the lighter  52 . Each of the portions  66 ,  68  can also have vertical side walls  90 ,  92 , respectively. The vertical side walls  90 ,  92  can capture and prevent substantial lateral movement of the lower end of the lighter  52 . In the illustrated embodiment, the vertical side walls  90 ,  92  are generally perpendicular to the support surfaces  86 ,  88 . However, the vertical side walls  90 ,  92  and their respective support surfaces  86 ,  88  can define other angular relationships. For example, the vertical side walls  90 ,  92  and the corresponding support surfaces  86 ,  88  can form an angle that is less than or greater than  90  degrees.  
      The housing  53  can be generally rigid in order to hold and protect the lighter  52 . The housing  53  preferably retains its shape when the lighter  52  is place into or removed from the holder  46 . The housing  53  can have a one-piece or multi-piece construction. In some embodiments, the housing  53  is a unitary body that is formed through a molding process, machining process, or other suitable manufacturing process. In some embodiments, for example, the housing  53  is monolithically formed through a die-cast molding process. The housing  53  may comprise metal(s) (such as steel, iron, aluminum, brass, metal alloys), plastic, epoxy, composites, combinations thereof, or other suitable materials for holding a lighter. A skilled artisan can select the material to form the housing  53  to achieve the desired structural properties.  
       FIG. 4  is a top view of the holder  46 . The chamber  70  has a cross-sectional profile that is slightly larger than the cross-sectional profile of the lighter  52 . The opening  63  defines the upper end of the chamber  70  such that a lighter can be moved into and out of the chamber  70 .  
      The lighter  52  can be a typical lighter used to ignite, e.g., a cigarette or cigar. For example, the lighter  52  can be ZIPPO® lighter that has a width of about 1.5 inches and a length of about 2.125 inches and a thickness of about 0.5 inch. Preferably, in some embodiments the lighter  52  has a generally rectangular, and this can include rounded rectangular, cross-sectional profile. The cross-section of the chamber  70  can be slightly larger than the ZIPPO® lighter so that the ZIPPO® lighter can be easily slid into the chamber  70 , and contained therein. In other embodiments, the chamber  70  can have a circular, elliptical, polygonal (including rounded polygonal), and/or other suitable cross-section for receiving a lighter. For example, the cross-section of the chamber  70  can be generally elliptical and configured to receive a BIC® lighter. Thus, the chamber  70  can have various configurations for mating with different types of lighters.  
      With reference to  FIG. 5 , the holder  46  can have one or more openings  100  configured to receive fasteners (e.g., the fasteners  69  of  FIG. 3A ) for coupling the holder  46  to the strap  42 . The openings  100  can have internal threads configured to engage external threads of the fasteners  69 . The fasteners  69  are threadable coupled to the corresponding openings  100 . Alternatively, the fasteners  69  can be rivets, mechanical fasteners (e.g., nut and bolt assemblies), or other couplers for attaching the holder  46  to the strap  42 . In yet other embodiments, an adhesive or other means can affix the holder  46  to the strap  42 . The holder  46  can be temporarily or permanently coupled to the strap  42 .  
      In operation, to place the lighter  52  into the holder  46 , the lower end of the lighter  52  can be inserted into and advanced through the opening  63 . The lighter  52  can be moved into the chamber  70  until the lighter  52  contacts the support surfaces  86 ,  88 . After the lighter  52  is positioned in the holder  46 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , the musician can play the guitar without hindrance from the lighter  52  and holder  46 .  
      When the musician wears the strap assembly  41 , the chamber  70  can be vertically oriented so that the lighter  52  remains held by the holder  46  before, during, and after the musician plays the musical instrument. Thus, the chamber  70  can have a longitudinal axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the instrument strap  42 . In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the chamber  70  can be at an angular relationship with the strap  42 . For example, an angle of less than about  20  degrees can be formed between the longitudinal axis of the chamber  70  and the strap  42 . A skilled artisan can select the orientation of the holder  46  and the instrument strap  42  to obtain the desired position and orientation of the holder  46  when the strap assembly  41  is worn.  
      When a person desires to use the lighter  52 , e.g., to light a cigarette, a person can operate the lighter  52  while the lighter remains within the holder  46 . The wearer can open the lid of the illustrated lighter  52  and operate the lighter&#39;s lighting mechanism to produce fire. Alternatively, the lighter  52  can be removed from the holder  46  before being operated. For example, the wearer can grip and move the lighter  52  out of the holder  46 . In the some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, the lighter  52  can be slid upwardly out of the holder  46 . The wear can grasp the lid of the lighter  52  extending outwardly from the opening  63  or the sides  77 ,  78  of the lighter  52  during removal. Alternatively, the wear can push upwardly on the bottom of the lighter to slide the lighter  52  upwardly out of the holder  46 . After the lighter  52  has been taken out of the holder  46 , the lighter  52  can be operated to obtain fire.  
      The holder  46  can be attached to the strap  42  at various locations. The holder  46  can be attached to the back, front, central portion, ends, etc. of the strap  42 . A skilled artisan can select the position of the holder  46  along the strap  42 . For example, the holder  46  can be located on the back of the strap  42  to hide and protect the holder  46 .  
       FIG. 6A  illustrates a modified embodiment of the holder  46 , which may be generally similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , except as further detailed below. Where possible, similar elements are identified with identical reference numerals in the depiction of the embodiments of  FIGS. 1-5 . The holder  46  has a housing  58  that is a sleeve defining a chamber for receiving the lighter  52 . The housing  58  may or may not have windows for enabling a person to grip the sides of the lighter. Although not illustrated, the housing  58  can have an eye-catching design for increasing aesthetic appeal of the holder  46 .  
      As shown in  FIG. 6B , the holder  46  can have a back wall  103  extending between the sides  60 ,  62 . The lighter  52  can be held by the holder  46  without contacting the strap  42 . In other words, the housing  58  can define a chamber  70  that is spaced from the strap  42 .  
      In some embodiments, the holder  46  is temporarily coupled to the guitar instrument strap  42 . For example, the fasteners  69  can be hook-and-loop-type coupler(s) (e.g., VELCRO®). The strap  42  can have one of the hook or loop portions and the holder  46  can have the other of the hook or loop portions. Alternatively, the fasteners  69  can be snaps or other structures suitable for temporarily coupling the holder  46  to the strap  42 . Advantageously, accessories of different designs can be interchanged and coupled to the strap  42 . Of course, in other embodiments, the holder  46  is permanently coupled to the strap  42  by, e.g., rivets.  
      In some embodiments, the strap assembly  41  is configured to hold other types of articles. For example, the article  52  can be in the form of a container, such as a flask, for holding a fluid. The container  52  can have a similar or different shape as the lighter  52  described above. For example, the strap assembly  41  can have a chamber  70  with a generally rectangular profile, circular profile, or other shape for receiving and holding the drink container. A skilled artisan can select the design of the chamber  70  of the strap assembly  41  to hold different types of containers.  
      The strap assembly  41  can be configured to hold one or more tools, preferably tools used on a musical instrument attached to the strap assembly  41 . The holder  46  can have a chamber  70  that holds one or more Allen wrenches, string cutters, or other equipment. For example, a plurality of Allen wrenches can be disposed within the holder  46 . The upper ends of the Allen wrenches can extend out of the holder  46  for conveniently gripping and removing of the wrenches. As such, the wrenches can be stored in the holder  46  and easily removed and returned to the holder  46 . Optionally, the holder  46  can have a means for inhibiting or preventing movement of the tools held by the holder  46 . The holder  46  can have one or more magnets, straps, slots, holes, and/or other suitable structures for engaging tools. For example, the holder  46  can have magnets that generate a magnetic field to hold tools securely within the holder  46 . The holder  46  can have one or more magnets spaced about the periphery of the chamber  70  to engage items held within the chamber  70 . In some embodiments, the holder  46  has a wall, such as the back or front wall, that is magnetized in order to securely hold items.  
       FIG. 6C  illustrates a modified embodiment of the holder  46 . The holder  46  includes a chamber  70  that is adjustable to accommodate articles of different sizes. The holder  46  comprises a member  102  that is moveable relative to the housing  53  and can have a first position when the holder  46  is empty and a second position when the holder  46  holds one or more articles, such as a lighter, cosmetics (e.g., lipstick), guitar slide, tools, drinkware opener other articles disclosed herein, and the like. The articles can be removed from and returned to the holder  46 . For example, a bottle opener can be held by the holder  46 . A person can remove from the holder  46  and then use the bottle opener. The bottle opener can then be returned to the holder  46 .  
      The member  102  can preferably apply a pressure to the article to inhibit or prevent the movement of the article relative to the holder  46 . Thus, the holder  46  can securely hold an article, thereby reducing the likelihood that the article will slide out of the holder  46 . For the sake of simplicity, the holder  46  is described primarily with respect holding a lighter. However, the holder  46  can be configured to hold any of the other articles disclosed herein.  
      The member  102  is configured to frictionally engage a lighter (e.g., the lighter  52 ) positioned within the chamber  70 . The member  102  is preferably biased to apply a force in the outward direction, i.e., away from the back wall  116  in order to apply a pressure to the lighter  52  held by the holder  46 . The member  102  can be a thin sheet of metal, plastic, or other suitable material for applying pressure to an article.  
      The member  102  includes an upper end  104 , lower end  106 , and body  107  therebetween. The upper end  104  and lower end  106  can move relative to housing  53  to change the dimensions of the chamber  70 . The body  107  is curved inwardly into the chamber  70 , such that at least a portion of the body  107  contacts a lighter  52  inserted into the chamber  70 .  
      One or more couplers  110  can couple the member  102  to the back wall  116  of the holder  46 . The one or more couplers  110  can be attached at any suitable point along the member  102 . The couplers  110  can be attached to the back wall  116  and to one side of the member  102 . The coupler  110  can be formed of plastic, rubber, or the like.  
      When a lighter  52  is inserted and advance into a chamber  70 , the lighter  52  can press the member  102  towards the back wall  116 . As the member  102  moves toward the back wall  116 , the upper end  104  and lower end  106  can move in the direction indicated by the arrow  120 , 122 , respectively. In this manner, the member  102  can be moved toward the back wall  116  as the lighter  52  is advanced into the chamber  70 . Once the lighter  52  is fully inserted into the holder  46 , the member  102  can contact the back wall  116 , or can be spaced therefrom. When the lighter  52  is held by the holder  46 , the member  102  can apply a pressure to the back surface of the lighter thereby frictionally holding the lighter  52 . As the lighter  52  is moved upwardly out of the holder  46 , the central portion of the member  102  can move away from the back wall  116  and the ends  104 ,  106  can move toward each other until the lighter  52  is removed from the holder  46 .  
      In other embodiments, the member  102  can have curved portions and/or flat portions. Optionally, the end  104  of the member  102  can be curved toward the nearest wall of the housing  53  of the holder  46 . The coupler  110  can be in the form of one or more springs that couples the member  102  to at least one of the walls of the holder  46 . The springs  110  can bias the member  102  towards the opposing wall to define a chamber  70  that is moveable to accommodate an article disposed within the holder  46 .  
       FIG. 6D  depicts a holder  46  that defines a chamber  70  suitable for holding one or more articles, such as guitar slides, lipstick containers, cosmetic containers, drinking containers, and/or the like. The chamber  70  can have an elliptical, circular, rounded polygonal, or other cross sectional profiles.  
      Preferably, a substantial portion of the article is disposed in the chamber  70  when the article is fully inserted into the holder  46 . In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the chamber  70  is sized such that at least 60% of the article can be disposed within the chamber  70 . In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the chamber  70  is sized such that at least 70% to 90% of the article is disposed within the chamber  70 . In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the chamber  70  is sized to receive the entire article, preferably such that the article does not extend out of the holder  46 .  
      The cross-section of the chamber  70  is preferably at least slightly larger than the cross-section of the article held therein. In some embodiments, the chamber  70  has a cross-sectional area that is generally constant along the longitudinal axis of the chamber  70 . However, the chamber  70  can have a cross-sectional area that varies along the longitudinal axis of the chamber  70 .  
      In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the chamber  70  is configured to hold one or more slides (e.g., guitar slides) and has a cross-sectional area (i.e., the area of the chamber  70  in a plane generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis  117  of the holder  46 ) of about 0.35 in 2 , 0.50 in 2 , 0.60 in 2 , 0.70 in 2 , 0.80 in 2 , and ranges encompassing such areas. The cross-sectional area of the chamber  70  can be generally circular, elliptical or have any other shape suitable for holding a guitar slide. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the chamber  70  taken along the longitudinal axis  117  is in the range of about 1 in 2  to 3.5 in 2 , more preferably in the range of about range of about 1.5 in 2  to about 3 in 2 . The chamber  70  has a length along its longitudinal axis in the range of about 1.5 in to 3 in.  
      In some embodiments, the chamber  70  is configured to hold a one or more cosmetic containers (e.g., lipstick containers) and has a cross-sectional area (i.e., the area of the chamber  70  in a plane generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis  117  of the holder  46 ) of about 0.50 in 2 , 0.75 in 2 , 1 in 2 , 1.5 in 2 , 2in 2 , 2.5 in 2  and range encompassing such areas. In some embodiments, the chamber  70  is generally circular, polygonal (including rounded polygonal such as a rounded square). The chamber  70  has a length along its longitudinal axis  117  that is greater than about 0.5 inches. In some embodiments, the chamber  70  has a length along its longitudinal axis  117  that is less than about 3 inches, including 2.5 inches and 1.5 inches.  
      In some embodiments, the chamber  70  is configured to hold one or more drink containers and has a cross-sectional area of about 1 in 2 , 3in 2 , 5 in 2 , and ranges encompassing such areas. The cross-sectional area of the chamber  70  can be substantially circular, elliptical, polygonal (included rounded polygonal), and other shapes suitable for holding known drink containers. In some embodiments, the chamber  70  has a length along its longitudinal axis  117  that is more than about 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the chamber  70  has a length along its longitudinal axis  117  that is less than about 6 inches.  
      With reference to  FIG. 6E , the holder  46  includes a member  102  configured to engage a curved surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the member  102  has a shape that is generally similar to the back wall  116 . However, in other embodiments the member  102  can have a shape that is generally similar to other portions of the holder  46 .  
      Optionally, the holder  46  can also comprise a coupler  122  (e.g., a spring) that couples the member  102  to the housing  53 . In some embodiments a plurality of springs  122  couples the member  102  to the back wall  116 . The member  102  can therefore be moved towards or away from the back wall  116  to accommodate various sized articles, such as guitar slides, cosmetics (e.g., lipstick), a flask, or other item(s). Thus, the member  102  can cooperate with the walls of the holder  46  to tightly hold an article within the chamber  70 .  
      Although not illustrated, the member  102  can be attached to the front wall or side walls of the holder  46 . Additionally, a plurality of members  102  can be disposed within the chamber  70 . For example, the back wall  116  and the front wall can each have a member  102  configured to apply an inwardly directed force that holds a lighter within the holder  46 . In another exemplary embodiment, a plurality of members  102  is attached to one of the walls of the housing  53 .  
       FIG. 6F  illustrates the back of the strap assembly  41 . The strap assembly  41  can optionally comprise a support  130  for providing structural support to the assembly  41 . The support  130  can be a stiffener designed to reinforce and provide structural support to the strap  42 .  
      The support  130  includes one or more mounting structures for attaching to the strap  42 . The illustrated support  130  includes a plurality of holes  133 ,  135 ,  136 ,  137  adapted to receive a corresponding fastener  69 , which in turn extends through the strap  42  and into the accessory. The holes of the support  130  preferably correspond to holes formed in the accessory and in the strap  42 . Any suitable number of fasteners  69  can be used to couple the support  130  to the strap  42 . In other embodiments, the strap assembly has two or more fasteners attaching the accessory to the strap  42 . The illustrated strap assembly  41  has four fasteners for attaching the accessory to the strap  42 . A skilled artisan can select the appropriate number of fasteners to attach the accessory and support  130  to the strap  42 .  
      The support  130  is a generally flat-plate that comprises a somewhat ridged material (e.g., metal, plastic, composite, combinations thereof, and the like) suitable for supporting the accessory, such as the accessory  46 . The support plate  130  can have a generally polygonal (including rounded polygonal), circular, elliptical, or other shape suitable for providing structural support to the strap assembly  41 .  
      Optionally, the support plate  130  preferably defines a surface area that is generally equal to or greater than the surface area of the face of the accessory facing the strap  42 . Preferably, the support plate  130  is generally stiffer than the strap  42 . The thickness of the support plate  130  can be increased or decreased to decrease or increase the flexure of the support  130  when the accessory holds an item, is used to open drinkware, and the like.  
       FIGS. 7-11  depict other embodiments of the strap assembly  41 , which may be generally similar to the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6B , except as further detailed below. Where possible, similar elements are identified with identical reference numerals in the depiction of the embodiments of FIGS.  1 - 6 B.  
       FIG. 7  illustrates a strap assembly  41  that comprises an accessory  146  adapted to open drinkware by removing a closure. The drinkware can be a container for containing foodstuffs, such as ingestible liquid (e.g., beverages including alcoholic and carbonated liquids, water, coffee, and the like). As used herein, the term “drinkware” is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and includes, without limitation, drink containers, bottles, cans, or the like. The drinkware can comprise glass, plastic, foam, and/or metal and is preferably configured to be closed with a closure.  
      As used herein, the term “closure” is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and includes, without limitation, a crown closure, bottle cap, snap cap, punctured seal, cork or plug, or the like suitable for closing drinkware. The terms “closure” and “cap” may be used interchangeably herein. Generally, the accessory  146  can be used to open or remove a closure in order to consume foodstuff within drinkware. Preferably, the accessory  146  is a bottle opener that can grasp at least a portion of a closure to pull the closure from the container as the container is moved relative to the bottle opener  146 .  
      With continued reference to  FIG. 7 , the bottle opener  146  comprises a housing  153  that is attached to the strap  42  and a receiving window  148  adapted to receive a portion of a closure. In some embodiments, the receiving window  148  is configured to receive a typical bottle cap that is attached bottle used to hold beverage (e.g., soda, alcoholic beverage, etc.). The receiving window  148  can be defined by a first edge  150  and a second edge  152  of the housing  153 . The first edge  150  and the second edge  152  each comprise an arcuate segment, wherein a portion of the edges  150 ,  152  are capable engaging a closure.  
      With respect to  FIG. 8A , the receiving window  148  has a height H less than about 0.5 inches. In some embodiments, the height H is in the range of about 0.25 inch to about 0.75 inch, including about 0.375 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.625 inch and ranges encompassing such heights. These heights H provides a window that can receive a portion of a closure appropriate for prying the closure from a container while the bottle opener  146  is attached to the strap  42 .  
      The housing  153  defines a recessed region  155  that extends rearwardly from the window  148 . The recessed region  155  is preferably configured and sized to receive at least a portion of a closure passed through the receiving window  148 . As shown in  FIG. 8B , a closure  168  in the form of a bottle cap is attached to a container  170  and extends through the window  148  and is received within the recessed region  155 . The container  170  can be moved relative to the bottle opener  146  to remove the closure  168  from the container.  
      Optionally, the second edge  152  comprises a protrusion or tab  160 . As illustrated in FIGS.  7  to  8 B, the protrusion  160  can extend outwardly from the second edge  152 . When the container  170  is in the illustrated position of  FIG. 8B , the protrusion  160  can be positioned between the lip of the closure  168  and the container  170 . In other words, the protrusion  160  can be inserted between the closure  168  and the top of the container  170 . After the bottle opener  146  grips the closure  168  in this manner, the container  170  can be moved relative to the bottle opener  146  to remove the closure  168  from the container  170 . It is contemplated that one or more protrusions  160  can be at any point along the first edge  150  and/or second edge  152 . Alternatively, the second edge  152  can be a generally smooth continuous edge that is configured to engage and remove the closure  168 .  
      In operation, the closure  168  is positioned within the window  148  of the bottle opener  146  such that the first edge  150  and second edge  152  engaged the closure  168 . After the closure  168  is grasped between the first edge  150  and the second edge  152 , the container  170  can be moved relative to the bottle opener  146  to pry off the closure  168 . In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, the container  170  can be rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow  172  such that the protrusion  160  applies a force to a portion of the lip of the closure  168  while the first edge  150  applies a force to a central portion of the closure  168 . As the container  170  is rotated, the closure  168  is held within the receiving window  148  until the closure  168  is completely separated from the container  170 . Preferably, the bottle opener  146  can be used to open a container while the strap  42  is being worn. Thus, the musician can wear the strap  42 , which supports a guitar while the bottle opener  146  is used to open the container  170 . Of course, there are other ways of employing the bottle opener  146  to remove the closure  168 . For example, after the closure  168  is gripped by the accessory  146 , the container  170  can be moved in an outwardly direction (i.e., the direction normal to the strap  42 ) to pull off the closure  168 .  
      The individual wearing the strap assembly  41  can advantageously quickly and easily use the bottle opener  146  to open drinkware while wearing the strap assembly  41  and musical instrument. The bottle opener  146  can also be used by a person not wearing the strap assembly  41  to open a container. For example, the musician wearing the strap assembly  41  can continue to play the musical instrument supported by the assembly  41  while another person uses the bottle opener  146  to open drinkware.  
      Although not illustrated, the accessory can have a slot or opening that is suitable for gripping and removing a closure from a container. For example, a modified bottle opener  146  can have an opening  148  that has a circular or curved portion and a portion that is somewhat straight. The straight portion of the opening  148  can be used to remove a closure, such as a bottle cap, after the bottle cap is positioned within the opening  148 . The accessory can also have known configurations suitable for removing a closure from drink container.  
       FIG. 8C  illustrates a modified embodiment of the strap assembly. The support  130  is positioned between the heads of the fasteners  69  and the strap  42 . Thus, the strap  42  is interposed between the support  42  and the accessory  146 . The support  130  can advantageously reduce or prevent tearing or bending of the strap  42  located between the accessory  146  and the support  130 . A skilled artisan can select the thickness and dimensions of the support  130 , the materials forming the support  130 , and the location of the fasteners  69  to achieve the desired structural support to the accessory  146 .  
       FIG. 9  illustrates an accessory  200  in the form of a receptacle attached to the guitar strap  42 . The illustrated receptacle  200  comprises a base  206  and a lid  210 . Generally, the base  206  is attached to the strap  42  and the lid  210  is removably coupled to the base  206 . The lid  210  is illustrated in a closed position such that item(s) can be stored in the receptacle  200 . The receptacle  200  can also have a means for securing the lid  210  over the base  206 . The lid  210  can be moved from the closed to an open position in order to remove contents within the receptacle  200 . The receptacle  200  preferably comprises a mechanism  229  that mechanically connects the lid  210  to the base  206  by permitting pivotal movement of the lid  210  with respect to the base  206 .  
      The base  206  comprises a housing  218  that extends outwardly from the strap  42 . The housing  218  has an outer surface  219 . As shown in  FIG. 10 , the housing  218  and the lid  210  cooperate to define a chamber  226 , preferably a closed chamber. The housing  218  has a back wall  230  that has an inner surface  224  and a back wall outer surface  227 . The inner surface  224  defines a portion of the chamber  226 , and the back wall outer surface  227  is configured to mate with the strap  42 .  
      As shown in  FIG. 11 , the housing  218  is a generally cylindrical wall that defines an inner surface  220  and extends outwardly from the back wall  230 . The housing  218  defines the sides of the chamber  226  and can be integrally formed with the back wall  230 .  
      When the lid  210  is in a closed position illustrated in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the lid  210  and the housing  218  define the chamber  226  having a volume configured and sized to hold one or more items, such as equipment for an instrument (e.g., a pick, including a guitar pick, string, reed, cork grease), foodstuffs (e.g., candy), medication, clothing, Jewelry (e.g., a rings, bracket), cosmetics (e.g., lipstick), and the like. The receptacle  200  can loosely hold these items. In one embodiment, the receptacle  200  holds items (e.g., guitar picks) such that the items can slide freely about or within the chamber  226 . In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the chamber  226  can have a volume in the range of about 0.2 inches 3  to about 2 inches 3 . In some embodiments, the chamber  226  has a volume in the range of about 0.5 inches 3  to about 1.25 inches 3 . In yet other embodiments, the chamber  226  has a volume equal to or greater than about 0.25 inches 3 . The housing  218  can have a width W or diameter in the range of about 1 inch to about 2 inches. As shown in  FIG. 10 , the height H B  of the housing  218  can be greater than about 0.1 inch. In some embodiments, the height H B  is preferably less than about 0.75 inch. Alternatively, the receptacle  200  can tightly hold items to ensure that the items do not move relative to the receptacle  200 .  
      With reference to  FIG. 11 , the base  206  defines a receptacle opening  233  defined by the edge of the housing  218 . The opening  233  is configured so that a person&#39;s finger can be passed therethrough. In some embodiments, the opening  233  is configured so that a person&#39;s finger and thumb can be passed therethrough to grab one or more items held within the base  206 . The opening  233  can be generally circular, polygonal (including rounded polygonal), elliptical, or other suitable shape for permitting items to be place into and/or removed from the base  206 .  
      The lid  210  can be actuated between a closed position and an open position. When the lid  210  is in the closed position illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the lid  210  prevents items from escaping from the chamber  226 . To remove items from the chamber  226 , the lid  210  can be moved to a partially or completely opened position (illustrated in  FIG. 10 ) to expose the contents within the receptacle  200 .  
      With reference to  FIGS. 9 and 11 , the base  206  includes a mechanism  229  in the form of a hinge for movably holding the lid  210 . The mechanism  229  preferably comprises a pair of holders  231 ,  233  disposed at either end of an elongated member  238  in the form of a shaft. Each of the holders  231 ,  233  is configured to receive an end of the shaft  238  such that the shaft is rigidly or rotatably held therebetween. The holders  231 ,  233  are spaced apart such that the end  236  and the lid  210  can be interposed between the holders  231 ,  233 . Although the mechanism  229  is located at an outer edge of the base  206  and the lid  210 , the mechanism  229  may not be located at the extreme edges of the base or lid. A skilled artisan can select the design of the mechanism  229  to achieve the desired movement of the lid  210 . For example, the mechanism  229  can be a hinge (e.g., a living hinge) that connects the base  206  and the lid  210 , wherein the receptacle is made of plastic formed by, e.g., an injection molding process.  
      As used herein, the term “lid” is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and includes, without limitation, a closure, cover, or the like suitable for closing the receptacle  200 . The lid  210  preferably comprises a protrusion or tab  226  at one end and the opposing end  236  is attached to the mechanism  229 . The protrusion  226  extends outwardly from the lid  210  to form a convenient gripping structure for applying a force to the lid  210 . In other embodiments, the lid  210  can have other configurations and designs for a user to easily engage and articulate the lid  210 . For example, the lid  210  may have an outer edge or flange that extends outwardly from the base  206  when the lid is in a closed position. The end  236  has a through-hole configured to surround the shaft  238  of the mechanism  229 . There can be play between the through-hole and the shaft  238  so that the lid  210  can pivot about the shaft  238 . Alternatively, the lid  210  can be connected to the shaft  238 , which has ends pivotally connected to the base  206 . Optionally, an outer surface  239  of the lid  210  defines an eye-catching design.  
      With continued reference to  FIG. 11 , the receptacle  200  can have a closing system  240  configured to hold the lid  210  in the closed position. The closing system  240  comprises a first magnetic portion  250  of the base  206  that is configured to interact with a second magnetic portion  252  of the lid  210 . When the lid  210  is in the closed position, the first portion  250  can be located proximate the second portion  252  to produce a magnetic field which causes the magnets  250 ,  252  to be drawn towards each other, such that the lid  210  remains in the closed position as the wearer plays the guitar. To open the receptacle  200 , the user can place the finger on the tab  226  and apply an outwardly directed force that overcomes the magnetic field of the system  240  in order to rotate the lid  210  about the shaft  238  and away from the base  206 . The lid  210  can be moved from an open position towards the base  206  until the magnetic members  250 ,  252  cooperate to generate a magnetic field that biases the lid  210  to the closed position.  
      Alternatively, the closing system  240  can be in the form of a latch, hook and loop fasteners, or other structure(s) for inhibiting or preventing the movement of the lid  210  relative to the base  206 . In some embodiments, a plurality of magnets can couple the lid  210  to the base  206 . For example, the base  206  can have a plurality of magnets  250  spaced about its periphery. The lid  210  can likewise have a plurality of similarly spaced magnets  252  spaced about its periphery. In other embodiments, the lid  210  is completely removable from the base  206  (i.e., the receptacle  200  does not have a mechanism  229 ). The magnets  250 ,  252  can cooperate to hold the lid  210  on the base  206 . The lid  210  can be pulled to completely remove the lid  210  from the base  206 . Alternatively, the lid  210  can have one or more flanges for releasably coupling to the base  206 . For example, the lid  210  can be snapped onto the base  210  with flanges.  
      In some embodiments, a kit can comprise one or more of the accessories described above and a strap  42 . Optionally, the kit can also comprise a lighter, drinking container (e.g., a flask), one or more picks, and/or other items suitable for engaging the accessory. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the kit comprises the holder  46  and the lighter  52 . In another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the kit comprises the receptacle  200  and one or more picks (e.g., a guitar pick). The accessory can be attached to the strap  42 , or separate from the strap  42  for subsequent assembly. Optionally, the kit can also comprise a means for attaching the accessory to the strap. Optionally, the kit can also comprise a musical instrument, such as a guitar.  
       FIGS. 12A  to  12 H illustrate various embodiments of musical instrument straps. These instrument straps are generally similar to each other, except as detailed below. The illustrated straps are configured to hold guitars; however, the straps can modified to hold other instruments or items if desired.  
      With respect to  FIG. 12A , the guitar strap  500  includes an elongate body  502  and a connector end  504 . The other end of the strap  500  can have another connector end that is similar to or different than the connector end  504 . The connector ends are preferably configured to attach to a guitar or to an attachment structure operatively coupled to the guitar. The illustrated connector ends of  FIGS. 12A  to  12 H are decorative shapes or designs that can be selected to draw attention to the musical strap and provide easy recognition of the strap  500 . The illustrated shapes or designs can also improve the appearance of the guitar to which the strap  500  is attached.  
      The elongate body  502  can comprise leather, synthetic materials, cloth, and other materials suitable for forming an elongate body having sufficient strength to support a guitar. The illustrated elongate body  502  is a strip of material having a generally uniform width along the length of the body  502 .  
      In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 12A , the connector end  504  is configured to connect to one side of a body of a guitar or to an attachment structure operatively coupled to the one side of the guitar body, and the other connector end (not shown) of the strap  500  is configured to connect to an opposing side of the guitar body or to an attachment structure operatively coupled to the opposing side of the guitar body. The elongate body  502  can be interposed between the connector ends.  
      The connector end  504  is operatively coupled to the elongate body  502  and preferably comprises a button loop  506  for receiving an attachment structure (e.g., a standard button fastener) found on a guitar. For example, the connector end  504  can include at least one button loop  506  configured to receive a button fastener of a guitar. The button loop  506  is preferably an aperture sized to receive a button fastener and may comprise an elongate slot, slit, combinations thereof, or other suitable structures for operatively coupling to a guitar. The connector end  504  can also have other structures for operatively coupling to a guitar.  
      Each of the connector ends illustrated in  FIGS. 12A  to  12 H has a decorative shape or design that can be constructed to draw attention to the strap  500  and provide easy recognition of the strap  500  when the strap  500  is either attached to or removed from the musical instrument. The illustrated shapes or designs can also improve the overall appearance of the guitar to which the strap  500  is attached. In alternative embodiments, the connector ends may not have a decorative shape or design.  
      The illustrated elongate body  502  and the connector end  504  of  FIG. 12A  can be made of the same material or different materials. In some embodiments, the elongate body  502  and the connector end  504  can be comprised of different materials. In some illustrated embodiments, the connector end  504  comprises a material selected from the group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymers, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the connector end  504  comprises natural rubber. In other embodiments, the connector end  504  comprises synthetic rubber. In other embodiments, the connector end  504  comprises elastomeric polymers. Preferably, the connector end  504  comprises mostly one of the materials selected from the group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymers, and combinations thereof. Because the connector end comprises one of these materials, printing, figures, symbols, pictures, graphics, labels, or other indicium can be placed upon the surface of the connector end  504 . Additionally, the compliant connector ends can act as shock absorbers and/or dampeners that absorb energy for a comfortable strap  500 .  
      Various processes can be used to form connector ends having different shapes. As illustrated in  FIGS. 12A-12H , the end connectors can have relatively complicated designs and shapes. These can be achieved through various manufacturing processes. For example, extrusion processes, stamping processes, molding processes, cutting techniques, printing, embossing, and/or other manufacturing processes can be used to form and shape the connector ends.  
      With respect to  FIG. 13 , an end  600  of the guitar strap  602  comprises a connector end  610 . The illustrated connector end  610  has a shape that is generally similar to the shape of the connector end illustrated in  FIG. 12B .  
      The connector end  610  can have one or more pick holders  640  designed for temporarily or permanently holding guitar picks. In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 13 , the pick holders  640  are elongated slots formed in an outer member  630  of the connector end  610 . The elongated slots  640  have a generally arcuate shape. In other embodiments, however, the elongated slots  640  have a somewhat straight shape. As shown in  FIG. 14 , a pick  650  can be disposed within one of the slots  640 . To mount the pick  650  to the connector end  610 , the pick  650  can be slid downwardly through the slot  640  until it is securely held within the end connector  610 . Other items can also be held by the connector end  610 .  
       FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of a connector end  610  and associated elongate body  614  taken along the line  14 - 14 . The elongate body  614  has a lower end  616  that is coupled temporarily or permanently to the connector end  610 . For example, stitching  620  ( FIG. 13 ) can couple the connector end  610  to the elongate body  614 . Other coupling means, such as VELCRO®, snaps, adhesives, fasteners, rivets, mechanical fasteners (e.g., nut and bolt assemblies), or other suitable means, can be used to couple the connector end  610  to the elongate body  614 .  
      The connector end  610  can have a one-piece or multi-piece construction. The illustrated connector end  610  has a multi-piece construction and comprises the outer portion  630  and an inner portion  632 . The outer portion  630  preferably comprises one of the materials selected from a group consisting substantially of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric polymers, and combinations thereof. The inner portion  632  can comprise the same material or different materials.  
      In some embodiments, the inner portion  632  comprises a different material from the material forming the outer portion  630 . Cloth, fabric, leather, and the like can form the inner portion  632  so that the inner portion  632  slides easily along the surface of a guitar. The connector end  610  can have any number of layers depending on the intended application.  
      The end  616  of the elongate body  614  can be sandwiched between the outer portion  630  and the inner portion  632 . In this manner, the end  616  of the elongate body  614  can be securely held between the outer portion  630  and the inner portion  632 . However, other configurations are also possible.  
      Although not illustrated, a modified accessory of the straps can have a combination of features of the accessories described above. For example, a strap with decorative connector ends can have one or more accessories configured to hold a lighter, open a bottle, or other items.  
      Similarly, the various features and steps discussed above, as well as other known equivalents for each such feature or step, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to perform methods in accordance with principles described herein. Additionally, the methods which is described and illustrated herein is not limited to the exact sequence of acts described, nor is it necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of events or acts, or less than all of the events, or simultaneous occurrence of the events, may be utilized in practicing the embodiments of the invention.  
      The materials, methods, ranges, and embodiments disclosed herein are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any way. Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the appended claims.