My friend invented the Butter Mill, from whence this seems to be derived (note diplomatic phrasing.) He does have a patent and sells his invention at maxspace.com. Pats of butter are nice, but who wouldn't prefer a 10 foot ribbon? The butter is also spreadable when it comes out...seems the pats woud have to be hard enough to cut...not so spreadable. Also, the Butter Mill (I voted for the name The Buttery during development, myself, btw) has interchangeable plates, which switch you from ribbon to star to strings to logs of butter. Also available in clear plastic and stainless (like I personally use.) Never had so much fun with butter!!!