Paper Clip Day

Johan Vaaler, a Norwegian inventor with a degree in electronics, science and mathematics, invented the paperclip in 1899. He received a patent for his design from Germany in 1899, since Norway had no patent laws at that time. Johan Vaaler was an employee at a local invention office when he invented the paperclip. He received an American patent in 1901 -- patent abstract "It consists of forming same of a spring material, such as a piece of wire, that is bent to a rectangular, triangular, or otherwise shaped hoop, the end parts of which wire piece form members or tongues lying side by side in contrary directions." Johan Vaaler was the first person to patent a paperclip design, although other unpatented designs might have existed first.

To help celebrate this wonderful invention, why not make something with all of those paperclips you have laying around? Here's a simple craft from craftideas.info that is cute, easy and certainly frugal. It's recommended for ages 8 and up. You can find instructions HERE.

Happy Paper Clip Day!