The humble paperclip is one of the simplest and most useful inventions ever made. National Paperclip Day, on May 29, celebrates this tiny piece of bent wire that keeps papers together and has countless other uses, from resetting gadgets to making jewelry. Its history includes surprising myths and even a role as a symbol of resistance during World War II.
History of National Paperclip Day
Before paperclips, people held papers together with pins, ribbons or string. In the 1800s, steel wire became cheaper and more flexible, making new fasteners possible.
The most familiar paperclip design, the double-oval 'Gem' clip, was developed in Britain in the 1870s or 1880s by the Gem Manufacturing Company. Its exact inventor is unknown. In 1899, a Norwegian named Johan Vaaler patented a different paperclip design, and he is often incorrectly credited with inventing the Gem clip.
During World War II, Norwegians wore paperclips on their clothing as a quiet symbol of resistance and unity against the Nazi occupation. A giant paperclip statue in Norway honors Vaaler. Who started National Paperclip Day is not documented.
Why National Paperclip Day Matters
The paperclip is a great example of simple, effective design. Its shape has barely changed in more than a century.
It also has an inspiring history as a symbol of resistance.
The paperclip encourages creative thinking; it has been used in countless clever ways, from tools to art, and has inspired design and engineering lessons.
The paperclip is also a favorite example in design and creativity exercises. Teachers and trainers often ask people to list as many uses for a paperclip as they can, a classic test of divergent thinking. It is proof that even the most ordinary objects can inspire new ideas when we look at them differently.
How to Celebrate National Paperclip Day
- Make paperclip art: bend clips into shapes or sculptures.
- Create a chain: link paperclips into a long chain.
- Learn the history: read about the Norwegian resistance.
- Organize: use paperclips to tidy papers.
- Try a challenge: see how many uses you can think of.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, host a paperclip creativity challenge to see who can make the best sculpture, or organize the supply closet. In classrooms, students can study simple machines and design, measure objects in paperclips, make paperclip chains for math lessons, or learn about the paperclip's WWII symbolism. At home, families can make paperclip jewelry or bookmarks, or try the 'one red paperclip' trading idea for fun. Keep small parts away from young children.
Fun Facts About National Paperclip Day
- The Gem clip design dates to the 1870s or 1880s in Britain.
- Johan Vaaler patented a different design in 1899.
- Norwegians wore paperclips as a symbol of resistance in WWII.
National Paperclip Day FAQs
When is National Paperclip Day?
National Paperclip Day is May 29.
Who invented the paperclip?
The Gem design's inventor is unknown; it came from Britain.
Did Johan Vaaler invent the paperclip?
He patented a different design, but did not invent the Gem clip.
Why is the paperclip a symbol in Norway?
Norwegians wore them as a sign of resistance in WWII.