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Antecedents
Overall, Velcro is a fairly modern invention. Brooches were the primary clothing fastener in the 13th century, followed in later years by buttons and belt buckles. In 1849, the American inventor Walter Hunt developed what he called the "miracle fastener," which we now know as the safety pin.1 Safety pins were made in various metals from bronze to steel to brass and in many lengths from kilt size down to ½". This smallest size was popular on children’s and doll garments in the early 1900s to 1930s.2
The safety pin was followed by another American invention called the snap fastener.3 Snaps were used primarily on theatrical costumes, especially where the costume had to be removed quickly between scenes of plays. The early snaps were not reliable nor rustproof, yet they still had mass appeal.4 An ad in the January 1898 "Ladies World for the Ball and Socket Fastener Co., Makers of Removable Fasteners of All Kinds," states: "Hear it Snap – no hooks, no eyes, no buttons, no bother, sews on invisible, simple, practical….endorsed by dressmakers, fastens easily and stays so, you hear it fasten, the blind can fasten it."
Around 1920, zippers began appearing in American society, primarily on articles of clothing. This device, designed by American engineer Whitcomb L. Judson, contained metal interlocking teeth.6 Initially, they were not popular due to their metal material, which rusted fairly easily. To decrease the risk of rust, a zipper had to be removed each time a garment was washed. However, by 1930, the zipper was repeatedly improved upon and became not only widely popular, but highly fashionable. In fact, it even entered the American Heritage dictionary in 1925.7 All of these antecedents to Velcro proved to be convenient ways for Americans to fasten material and other articles of apparel.
The Inventor
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