Page 19 - Microsoft Word - Facilitators Guide Content & Cover

Safety Pin Bracelet

Did you know?

The fibula, a form of brooch, was invented by the Myceaneans on the Greek Peloponnesus
between the 14th and 13th Century BC, and is considered an early precursor to a safety pin
since they were used in a similar manner.

American mechanic Walter Hunt is regarded as the inventor of the safety pin that bears
resemblance to those used today. The safety pin included a clasp that covered the point and
kept it from opening, and a circular twist at the bend to act as a spring and hold it in place.
Charles Rowley (Birmingham, England) independently patented a similar safety pin in
October 1849, although the company no longer makes these.

Hunt made the invention to pay off a $15 debt to a friend. He used a piece of brass wire
that was about 8 inches long and made a coil in the center of the wire, so it would open
when released. The clasp at one end was devised to shield the sharp edge from the user.

After being issued U.S. patent #6,281 on April 10, 1849, Hunt sold the patent to W. R.
Grace and Company for $400 (roughly $10,000 in 2008 dollars). Using that money, Hunt
then paid the $15 owed to a friend and kept the remaining amount of $385 for himself.
What Hunt failed to realize is that in the years to follow, W.R. Grace and Company would
make millions of dollars in profits from his invention.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safety_pin

Materials Needed:

 Approx. 60-90 safety pins depending on wrist size
 Color and size of pins to suit your preferences. Size used in photo is 1 1/4"
 Assorted bugle beads, colors and lengths of your choice *
 Assorted seed beads, colors of your choice *
 Length of 1.0 mm Stretch Jewelry Cord
 Craft Glue

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