Paperclip Day 📎

Overview

Paperclip Day, observed annually on May 29th, celebrates the ingenuity and enduring utility of the humble paperclip. This day acknowledges the simple yet effective design of this indispensable office tool, which has helped organize documents and bind ideas together for over a century, highlighting its significant, albeit understated, contribution to daily life and productivity.

Observed each year on May 29, Paperclip Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Origin and story

Although Norwegian inventor Johan Vaaler patented a paperclip design in 1899, the widely recognized 'Gem' paperclip design was likely developed earlier in Britain and was never patented.

During World War II, Norwegians wore paperclips on their lapels as a subtle symbol of unity and non-violent resistance against the Nazi occupation, as wearing national symbols was forbidden.

Quick facts

• DateMay 29
• TypeCultural / community observance
• Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

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Ways to celebrate

• Bring the theme into your day—decorate a workspace, cook or bake something inspired by Paperclip, or play music that matches the mood.
• Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the cultural / community observance vibe and make it a mini tradition.
• Paperclip Day lands on May 29 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.
• Share one fast fact about Paperclip Day: Although Norwegian inventor Johan Vaaler patented a paperclip design in 1899, the widely recognized 'Gem' paperclip design was likely developed earlier in Britain and was never patented.
• Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.

Fun facts

• Although Norwegian inventor Johan Vaaler patented a paperclip design in 1899, the widely recognized 'Gem' paperclip design was likely developed earlier in Britain and was never patented.
• During World War II, Norwegians wore paperclips on their lapels as a subtle symbol of unity and non-violent resistance against the Nazi occupation, as wearing national symbols was forbidden.
• The paperclip is celebrated for its simple yet effective design, which securely fastens papers together without permanent damage, making it one of the most successful and long-lived office supplies.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is Paperclip Day?

It is observed on May 29 each year.

What is Paperclip Day?

Paperclip Day, observed annually on May 29th, celebrates the ingenuity and enduring utility of the humble paperclip. This day acknowledges the simple yet effective design of this indispensable office tool, which has helped organize documents and bind ideas together for over a century, highlighting its significant, albeit understated, contribution to daily life and productivity.

How do people celebrate Paperclip Day?

Bring the theme into your day—decorate a workspace, cook or bake something inspired by Paperclip, or play music that matches the mood.

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