A Failed Wallpaper Experiment Led to Bubble Wrap’s Existence

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Bubble wrap is an irresistible delight for our inner child, as who doesn’t love squeezing those plastic bubbles until they burst? My favorite thing about it is twisting a group of them and enjoying the symphony of popping sounds. Although bubble wrap is commonly used in packaging to protect fragile items during shipping, its creation actually stemmed from an unsuccessful experiment with wallpaper. For a fascinating look into the history behind this popular material, check out Lance Geiger’s video on The History Guy.

Indeed, this video is rather lengthy, with the advertisements factored in. Understandably so, as they need revenue. In essence, during the year 1957, two inventors named Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes were the ones behind a project. Their aim was to develop a three-dimensional, plastic material that resembled wallpaper. The reason for this creation? To create something unique and innovative.

As reported by Smithsonian Magazine, these Beatnik-loving innovators aimed to create an unconventional textured wallpaper. To achieve this, they sandwiched two plastic shower curtains in a heat-sealing machine. Unfortunately, instead of the desired texture, their creation turned out to be a sheet filled with bubbles. Quite an unexpected turn of events!

Fielding and Chavannes were aware that there might be issues with the laminated plastic they were working on and conducted various experiments, one of which was testing it for potential use as greenhouse insulation. Ultimately, in 1960, IBM launched its groundbreaking 1401 model computer, necessitating protective measures during transportation.

Back in the day, when I was still a cinema devotee, waiting for my next big screen adventure, this fascinating invention called Bubble Wrap saved the day and ensured the safety of this gargantuan, awkward computer during shipping. And as they say, that was the turning point. It’s amazing how genius can sprout from what we perceive as failures. All you need is a dash of persistence to try something new.

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2025-06-11 17:06