Who invented Polyester and the Sewing Machine? We did!

Yes, we did!

By that, I mean, Brits did.

The flying banner and other great products in the Expand A Sign range might have been conceived in Durban, SA, but the original wherewithal was most definitely supplied from this small, and as our comrades in SA continually point out to us, wet island.

My Mum had one like this!

 

The first sewing machine to combine all the elements of the 1700’s was a device built by English inventor John Fisher in 1844 for processing lace materials. Unfortunately, due to a cock-up filing Fisher's patent at the Patent Office, he didn’t receive due recognition for the modern sewing machine in the subsequent legal wrangles between two other American inventors (Singer and Howe). A theme that still has resonance today, but I mustn’t digress!

There was no legal dispute however when it came to Polyester.

 

Under a powerful microscope, obviously!

 

The first production and patent for a polyester fibre (they called it Terylene) was developed by the chemist John Whinfield and James Dickson in 1941.

But it doesn’t stop there with innovation.

At Expand A Sign, we’re still producing patented products, gaining design awards and are continuing to spend tens of thousands on product development. You might not know for example, unless I’ve already told you, that we weave and treat our own fabric (more patents) and employ a couple of bone fide Chemists full time for this particular part of our manufacturing process.

So, if you want to work with innovators and feel confident in your Branding Solutions, then give us a call and we’ll make sure your Brand stands out from the crowd.

 

And thanks Wikipedia for sharing too.