Many everyday devices have their roots in simple beginnings. Prior to the invention of Velcro, it was common to use brooches of safety pins as a clothing fastener. In 1941, Swiss engineer found some cocklebur seeds sticking to his clothes. The cocklebur was a plant that had thin strands or hooks. If an animal walks by, its fur catches onto the plant. For eight years, de Mestral tried to get the tiny hooks and loops to interlock with each other. Finally he perfected his prototype with the help of a weaver. Out of this amazing yet simple invention have come Velcro fasteners for shoes, backpacks, pants, and shirts.