What invention was originally meant to serve as wallpaper?

Bubble Wrap was invented in 1957 by engineers Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes, who originally intended it to be a modern, textured wallpaper. Although the decorative wall covering never caught on, the inventors soon realized the material had excellent cushioning properties. It was later marketed as protective packaging and quickly became the industry standard for shipping fragile items. Today, Bubble Wrap is used around the world to protect everything from delicate electronics and artwork to glassware and collectibles.