Inventor stories & tips

Lessons from real inventors and practical steps for taking your idea from sketch to patent.

• Story

  Margaret Knight and the flat-bottomed paper bag

  How a factory worker built a working model, defended her patent in court, and won.

• Story

  Garrett Morgan: solving a problem he saw every day

  The inventor behind an early three-position traffic signal started by watching a street corner.

• Story

  Josephine Cochrane built the dishwasher she wanted

  She wasn't an engineer — she measured dishes, hired help, and kept improving.

• Tip

  5 things to write down before you show anyone your idea

  A simple record now can save you a lot of trouble later.

• Tip

  Make your first prototype for less than you think

  Start rough, test one thing at a time, and spend money only when it's proven.

• Tip

  How to make your invention stand out from existing patents

  Small, specific differences are what make an idea new.