A Unique Hybrid is Born
In the late 1940s, Australian inventor William McArthur was searching for a practical solution to make eating more convenient. He combined the functions of a spoon, fork, and knife into a single utensil, creating the Splayd. The design featured a spoon-like scoop, fork-like tines, and a sharp edge for cutting.
Gaining Popularity
McArthur’s wife, Suzanne, introduced the Splayd at social gatherings, where women found it especially useful for eating without the need for multiple utensils. By 1960, Splayds were being produced commercially, and their popularity surged.
A Wedding and TV Sensation
The utensil became a popular wedding gift in Australia and gained international attention when it was featured on television, leading to widespread demand. Splayds were exported to multiple countries, where they were marketed as an innovative alternative to traditional cutlery.
Still in Use Today
design has inspired similar utensils, and original Australian-made Splayds continue to be available, maintaining their place in cutlery history.
