Early baler designs were relatively simple, with the initial baling technology relying on twine. In 1858, American inventor John F. Appleby invented the first twine baler. At the time, twine was an expensive resource; consequently, although Appleby's invention was ingenious, it did not see immediate widespread adoption. Nevertheless, the design remained valuable as a reference point due to the machine's operational flexibility.
Baler technology evolved significantly in the years following Appleby's invention. In 1871, American inventor Walter Wood obtained a patent for a wire baler, marking a major breakthrough in the field. Wire was both stronger and less expensive than twine, facilitating the widespread production and use of balers. Wood's baler also attracted considerable attention at exhibitions in the United Kingdom, laying the groundwork for further improvements to baler technology.