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Stephen Ira

SEO Auditor

Expertise:

Hook-and Loop Product Engineering
• Product Innovation
• Mechanical Engineering
Stephen Ira worked as an inventor for a small manufacturing company where he developed several patents that included Velcro® brand products which led to his founding of HookandLoop.com in 1989, distributing Velcro® brand fasteners across the country. Stephen’s company has grown into a business that specializes in manufacturing hook and loop products that are used in the final products in many industries around the world. Stephen is a graduate of the University of Memphis with a BS degree in mechanical engineering and specialized in machine design and solar engineering. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida where he enjoys an avid outdoor lifestyle and spending time with his two daughters.
10+ Years of Experiences
180+ Articles Written
Organization
The association for Business Journalist

Stephen'S Picks

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Applications of Ultrasonic Welding

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Feb 9, 2025

In light of our previous post regarding How to Make a Hook and Loop Strap, you may be wondering about ultrasonic welding and how it works. Ultrasonic welding is a manufacturing technique used to secure two materials together, like hook and loop. The first patent for welding metal objects using this process was awarded in 1960. Five years later, engineers discovered that sound waves could weld non-metal materials as well.

Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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How to Make a Hook and Loop Strap (Part 2)

AI 4 min read

Updated On: Feb 9, 2025

Previously, we covered the four main variations of hook and loop straps and the first three steps of how we cut the material to length. In the following hook and loop strap making steps, we'll go over the four types of strap tips, their advantages, and how we bond these materials together. We'll also examine the Logo Imprinting process, the options available for cinch strap rings, and when to use a grommet for your custom strap.
Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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How to Make a Hook and Loop Strap

AI 4 min read

Updated On: Aug 9, 2025

At HookandLoop.com, we focus on providing our customers with the best products available, and part of that commitment includes our conversion services. We provide customization to all our hook and loop products, but nothing comes close to the range of possibilities we have with our custom straps. With 4 different strap styles, 4 different tip types, and 25 different color options, the possibilities are endless. So let's take a look at the process we use to make your custom straps. And if you haven't used our services, here's what you need to know.
Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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VELCRO® Brand Fasteners and NASA

AI 7 min read

Updated On: Oct 1, 2025

 

VELCRO® Brand fasteners have been a commonplace fastening solution since the 1980s, but the invention of VELCRO® Brand products dates back to the 1950s, and it is credited with holding together everything from toupees to Space Shuttles.
Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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The History of the Velcro Patent

AI 3 min read

Updated On: May 27, 2025

The Velcro Company developed hook and loop fasteners over 60 years ago, and it represents one of the most innovative inventions of the 20th century. The history of the VELCRO ® Brand and its invention is a fascinating story that has made a wide range of products and services possible.
Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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Learning with Hook and Loop

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Feb 4, 2026

Hook-and-loop material has a great range of practical and creative applications. Using hook-and-loop in the classroom creates possibilities for different types of learning for all ages, from arts and crafts to visual aids.
Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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Hook-and-Loop Fasteners in Transportation

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Feb 4, 2026

Hook-and-loop applications have advanced and changed over the years, whether through new designs, or new applications by branching out into the diverse areas of the aeronautical, marine, and automotive industries.

Hook-and-loop fasteners are used in the automotive industry in everything from fitting seat trim covers, armrests and head rests, to securing headliners and floor coverings. VELCRO® Brand ONE-WRAP® is used to keep loose wires and cables bundled safely together. The hook-and-loop fastening system is also a handy helper when it comes to aftermarket repairs, parts, and accessories. Sagging headliners, truck bed covers, or peeling door panels can quickly be repaired or secured with acrylic adhesive backed hook and loop.

Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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Electrically Conductive Hook and Loop

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Feb 4, 2026

Hook and loop has been around for decades, but that doesn't mean its various applications and designs aren't always expanding. Today, there are even hook and loop fasteners that will conduct electricity. This is managed by spray coating the hook and loop with liquid silver. Silver is used because it has the highest electrical conductivity and the highest thermal conductivity of any metal.

Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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HookandLoop.com Installs Grommets in Straps

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Feb 4, 2026

The service technicians at HookandLoop.com install grommets into straps. Grommets are small rings -- usually brass -- that are punched through any number of materials: paper, canvas, leather, etc. The purpose of these metal rings is to protect the surrounding material from damage when cords or strings are run through the hole of the grommet. Think of the rings your shoe laces are fed through, only stronger. If the rings weren't there, the material would eventually wear out and tear.

Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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Funny and Strange Uses for Hook and Loop Fasteners

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Feb 4, 2026

Hook and loop fasteners have been around for more than 60 years -- plenty of time for people to discover strange new uses for them. They are used in everyday applications, such as shoes and diapers, to more exotic uses like Aerospace applications. Astronauts dealing with zero gravity use Velcro® for everything from keeping their personal hygiene products in place in storage bags to fastening pieces to a chess board during leisurely time in space.

Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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Other Uses for Hook and Loop Fasteners

AI 3 min read

Updated On: May 25, 2025

Hook and loop fasteners are versatile enough to be used for pretty much anything and everything: camera bags, diapers, display panels at corporate trade shows and conventions -- the list is endless. Because of its ease of use, NASA has even used the fasteners on state-of-the-art astronaut suits. In fact, most individuals are likely unaware of how truly pervasive hook and loop is. Continue reading to discover some interesting fastener uses!

Stephen Ira
by: Stephen Ira
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