A photo of Stephen Ira

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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Top Life Hacks with Hook and Loop

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Nov 22, 2023

Everyone is familiar with the many common ways hook and loop can come in handy, from grouping and securing wires to keeping seat cushions and rugs from slipping around. What some may not realize is that it possesses some extraordinary organizational qualities. Tidy up the contents of your drawers using hook and loop to bundle common items, or secure your tools in the garage with the power of Industrial Strength fasteners, keeping everything within easy reach.

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24 of the Craziest Inventions Made with Hook and Loop

AI 5 min read

Updated On: May 24, 2026

Hook and loop in products isn't a new concept and have been used ever since the fastener hit the mainstream in the 1980's. Most of you could name a handful of products these convenient fasteners have been used on but here are 24 interesting hook and loop uses and inventions you probably didn't know about:

5 Top YouTube Channels That Showcase Hook and Loop

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Apr 5, 2024

There is really something to be said about YouTube. Here are the top YouTube Channels that showcase hook and loop at its best.
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Top Clothing Companies You Didn't Know Use VELCRO®

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Jun 1, 2026

Hook and loop has proven itself over and over to be a great tool for those who are aging or have a disability. It's amazing that the simple adjustment of using VELCRO® Brand fasteners could make such a difference in the disabled community. In fact, a few clothing companies have already caught on and make clothing with VELCRO® Brand products. Here are 4 top companies that use hook and loop in their clothing designs:
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Pet Products That Utilize Hook and Loop

AI 3 min read

Updated On: May 24, 2026

The amazing utility and convenience of VELCRO® Brand hook and loop fasteners is known far and wide among humans. Countless products that we use everyday rely on the versatility and usability of this unique fastener. What most people don't realize however is how valuable hook and loop is among pet products as well. Check out this list of products for pets that utilize hook and loop fasteners for more details!
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5 Reasons to Always Have Hook and Loop on Hand

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Jun 21, 2024

Hook and loop is a very versatile product that can be very useful around the house and in everyday life. Here are 5 reasons why you should make sure you keep VELCRO® Brand fasteners on hand.
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Staying in the Loop: Bikes, Scooters and Horns

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Feb 9, 2025

Hook and loop is used in so many applications, it’s difficult to know where to start. After all, it’s not just shoes and wallets that use these practical fasteners. We’re highlighting some interesting applications that we come across, including new business ventures, technology, and DIY stuff, among others.
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Staying in the Loop: Oculus Touch, Murphy Beds and More

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Sep 30, 2025

Hook and loop is used in so many applications, it’s difficult to know where to start. After all, it’s not just shoes and wallets that use these practical fasteners. We’re highlighting some interesting applications that we come across, including new business ventures, technology, and DIY stuff, among others.

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How to Hang Your Mistletoe with Hook and Loop

AI 5 min read

Updated On: Apr 3, 2025

New Year’s Eve is almost here and you’ve got to figure out how to hang mistletoe from the ceiling. If you’re having trouble finding a good way to get it to stay where it’s supposed to, here are some suggestions on how to hang yours up with some hook and loop so you can be sure to steal a kiss from your crush this New Years.

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How Santa Uses Hook and Loop For Christmas (Probably)

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Nov 22, 2023

Santa Claus probably has plenty of uses for hook and loop. With Christmas here, we wanted to investigate how Santa might use some of our products to help him on his midnight run. Whether it’s on his suit, his sack of toys, or his sleigh, Santa has plenty of uses for the sturdy and convenient fasteners.