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

Roll of burgundy hook fastener tape.

Introducing the 4D Program

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Jun 1, 2026

Some exciting changes are coming to HookandLoop.com! Our goal is to be the leader in hook and loop manufacturing solutions for industry. With that goal in mind, we have been busy analyzing how we interact with our customers and looking for ways we can better serve you. These efforts culminated in the development and launch of our new 4D Business Consulting Service. The 4D program is a structured approach to developing custom hook and loop fasteners. The purpose of the program is to get you the right hook and loop product for your application, as quick as possible, at the lowest total cost.
Hook-And-Loop-Sports.jpg

Industry Spotlight- Hook and Loop in the Sport and Fitness Industry

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Nov 22, 2023

Hook and Loop fasteners play an important role in many products we use every day. Because the fasteners provide years of trouble-free performance, it is easy to overlook the significant benefits they provide in a diverse array of applications.

In this post, we feature some athletic products in the Sport and Fitness industry that benefit from hook and loop fasteners. Let’s take a look some hook and loop tape uses in a variety of sporting applications.

one-wrap-orange.jpg

No Sew Hook and Loop Projects

AI 1 min read

Updated On: Nov 21, 2023

Sewing is not for everyone. Fortunately, hook and loop fasteners, combined with other common craft items, eliminates the need for sewing while allowing you to achieve impressive project results. With some inspiration, patience and the right materials, you can enjoy a variety of craft projects and no one will know that you did not sew a stitch.

Cleaning-Hook-And-Loop.jpg

Cleaning Hook and Loop

AI 8 min read

Updated On: Oct 1, 2025

Hook and loop fasteners are one of the most versatile methods of joining objects. The hook side of the fastener has a strong affinity for the fuzzy loop side. Unfortunately, that affinity also attracts a range of items. Over time, the hooks can collect lint, string, hair and other unsightly debris. Dirty hook and loop can make an otherwise clean item look old and tired. Additionally, all the fuzz that collects on the hooks can reduce the bond strength of the fastener. Cosmetic issues aside, it is worth paying attention to the cleanliness of the hook and loop on sports equipment or other items that rely on securing fastening to perform properly. Continue reading this post to learn how to clean hook and loop.

spanish-website.jpg

HookandLoop.com Launches Spanish Version of Website

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Nov 22, 2023

We are excited to announce the launch of our website in the Spanish language. To continue offering the best customer service for all of our customers, including Spanish-speaking users, HookandLoop.com has put together a new site that helps Spanish speakers find the products and services they need more easily. We always strive to look for ways to improve the user experience of our website, and we feel the Spanish version will create more opportunities to meet our customers’ needs.

Sew-On-Hook-And-Loop.jpg

Hook and Loop for Decorating

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Jan 19, 2015

Are you searching for simple and effective ways of changing the look of your home? Hook and loop fasteners open the door to a wide range of easy decorating projects, allowing even novice crafters to achieve professional results.

rolls-velcro-dots-organization.jpg

Get Organized with Hook and Loop

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Nov 21, 2023

There are an almost infinite number of ways hook and loop products can help organize your home or office environment. To provide you with some inspiration, we have detailed some of our favorite hook and loop home organization ideas:

Velcro-NFL.jpg

How the NFL Uses VELCRO® Brand Fasteners

AI 7 min read

Updated On: Oct 1, 2025

NFL gaming officials require players to wear protective equipment to keep them as safe as possible. Football gear has become a prominent part of the game. In fact, some types of equipment cover and protect almost every body part of a player. Modern-day innovations have made football gear more protective and easier to wear. VELCRO® Brand fasteners are one of these innovations.

straps-one-wrap-cable-straps-detail.jpg

Hook and Loop Around the House

AI 4 min read

Updated On: May 28, 2025

The number of practical uses for hook and loop fasteners appears to be endless. For instance, you can use the handy product to manage your home’s many cables, childproof an area or even stop the door locks from rattling in your truck. Here are some ideas on how to use hook and loop fasteners around your house!
NASCAR_practice.jpg

NASCAR and Hook and Loop: How Hook and Loop Fasteners Keep Pace With the Fastest Drivers

AI 3 min read

Updated On: May 24, 2026

NASCAR and hook and loop fasteners have a deep relationship. Many longtime fans are aware of the way driver Davey Allison famously used hook and loop to bind his broken arm to the steering wheel and keep driving after a 1992 wreck. These products are also used for more than just emergencies. NASCAR, Formula One and other organizations routinely rely on hook and loop fasteners.