Industry Uses For Hook and Loop

In 1955, Swiss engineer George de Mestral patented the hook and loop fastener which came to be known as VELCRO®, or hook and loop fasteners. During the Apollo program, NASA saw this fastener as a way to secure a number of items in zero gravity conditions. It became an integral addition to the moon flights and helped to fasten the astronauts’ space boots and gloves. Is it any wonder that it would go on to be employed to construct props for TV sci-fi shows?

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. Here are 4 top companies that use hook and loop in their clothing designs:

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.

Creative expression in art takes limitless forms, and the use of VELCRO® Brand hook and loop fasteners can expand artistic applications in unique and innovative ways.

Arts and crafts projects, for both children and adults, benefit from using VELCRO® Brand hook and loop material. A collage can be much more than a flat, two-dimensional work. Instead, it can extend into three dimensions by attaching different shaped items with hook and loop. Three-dimensional models, hand-decorated clothing, tote bags, purses, hair clips, holiday stockings and much more become singular expressions through using hook and loop material.

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.

Hook-and-loop closures have become an integral part of sports. Whether they ensure the proper fit of protective gear or improve the effectiveness of training equipment, these fasteners make many sports safer. Athletes, trainers, coaches and players use hook and loop. Physical education teachers use them in schools. The ability to adjust tightness and length makes them useful in a variety of sports.

Efficiency in a warehouse setting is comprised of three main factors: the productivity of your workers, organization and safety so nothing interrupts the workflow. They can all be helped along with the use of hook and loop fasteners.

Many people around the world use hook and loop for just about anything. There was recently a show which introduced using this fastener to keep your sheets from coming off of the bed. There are plenty of hook and loop tape uses to secure things in place without being seen, a trait that Hollywood finds very useful.

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.

Hook-and-loop fasteners have so many uses that they have even made their way into pop culture. Both in front of the camera and behind it, Hollywood uses hook-and-loop material in numerous ways throughout a production.