A photo of Stephen Ira

Stephen Ira

Owner and President

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

10 Ways to Baby Proof Your House

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Nov 16, 2023

Hook and loop fasteners are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of purposes around the house. It is especially useful for baby proofing, as it can be used to create a barrier between your baby and potential hazards. It's also easy to keep on hand, and can offer a quick fix. Here are 10 ways to use hook and loop tape to baby proof your house:

Happy Easter From HookandLoop.com!

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Nov 22, 2023

It's that time of year again, when bunnies hop around, eggs are hidden, and chocolate is consumed in mass quantities. You might be wondering what hook and loop has to do with Easter, and we've got just the answer for you! Hook and loop fasteners are used in a variety of applications, from clothing and sports gear, to medical devices and strapping. But there are also plenty of fun ways to use these versatile fasteners when decorating for Easter!

Cherry Blossoms Are In Bloom And So Are Our Springtime Hook and Loop Colors!

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Apr 22, 2026

It's Springtime and the cherry blossoms are in bloom and so is our pink and neon pink hook and loop! We stock 25 hook and loop colors in our DuraGrip Brand Sew On products and 16 different colors in our DuraGrip Brand Adhesive Backed hook and loop products.

Strap Samples With Your Custom Logo For Just $95!

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Jun 21, 2024

If you're familiar with HookandLoop.com, you may already know we offer a quick sample service where we make four custom straps for $20, including shipping. We're also able to print your company logo, or any custom imaging, onto these straps for just $95.

HookandLoop.com Shipping Transit Times

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Jan 18, 2023

At HookandLoop.com, we're always looking for ways to be more transparent about our process. That includes shipping transit times. Now, how long an order takes to ship depends on the product being ordered, whether we are holding stock on that item, how much is being ordered, and so much more. But once an order leaves our facility, it can take anywhere from 1-5 business days to arrive. But how long will it take to get to you?

Hook and Loop Quality Control Measures

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Jun 21, 2024

We manufacture custom straps at HookandLoop.com, and part of that process includes quality controls. There are lots of ways we make sure that the products you receive meet customer expectations. Specifications and tolerances play a role in determining if additional effort is needed, and that can include custom jigs, measuring fixtures, and random inspections of material throughout the manufacturing process. We're happy to do anything a customer wants done to ensure they're getting exactly what they want.

Hook and Loop Variance and Tolerances

AI 3 min read

Updated On: Jun 21, 2024

Hook and loop fasteners are a handmade fabric that is woven. Because of this, it does not fit into tight boilerplate tolerances a lot of drawings might require. Simply playing with the material might be enough to take these products outside of tolerances set by drafting software that is used to working with machined metal parts. Despite these limitations, there are still very reasonable tolerances and variances for hook and loop products.

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HookandLoop.com's Products

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Jun 21, 2024

At HookandLoop.com, we obviously sell hook and loop fasteners, but that means we carry tons of different product options you may not be aware of. Here are some of our most popular products.

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Camping With Hook And Loop

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Apr 5, 2024

Camping is a great pastime for enjoying the outdoors, nature, and relaxation. Sometimes it's difficult for newcomers to set up and take down their camping gear. And with so many products out there, it's easy to weigh down your pack or vehicle with unnecessary equipment. Here are some great tips on how to use hook and loop to make your life easier on the campground.
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Sewing Machines

AI 2 min read

Updated On: Nov 22, 2023

At HookandLoop.com, we have six industrial sewing machines for manufacturing sewn straps. We have 1 Tacsew and 5 Consews. These manufacturers have been around for a long time and provide the best equipment in the industry. If you're interested in our sewing services, you can also email us.