Hook and loop fasteners, perhaps more commonly known as a Velcro hook loop fastener or Velcro, is not just for clothing or to fasten the back of children's costumes at Halloween. The industrial hook and loop fastener can either be sewn or adhered with adhesive, and some of the industrial hooks can even withstand temperatures over 200 degrees F.

Hook and loop fasteners education and training should include the various types of hook & loop fasteners as well as which type of hook and loop fastener works best with various applications. Industrial hook and loop fasteners are a different breed than their mild-mannered clothing cousins. Consider these options as part of your education:

1. Learn when to use sew on hook fasteners.

2. Use adhesive hook and loop fasteners to their best advantage.

3. Make use of industrial hook and loop fasteners.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get the most of sew on hook fasteners

Sew on hook fasteners to rely on being sewed in place, rather than adhesive, like other hook & loop fasteners. Sewing on the fasteners can take more time than securing hook fasteners with adhesive. However, this type of hook fastener works well in not only clothing, but on supplies like bags (from carpenter's bags to computer bags and more), and practically anything else. A bonus is that the sewn in hooks and loops tend to be softer, so they work especially well with clothing.

I recommend: Overview of VELCRO Brand Products and Definitions has some helpful information that discusses sewn on hooks and loop fasteners. The Garden Web has a helpful discussion on sewing on hook and loop fasteners.

Use adhesive-backed hook and loops fasteners

Adhesive-backed hooks and loops fasteners work well on non-porous surfaces, which means that these fasteners can work well in more heavy-duty applications. For example, adhesive-backed hooks and loops fasteners can secure cabinet doors or walls. Some of the adhesive-backed hooks and loops fasteners come off easily, so that they can be for use in temporary applications where damaging the paint is a concern.

I recommend: Velcro 95005: Removable Adhesive Hook and Loop Fasteners is a good review of adhesive-backed hook and loop fastener that is easily removable. Cable Organizer has a good section on the various adhesive-backed hook and loop fasteners and their uses.

Employ industrial hook and loop fasteners

These hook and loop fasteners are the work horses of the hook and loop fastener world. If you need these fasteners to withstand insane temperatures or stick despite oil, then these are the fasteners for you.

I recommend: Perfectex does sell military-grade hook and loop fasteners, but the detailed information it provides about the product is very helpful to anyone's hook and loop fasteners education and training. Velcro has some helpful information about their fasteners.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you have any concerns or do not know which hook and loop fastener to use, contact the manufacturer. They can provide information that can further help you in your search for the best fastener.

Hook and loop fastening products are available in a wide array of styles and sizes, as are industrial hook and loop fasteners, and can be customized to suit your specific business needs. Carefully consider your business needs when shopping for hook and loop suppliers to make sure your needs can be met easily and quickly.

Hook & loop fasteners are available at home improvement stores and grocery stores, but consider any unique features you require in your hook and loop before buying a generic product. Regardless of whether you need industrial hooks or a hook and loop product suitable for the medical field, there are hook and loop manufacturers who will customize the product to your special needs.

1. Consider customer service when evaluating hook and loop manufacturers.

2. Review the hook and loop products available.

3. Take advantage of hook and loop brochures and samples.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Customer service counts with hook and loop distributors

Customer service is a critical part of any distribution relationship. You need to know that any questions you have will be answered quickly, appropriately and fully so you can get on with your business. In addition, customer service can help you with shipping or billing questions.

I recommend: Uline Shipping Supplies offers 24 hour customer service via telephone, fax, email and live chat while Textol Systems offers a customer service center where you can find their telephone and fax numbers, along with their customer service email.

Look for companies that have a variety of products including industrial hook and loop

Chances are good you'll eventually need more type or style of hook fasteners and that will most likely include industrial hooks. When you're considering your supplier, make sure they can meet all of your needs, including fire retardant, industrial hook and loop fastener and hook fasteners in a variety of strengths and colors.

I recommend: National Webbing Products offers a variety of strength of hook and loop fasteners as well as heat resistant, cold resistant and specialized cuts. Industrial Tape & Supply Company offers a wide array of hook and loop products including 30 colors and industrial strength hook and loop.

Find hook and loop manufacturers with brochures and samples

Take advantage of printed materials such as brochures and catalogs and request samples of the products prior to placing your order. By reviewing their catalogs, you can familiarize yourself with their products at your own pace and a sample of the product will allow you to scrutinize the quality so you know what to expect when you place an order.

I recommend: Converters Inc. offers a free brochure so you can peruse their products in the comfort of your office while Can Do national Tape will send you a free sample of their product, allowing you to review their quality prior to placing a large order.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consider specialized hook and loop fastener products such as those suitable for the medical field or high cycle, meaning they'll function for much longer periods of time.