From outdoor clothing and camping equipment to bags and soft furnishings, https://www.profabrics.co.uk/search?q=velcroVelcro and hook and loop fastenings are used in countless everyday applications. They're versatile, easy to use and provide a secure fastening that can be opened and closed repeatedly.

But is Velcro the same as hook and loop? And with several different types available, how do you choose the right one for your project?

What's the Difference Between Velcro and Hook and Loop?

The simple answer is that VELCRO® is a brand name, while hook and loop is the generic term for this type of fastening. It's much like people referring to vacuum cleaners as Hoovers, regardless of who manufactures them.

Hook and loop consists of two strips of tape. One has tiny, rigid plastic hooks, while the other has soft, woven loops. When pressed together, the hooks catch the loops, creating a secure but easily removable fastening.

At Point North Profabrics, we stock both genuine VELCRO® Brand products and unbranded hook and loop tape, with a wide selection of colours and widths available.

What Types of Hook and Loop Are Available?

Different projects require different fastenings, so it's worth understanding the options.

Sew-on hook and loop

The most common type, sew-on hook and loop is ideal for joining two pieces of fabric. It's widely used for clothing, bags, outdoor equipment and fabric covers.

Self-adhesive hook and loop

Featuring an adhesive backing, this version can be attached to rigid surfaces such as plastic, wood or metal. For example, self-adhesive hook and loop can be applied to a window frame, with sew-on tape attached to a removable mosquito or midge net.

We also offer combinations with one sew-on side and one self-adhesive side.

Stretch loop

VELCRO® Brand VELSTRETCH® features a stretchy loop side, making it useful for flexible fabrics such as fleece or securing equipment where some movement is required. Only the loop side stretches; it is used in conjunction with sew-on hook or self-adhesive hook.

One-Wrap tape

With hooks on one side and loops on the other, One-Wrap fastens back onto itself. It's useful for bundling and securing items together, such as keeping a pair of skis together during storage.

Hook-receptive fabric

This soft fabric works with hook tape and is ideal for larger applications, including exhibition displays, noticeboards and lining equipment cases.

Can Hook and Loop Be Used Outdoors?

Yes! Hook and loop is suitable for many outdoor applications, although environmental conditions should be considered.

Standard polyester-based hook and loop has reasonable UV resistance, but isn't specifically designed for prolonged UV exposure.

Heat can also soften the glue on self-adhesive versions, potentially affecting their performance on surfaces exposed to strong sunlight.

Most standard hook and loop products are washable, although tumble drying is best avoided, particularly with adhesive-backed versions.

Find the Right Hook and Loop at Point North Profabrics

Whether you're making outdoor clothing, repairing camping equipment or creating something completely new, choosing the right fastening makes all the difference.

At Point North Profabrics, we stock branded VELCRO® and unbranded hook and loop tape in widths from 16mm to 100mm. We can also source specialist products, including flame-retardant options.

Explore our range of hook and loop fastenings, or contact our team for advice on choosing the right product for your project.