Velcro 1950s. The fastener consisted of two components: a lineal fabric strip with tiny hooks that could "mate" with another fabric strip with smaller loops, attaching temporarily, until pulled apart. Initially made of cotton, which proved impractical, the fastener was eventually constructed with nylon and polyester. De Mestral gave the name "Velcro", a portmanteau of the French words "velour" ("velvet") and "crochet" ("hook"), to his invention as well as his company, which continues to manufacture and market the fastening system. Velcro Velcro BVBA is a privately held company that produces fasteners and other products. It is known for being the original
George de Mestral the aerospace industry, where it helped astronauts maneuver in and out of bulky space suits. Eventually, skiers noted the similar advantages of a suit that was easier to get in and out of. Scuba and marine gear followed soon after. De Mestral unsuccessfully tried to update his patent; it expired in 1978. George de Mestral George de Mestral (June 19, 1907February 8, 1990) was a Swiss electrical engineer who invented the hook and loop fastener. He was born to Albert de Mestral, a civil engineer, and Marthe de Goumoëns in Colombier, near Lausanne, Switzerland. De Mestral designed a toy airplane