Double-sided hook and loop tape (also known as double-sided hook and loop strap OR back to back hook and loop tape) is a go-to material for many DIY assistive technology projects. The most well known brand? VELCRO® Brand ONE-WRAP®. It’s flexible, reusable, and forgiving for users with strength or coordination challenges. Whether you’re creating a DIY universal cuff, securing a remote to a wheelchair armrest, or adapting a writing tool, this one material can solve a lot of problems without any extra supplies or frustration.
In this post, we’ll explore why double-sided hook and loop belongs in your assistive tech toolkit, what to keep in mind when using it for accessibility projects, and practical DIY ideas to get started. We’ll also take a quick look at some other handy materials that work well alongside it.
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Why Double-Sided Hook and Loop?
Double-sided hook and loop is exactly what it sounds like—one side is the rough hook material, and the other side is the soft loop material. Because it can wrap around itself, it sticks without needing adhesive. This makes it adjustable, reusable, and mess-free.
A summary of why it works so well for assistive technology:
- No residue: Unlike tapes or adhesives, it doesn’t leave sticky residue on mobility devices, adaptive tools, or furniture.
- Fully adjustable: It allows for easy changes by re-wrapping it or adjusting the length.
- Low strength requirements: Creators don’t need strong grip strength to work with it and you can use the material to create loops and straps that adapt to hand weakness.
- Soft and flexible: The loop side is soft against skin and clothing which works great for wearable adaptations.
- Inexpensive and easy to find: It’s available online and at most hardware or office supply stores.
It’s often overlooked, but this simple material opens up a world of adaptation possibilities that can be customized quickly and adjusted as needs change.
Important Considerations for Accessibility Projects
Before diving into DIY solutions, it’s important to think about user needs and environmental factors. Here are a few things to consider when working with double-sided hook and loop in accessibility projects:
- Grip strength and dexterity: Make sure loops are long enough for easy gripping or can be manipulated one-handed.
- Skin safety: Ask about any material sensitivities prior to use. The edges may be too sharp for thin or delicate skin. Round corners at the ends with scissors as needed. Cover edges with moleskin, self-adhesive bandage wrap, or other soft materials.
- Sensory sensitivities: Some users may find the texture or sound of hook and loop irritating. Test small samples before full implementation.
- Cleaning and hygiene: Hook and loop can collect lint, crumbs, or other debris over time. If hygiene is a concern, look for washable or antimicrobial options, or keep extra replacement straps on hand.
- Durability: Repeated use can wear it down. For high-use applications, check regularly and replace as needed.
- Compatibility: If used on mobility equipment, ensure it won’t interfere with safety features or snag clothing or skin.
This material works well in both short-term fixes and long-term adaptations—just make sure you match your design to the user’s needs.
DIY Assistive Technology Ideas Using Double-Sided Hook and Loop
Here are practical, field-tested ways to use double-sided hook and loop for DIY accessibility tools and adaptations. These ideas work well in home, school, and rehab settings and can often be customized in minutes.
1. DIY Universal Cuff
Wrap a strip around the hand and secure an eating utensil, toothbrush, pen, or stylus in place with additional small pieces. Our step-by-step universal cuff guide shows you how. It’s ideal for users with minimal or absent grasp strength.
Universal cuffs created out of double-sided hook and loop tape2. Lanyards for Keys or Tools
Attach keys, communication devices, or small remotes to a wheelchair armrest, belt loop, or backpack with length adjustable double-sided. It’s an easy way to prevent dropping or misplacing essential items. This works nicely for people with incoordination, tremors, or inability to reach down to the floor.
3. Hand Straps for Handheld Items
Double-sided hook and loop tape is a simple, effective way to create custom hand straps for handheld items like styluses, remote controls, or grooming tools. By wrapping the tape around the object and forming a loop, you can create an adjustable strap that helps users with limited grip keep items securely in hand. It’s a quick, no-sew solution that’s especially helpful for individuals with severe arthritis, limited grasp, paralysis, or coordination challenges.
Straps for handheld items4. Hand Loops for Reachers, Dressing Sticks, and Other Assistive Devices
Add a loop to the handle of a reacher, dressing stick, or long shoe horn for easier holding, hanging, or tethering the device to a chair or walker.
Reacher tool modification using double-sided hook and loop5. Double-Sided Hook and Loop Writing Aids
Wrap double-sided hook and loop around pens and pencils to anchor the writing tool to the user’s hand. This is great for people with poor fine motor control, tremors, or decreased grip strength. Find more ideas in our post: DIY Adaptive Writing Aids for Diverse Needs.
Writing aids created out of double sided hook and loop tape6. Crochet Devices Made out of Double Sided Hook and Loop
Use double sided hook and loop to secure a crochet hook to a hand or finger, or wrap it with foam and secure it for a more ergonomic grip. This can support continued participation in a meaningful hobby when dexterity is limited. Looking for other ideas? Try Accessible Crochet: DIY Adaptations to Craft with Ease.
Crochet devices including yarn stranding guides and a crochet hook holder7. Secure Mobility Device Padding
Instead of taping or gluing foam padding in place, use double-sided hook and loop to attach it. It’s adjustable, repositionable, and doesn’t leave residue behind. This is an excellent way to test adjustments before committing to permanent solutions.
Crutch modifications8. Create Drawer and Door Pulls
Create soft, easy-grip loops to help with opening drawers, cabinets, or doors. You’ll find this specially helpful in home modifications for arthritis, reduced hand mobility, or limited reach due to shoulder impairments.
Cabinet door pull9. Container Helpers
Add a loop to toothpaste caps, makeup containers, food storage lids, and medications bottles to make twisting or pulling easier. This helps people with dexterity challenges or reduced hand strength. Many more ideas can be found in our post on conquering containers.
Container helpers made out of double-sided hook and loop tape10. Custom Switch Mounting
Temporarily secure adaptive switches to wheelchair trays, standers, tabletops, or armrests without using adhesives. This allows users to test switch placement before committing to a permanent setup and makes removal easier during transfers or repositioning.
11. Lap Board or Activity Tray Securement
Secure lap boards or activity trays to a wheelchair, walker, stander, or tabletop using double-sided hook and loop for a stable, yet removable surface.
Beyond Double-Sided Hook and Loop: More Materials to Keep Handy
These ideas are just a starting point. Double-sided hook and loop is versatile on its own, but it works even better when combined with other adaptable materials. Here are a few low-cost favorites worth keeping on hand:
- Binder clips: Simple and strong, binder clips can anchor, secure, or stabilize lightweight items. Pair them with other materials like tubing, tape, or wraps to create DIY grips, supports, or tool holders.
- Key rings: Pair double sided hook and loop with metal key rings to create DIY universal cuffs or to attach the rings to items.
- Zip ties: Zip ties are tried and true for semi-permanent solutions, especially when you want something secure but don’t need to remove it often.
- Duct tape: When you need a strong bond quickly, duct tape won’t let you down!
- Moldable materials: Shape custom grips, knobs, or push button adaptations with moldable materials. Once hardened, they hold up well.
- Rubber bands or elastic loops: Perfect for holding items in place or creating tension-based grips. Check out our post Rubber Bands for Low-Tech Assistive Technology for more ideas.
- Foam tubing: Add bulk to thin handles or protect skin from hard surfaces with foam grip tubing.
- Self-Adhering bandage wrap: By wrapping self-adhering bandage wrap around handles, utensils, or mobility aids, you can quickly improve grip, add cushioning, or customize textures for ease of use.
- Stabilizing materials: Stabilizing materials prevent items from sliding or slipping while in use.
- Looking for more? Check out our 25 Must-Have Materials for DIY Assistive Technology.
Mixing and matching these tools lets you create adaptations that are just right for you or someone else without significant time and money investments.
Final Thoughts: One Double-Sided Strip, Many Solutions
Double-sided hook and loop might not seem like much at first glance, but its versatility and adjustability make it a must-have in any DIY assistive technology toolkit. From wearable aids to home accessibility fixes, it’s a fast, flexible solution that meets users where they are.
