Varying the loop engageability of fastener element arrays

A method of forming an array of fastener elements extending from a common base, the method comprising,

• providing a mold having a mold surface from which an array of fixed hook mold cavities extend inwardly, each mold cavity defining a stem and a crook extending from the stem to a tip in a predetermined direction, the array including a plurality of longitudinal rows of cavities arranged such that, in each row, all of the crooks face in the same direction and parallel to the direction of the row, with the crooks of adjacent rows facing in opposite directions;
• adjusting the registration of adjacent rows so that the longitudinal spacing between opposing tips of adjacent mold cavities of adjacent rows in a first portion of the array being greater than the longitudinal spacing between opposing tips of adjacent mold cavities of adjacent rows in a second portion of the array, for molding an array of hooks having regions of relatively high and low loop engageability;
• delivering moldable resin to the mold, thereby filling the mold cavities and forming the common base;
• solidifying the resin in the cavities to form the fastener elements;
• and
• removing the solidified fastener elements from their corresponding fixed mold cavities by pulling the common base away from the mold surface.