Abstract: A method of manufacturing a file fastener from a flat metal strip having top and bottom surfaces with narrow side surfaces therebetween, includes providing an elongate body portion. A prong extends from each end of the body portion, with at least the side surfaces of the prongs having a protective coating. The invention extends to a method of manufacturing a string of file fasteners, each file fastener being of a flat metal strip having an elongate body portion. A prong extends from each end of the body portion, with the file fasteners being connected via frangible bridges.