Indulge in the transformative power of hair extensions, a versatile technique that effortlessly elevates your style. Whether you seek enviable volume, alluring length, or a vibrant splash of color, sewing hair extensions offers a seamless and long-lasting solution. This intricate process involves carefully integrating individual hair strands into your natural hair, creating a natural and undetectable finish. Embrace the artistry of hair extension sewing and unlock the endless possibilities it holds for your personal style.
Before embarking on this transformative journey, it is essential to seek the guidance of a skilled and experienced hair extension specialist. They possess the expertise to assess your hair type, color, and desired results, ensuring a flawless fusion that complements your unique features. The initial consultation will set the stage for a personalized hair extension plan that aligns with your vision and hair goals. With their guidance, you can navigate the world of hair extensions with confidence, knowing that your hair is in the capable hands of a professional who prioritizes your hair health and aesthetic aspirations.
As you踏入the realm of hair extension sewing, you will discover an array of techniques tailored to different hair types and preferences. The most prevalent method involves using a needle and thread to meticulously attach the hair extensions to your natural hair. This technique provides a secure and durable hold, ensuring that your extensions remain firmly in place throughout your daily activities. Other methods employ specialized tools such as fusion bonds or micro beads to achieve a virtually undetectable integration. Your hair extension specialist will carefully select the most appropriate technique based on your individual needs, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.
Preparation and Materials
Preparing the Natural Hair
Before sewing in hair extensions, it’s essential to prepare your natural hair to ensure proper adhesion and minimize damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Wash and Condition: Gently cleanse your hair using a clarifying shampoo and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to remove product buildup and dirt. This creates a clean base for the extensions.
- Detangle: Thoroughly brush or comb your hair from roots to ends, removing any knots or tangles. This prevents matting and breakage during the sewing process.
- Divide and Section: Part your hair into small sections, starting from the nape of the neck. Secure the sections with hair clips or rubber bands to keep them out of the way.
- Create Braids: Starting near the roots, create cornrows or flat braids along the parted sections. The braids should be tight and close to the scalp to provide a sturdy foundation for the extensions.
- Trim Excess Hair: Trim any excess hair from the braids, ensuring that they’re all approximately the same length. This helps create an even and seamless application.
Materials for Sewing In Hair
Gather the following materials before beginning the sewing process:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hair Extensions | The hair pieces you’ll be attaching to your natural hair. |
| Curved Hair Extension Needle | A specialized needle with a curved tip for threading into the braids. |
| Thread | Strong, durable thread specifically designed for sewing in hair extensions. |
| Crochet Hook | (Optional) Can assist in threading the needle through the braids. |
| Edge Control or Pomade | Helps smooth and secure the natural hair along the edges of the braids. |
| Hairspray or Finishing Spray | Provides hold and shine to the finished hairstyle. |
Creating Cornrows
Cornrows are braided sections of hair that are typically worn close to the scalp. They are a popular protective style, as they can help to prevent breakage and tangles. Cornrows can also be used to create a variety of different looks, from simple and elegant to intricate and elaborate.
To create cornrows, you will need the following supplies:
- A comb or brush
- Hair gel or wax
- A rubber band or elastic
Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin the process of creating cornrows.
Step 1: Prepare your hair
Before you begin braiding, it is important to prepare your hair. This will help to make the braiding process easier and will also help to ensure that your cornrows last longer.
Start by combing or brushing your hair to remove any tangles or knots. Then, apply a small amount of hair gel or wax to your hair. This will help to keep your hair in place and will make it easier to braid.
Step 2: Section your hair
Once your hair is prepared, you can begin sectioning it for the cornrows. The number of cornrows you create will depend on the thickness of your hair and the desired look you are trying to achieve.
To section your hair, use a comb or your fingers to create a part down the center of your head. Then, use a rubber band or elastic to secure the hair on one side of the part. Repeat this process on the other side of the part.
Step 3: Braid the cornrows
Once your hair is sectioned, you can begin braiding the cornrows. To braid a cornrow, take a small section of hair from the front of the section and divide it into three equal strands. Cross the right strand over the middle strand, and then cross the left strand over the new middle strand.
Continue braiding in this manner, adding hair from the sides of the section as you go. Once you reach the end of the section, secure the braid with a rubber band or elastic.
Repeat this process for the remaining sections of hair.
Step 4: Style your cornrows
Once all of your cornrows are complete, you can style them as desired. You can leave them loose and flowing, or you can pin them up into a bun or another style.
Here are some tips for styling cornrows:
- Use hair gel or wax to keep your cornrows in place.
- Use bobby pins to secure loose strands of hair.
- Accessorize your cornrows with beads, ribbons, or other hair accessories.
Parting the Hair
Determining the Parting
The first step in sewing hair in is determining where to part the hair. This will depend on the desired hairstyle, facial shape, and hair texture. Here are some tips for choosing the best parting:
- For a natural look, part the hair in the same place it naturally falls.
- For a more dramatic look, part the hair off-center or create a deep side part.
- For a wide forehead, part the hair in the middle or slightly off-center.
- For a narrow forehead, part the hair closer to one side.
Sectioning the Hair
Once the parting is determined, the next step is to section the hair. This will make it easier to sew the hair extensions in. To section the hair:
- Part the hair from one ear to the other.
- Secure the hair on each side with a clip.
- Continue parting and securing the hair until the desired number of sections is achieved.
Creating the Cornrows
The final step in parting the hair is to create the cornrows. Cornrows are small, tight braids that will hold the hair extensions in place. To create cornrows:
- Start at the base of the parting and take a small section of hair.
- Divide the hair into three equal strands.
- Cross the left strand over the middle strand, then the right strand over the left strand.
- Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the cornrow is complete.
| Type of Parting | Best For |
|---|---|
| Middle Part | Narrow forehead |
| Side Part | Wide forehead |
| Off-Center Part | Dramatic look |
Sectioning the Hair
Before you begin sewing in hair, it’s essential to section the natural hair to create a solid foundation for the installation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sectioning your hair:
1. Divide the Hair into Halves
Use a comb or brush to divide your hair into two equal sections, creating a horizontal line from ear to ear. Secure each section with a hair clip or elastic band.
2. Section the Back Half
Take the back half of the hair and divide it into three vertical sections: left, right, and center. Secure each section with a hair tie or clip.
3. Section the Front Half
Divide the front half of the hair into two vertical sections: left and right. Leave the hair around your face and bangs out of the way.
4. Create Cornrows or Braids
For a more secure hold, create cornrows or braids along the sections of hair you have created. This will provide a stable base for the hair extensions and prevent the hair from slipping. Follow these steps to create cornrows:
Creating Cornrows
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start by brushing your hair to remove tangles. |
| 2 | Take a small section (about the size of a dime) of hair from the front of your head. |
| 3 | Divide the section into three equal strands. |
| 4 | Cross the left strand over the middle strand. |
| 5 | Now cross the right strand over the new middle strand. |
| 6 | Continue this process, adding hair from the sides as you go. |
| 7 | When you reach the end of the row, secure the cornrow with a small hair elastic. |
Attaching the Hair Weft
1. Prepare the weft by brushing it thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. Measure the weft against the area of your hair where you want to attach it and trim it to the desired length.
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Apply a thin layer of bonding glue to the weft, avoiding the edges. Wait for 10-15 minutes for the glue to become tacky.
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Section off a small portion of your natural hair equal to the width of the weft. Clip the rest of your hair out of the way.
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Place the weft as close to your scalp as possible without touching it. Gently press the weft into place, holding it firmly for a few seconds.
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Reinforcing the Bond:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Thread and Needle | Using a sharp needle and thread, sew through the weft and your natural hair multiple times to create a secure bond. |
| Microbeads | Clamp tiny metal or silicone beads over small sections of hair, connecting them with the weft to create a firm attachment. |
| Fusion Bonds | Apply heated keratin tips to the weft and your natural hair, fusing them together to create a long-lasting bond. |
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Repeat steps 3-5 until all of the weft is attached to your hair. Avoid overworking the glue as this can weaken the bond.
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Once the weft is secured, brush your hair thoroughly to blend it with your natural hair. Style as desired.
Cornrowing and Securing the Weft
Cornrowing
1. Wash and condition your natural hair thoroughly to remove any dirt or product buildup.
2. Divide your hair into six or more equal sections, depending on the density of your hair.
3. Braid each section tightly from the nape of your neck to the desired length. Secure the ends with hair ties.
Securing the Weft
4. Measure and cut the weft to the desired length.
5. Using a curved needle, thread the weft onto the needle.
6. Weave the weft through the cornrows, about 1-2 inches from the scalp. Keep the stitching tight to secure the weft.
Securing the Weft Using Different Methods
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Over-Under | Thread the needle under the row, then over the adjacent row, and repeat. |
| Up-Down | Thread the needle up through the row, then down through the adjacent row, and repeat. |
| Lock Stitch | Create a loop in the thread, insert the needle into the loop, and pull tight to create a knot. |
7. Continue weaving the weft until it is completely attached.
8. Trim any excess hair from the ends of the weft.
Trimming and Shaping the Hairline
Once the hair is sewn in, you need to trim and shape the hairline to blend it seamlessly with your natural hair. Follow these steps:
1. Part the Hair:
Part your hair into two sections, one above the hairline and one below.
2. Trim the Folded Edge:
Trim any folded edges of the weft that may be visible along the hairline.
3. Angle the Scissors:
Hold the scissors at a slight angle to create a natural taper at the hairline.
4. Cut in Small Sections:
Work in small sections, trimming only a few hairs at a time to avoid over-cutting.
5. Check the Blend:
Regularly check the blend between your natural hair and the sewn-in hair.
6. Create a Curve:
Trim the hairline in a slight curve to match the natural shape of your forehead.
7. Use Layers:
Consider creating some layers near the hairline. This will help the hair blend better and appear more natural. To do this, trim the hair in layers of varying lengths, with the shortest layer at the hairline and the longest layer at the back:
| Layer | Length |
|---|---|
| 1 | Shortest (at hairline) |
| 2 | Slightly longer |
| 3 | Longest (at back) |
Styling and Blending the Hair
Flat Ironing and Curling
Once the hair is sewn in, you can style it with heat tools. Use a flat iron to straighten it, or use a curling iron to create curls or waves. Heat styling can help to blend the sewn-in hair with your natural hair.
Trimming and Layering
After a few weeks, the sewn-in hair may need to be trimmed or layered. This will help to remove any split ends and keep the hair looking healthy. You can have your stylist trim or layer the hair, or you can do it yourself if you have the experience.
Customizing the Color
If you want to change the color of the sewn-in hair, you can have it dyed or highlighted. You can choose to have the hair dyed all one color, or you can have it highlighted to add some depth and dimension. It is important to use a stylist who is experienced in coloring hair extensions, as using the wrong type of dye or bleach can damage the hair.
Blending with Your Natural Hair
To make the sewn-in hair blend seamlessly with your natural hair, you can use a few simple techniques. First, make sure that the hair is the same texture as your natural hair. If your hair is straight, choose straight hair extensions. If your hair is curly, choose curly hair extensions. You can also use hair products to help blend the two types of hair.
Using Hair Products
There are a few hair products that you can use to help blend sewn-in hair with your natural hair. These products include:
| Product | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Hairspray | Holds the hair in place and helps to prevent frizz. |
| Gel | Adds texture and definition to the hair. |
| Pomade | Smooths the hair and helps to control flyaways. |
| Serum | Adds shine and moisture to the hair. |
Maintenance and Care
Maintaining and caring for your sewn-in hair extensions is crucial to ensure their longevity and health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you keep your hair extensions looking their best:
Washing
Wash your sewn-in hair every 2-3 weeks with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Use lukewarm water and avoid using harsh chemicals or heat styling tools.
Drying
Let your hair extensions air dry after washing. Avoid blow drying or rubbing them vigorously with a towel, as this can cause tangles and damage.
Detangling
Gently brush your hair extensions with a wide-tooth comb to remove any tangles. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots.
Styling
You can style your sewn-in hair with heat tools, but avoid excessive heat or direct application to the extensions. Use heat protectant spray when necessary.
Sleeping
Protect your sewn-in hair from tangles and breakage while sleeping by braiding, wrapping, or using a satin pillowcase.
Trimming
Regularly trim your natural hair and the sewn-in extensions to remove split ends and prevent tangles.
Moisturizing
Apply a light leave-in conditioner or serum to the extensions to keep them hydrated and prevent dryness.
Avoid Chlorine
Chlorine in swimming pools can damage your sewn-in hair. Rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water after swimming.
Professional Maintenance
Visit your hairstylist every 4-6 weeks for professional maintenance. They can tighten the extensions, remove any shed hair, and assess the overall health of your extensions.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Loose Hair
Check the tightness of the knots. Ensure they are snug against the natural hair without causing discomfort.
Slipping Braid
Tighten the braid or use hairspray for extra hold. Braid the natural hair closer to the scalp for a more secure base.
Itching
Clean the scalp and hair extensions regularly. Use products specifically designed for braids to prevent product buildup.
Tension on Scalp
Ensure the braids are not pulled too tightly. Adjust the tension and loosen the knots slightly if necessary.
Frizz and Dryness
Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to moisturize the hair and prevent tangles. Avoid using harsh shampoos and heat styling tools.
Thinning Natural Hair
Avoid keeping the extensions in for extended periods (over 6 weeks). Remove them gently to prevent breakage and promote natural hair growth.
Tangling
Brush the hair regularly with a detangling brush. Use a leave-in conditioner to reduce friction and prevent knots.
Shedding
Expect some shedding in the first few days after installation. However, excessive shedding may indicate incorrect installation or poor hair extensions.
Uneven Hair Length
Check the length of the hair extensions before installation. Ensure they match the natural hair length to create a seamless blend.
Bulging Braids
Ensure the braids are evenly distributed and not too thick. Avoid overpacking the braids with hair extensions.
How To Sew Hair In
Sewing hair in is a great way to add length, volume, and color to your hair. It’s a versatile technique that can be used to create a variety of looks, from subtle to dramatic. If you’re new to sewing hair in, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable stylist who can help you achieve the look you want.
The first step in sewing hair in is to choose the right hair extensions. There are many different types of hair extensions available, so it’s important to do your research and find the ones that are right for you. The most important thing to consider is the texture of your own hair. If your hair is fine, you’ll want to choose extensions that are also fine. If your hair is thick, you can choose extensions that are thicker.
People Also Ask
How long does it take to sew hair in?
The time it takes to sew hair in will vary depending on the length and thickness of your hair, as well as the skill of your stylist. However, you can expect the process to take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.
How long does sewn-in hair last?
Sewn-in hair can last anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on how well you care for it. To extend the life of your sewn-in hair, be sure to wash and condition it regularly, and avoid using heat styling tools.
How much does it cost to sew hair in?
The cost of sewing hair in will vary depending on the salon you go to, as well as the length and thickness of your hair. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for the procedure.
