How To Attach Dreadlock Extensions

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Dreadlock extensions are a great way to add length, volume, and style to your natural dreadlocks. They are also relatively easy to attach yourself at home. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to attach dreadlock extensions. We will also provide you with some tips and tricks for getting the best results.

Before you begin, you will need to gather the following supplies:

Dreadlock extensions
Dreadlock hook
Scissors
Comb
Water
Towel

Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin attaching the dreadlock extensions.

To attach the dreadlock extensions, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Start by wetting your natural dreadlocks and the dreadlock extensions. This will help to make the hair more pliable and easier to work with.
2. Use the dreadlock hook to create a small hole in the base of your natural dreadlock.
3. Insert the dreadlock extension into the hole and pull it through until it is about halfway through.
4. Use the dreadlock hook to wrap the loose end of the dreadlock extension around the base of your natural dreadlock.
5. Continue wrapping the dreadlock extension around your natural dreadlock until it is secure.
6. Use the scissors to trim any excess hair from the dreadlock extension.
7. Repeat steps 1-6 until all of the dreadlock extensions are attached.

Choosing the Right Extensions

Synthetic vs. Human Hair

The first major decision when choosing dreadlock extensions is whether to use synthetic or human hair.

Synthetic	Human Hair
Less expensive	More expensive
Less durable	More durable
More prone to tangling	Less prone to tangling
Not heat-resistant	Heat-resistant
Limited color options	Wider range of color options

Synthetic dreadlocks are made from synthetic fibers such as Kanekalon, Toyokalon, or acrylic. They are typically less expensive than human hair extensions and are available in a wider range of colors. However, they are also less durable, more prone to tangling, and not heat-resistant.

Human hair dreadlocks are made from real human hair. They are more expensive than synthetic dreadlocks but are also more durable, less prone to tangling, and heat-resistant. They are also available in a wider range of colors and textures, making them a more natural-looking option.

Preparing Your Hair

Before attaching dreadlock extensions, it’s essential to prepare your natural hair to ensure proper bonding and a seamless look. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Cleanse and Clarify

Thoroughly wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup, dirt, and oils. This will create a clean base for the extensions to adhere to.

Step 2: Dreadlock Preparation

If you have existing dreadlocks, you need to tighten them up. This can be done using a crochet hook or retwisting the dreads with your fingers. If you don’t have dreadlocks, you can create them using the interlocking or backcombing method.

Dreadlock Preparation Method	Description
Interlocking	Two sections of hair are wrapped around each other to create a knot.
Backcombing	Hair is backcombed and matted together, then wrapped with thread or yarn.

Step 3: Divide and Section

Divide your hair into small sections, about 1-2 inches wide. This will make it easier to attach the extensions and distribute them evenly.

Sectioning Your Hair

Sectioning your hair is the first step in attaching dreadlock extensions. This will help you to create even, consistent rows of extensions that blend seamlessly with your natural hair.

Parting Your Hair

To begin, part your hair down the center of your head. Then, create two additional parts, one on either side of the center part, about 2 inches from the center part. These three parts will form the base rows for your dreadlock extensions.

Creating Rows

Once you have parted your hair, you can start creating rows. To do this, use a rattail comb or a crochet hook to create small, even sections of hair. These sections should be about 1 inch wide and 2 inches deep.

Securing the Rows

Once you have created your rows, you need to secure them so that the dreadlock extensions can be attached. To do this, you can use a variety of methods, including:

• Elastic bands: Elastic bands are a quick and easy way to secure your rows. Simply wrap an elastic band around each row, just below the base of the row.

• Thread: Thread is another option for securing your rows. To use thread, simply tie a knot in the end of the thread and then thread the needle through the base of the row. Once you have threaded the needle through the base of the row, tie another knot to secure the thread.

• Bobby pins: Bobby pins can also be used to secure your rows. To use bobby pins, simply insert the bobby pin into the base of the row, just above the elastic band or thread.

Method	Pros	Cons
Elastic bands	Quick and easy to use	Can be difficult to remove
Thread	Secure and long-lasting	Time-consuming to apply
Bobby pins	Easy to remove	Not as secure as other methods

Attaching the Extensions

4. Crochet Hook Method

The crochet hook method is a popular way to attach dreadlock extensions that involves using a crochet hook to loop the base of the extension to your own hair. This method is suitable for both backcombed or natural dreadlocks and offers a secure and seamless blend. Here’s a detailed guide to using the crochet hook method:

Step 1: Prepare the Extension

Separate a small section of your hair where you want to attach the extension.
Create a small loop at the base of the synthetic dreadlock extension.

Step 2: Insert the Crochet Hook

Hold the crochet hook perpendicular to your scalp and insert it into the base of your dreadlock, a few inches from the root.
Pull the crochet hook through the dreadlock, creating a loop.

Step 3: Loop the Extension

Hook the loop at the base of the extension onto the hook and pull it through the loop you created in step 2.
Tighten the knot by pulling the two ends of the extension.

Finishing Touches:

Trim any excess hair from the base of the knot to create a smooth transition.
Check the tightness of the knot and adjust as needed to prevent the extension from slipping out.

Looping the Extensions

Looping is a simple and versatile method that works well for all hair types. Follow these steps to loop in your dreadlock extensions:

Materials:

Item
Crochet hook (4mm – 8mm)
Extension hair
Clips or hair ties

Step 1: Divide and Section

Divide your hair into small sections and clip or tie off the sections you’re not working on. Separate a section of your natural dreadlock and a section of the extension dreadlock.

Step 2: Insert the Crochet Hook

Insert the crochet hook into the center of the natural dreadlock, about an inch from the root.

Step 3: Hook the Extension

Loop the extension dreadlock over the tip of the crochet hook. Pull the extension dreadlock through the natural dreadlock.

Step 4: Create a Loop

Hold the two ends of the extension dreadlock and slide them over the hook to create a loop. Pull the loop to tighten it around the natural dreadlock.

Step 5: Repeat

Repeat steps 1-4 for the rest of the extension dreadlocks. Ensure that the loops are tight and secure to prevent slippage.

Step 6: Tidy Up

Trim any loose ends from the extensions and smooth out any bumps or knots to create a seamless blend between your natural and extension dreadlocks.

Tightening the Roots

Once your dreadlocks have been extended, you may find that the roots have become loose over time. This is a common occurrence, especially if you have recently washed your hair or if the extensions were not installed correctly. To tighten the roots, you will need the following:

A locking tool (such as a crochet hook, dreadlock hook, or latch hook)

A spray bottle filled with water

A towel or rag

To tighten the roots, follow these steps:

Wet the roots of your dreadlocks with water. This will help to make the hair more pliable and easier to work with.

Use the locking tool to hook the hair at the root of the dreadlock. Pull the hair through the loop and tighten it.

Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the roots of your dreadlocks are tight.

Use a towel or rag to dry your dreadlocks.

Style your dreadlocks as desired.

Tips for Tightening the Roots:

Be gentle when tightening the roots. If you pull too hard, you could damage your hair.

If you are having difficulty tightening the roots, you can ask a friend or family member for help.

You can also use a dreadlock tightening product to help hold the roots in place.

Tools	Description
Dreadlock hook	A tool specifically designed for dreadlock maintenance.
Latch hook	A tool typically used for latch hooking.

Sealing the Roots

7. Using a Hair Dryer to Lock the Roots

This method is ideal for sealing the roots of palm-rolled or crochet-hooked dreads.

Divide your dreadlock extensions into small sections using hair clips.
Direct a hairdryer’s low-heat setting at the roots of each section for 2-3 seconds.
As you heat the roots, gently pull on the dreads to create tension and lock the fibers together.
Repeat this process until all the root areas are sealed.

Additional Tips for Using a Hair Dryer:

• Use a diffuser attachment to evenly distribute the heat.
• Keep the hairdryer moving to avoid burning the hair.
• Allow the roots to cool completely before handling or styling the dreads.

Method	Suitability
Wax	Synthetic and Human Hair Extensions
Hot Water Soak	Human Hair Extensions
Hair Dryer	Palm-Rolled or Crochet-Hooked Dreads

Styling the Extensions

Once your dreadlock extensions are attached, you can style them to your liking. Here are some tips for styling dreadlock extensions:

8. Accessorize

You can accessorize your dreadlock extensions with beads, feathers, or other decorative items. This is a great way to add a personal touch to your style. You can also use accessories to hold your dreadlocks in place or to create different looks.

Here are some ideas for accessorizing your dreadlock extensions:

1. Beads: Beads can be added to your dreadlocks to add color or texture. You can also use beads to create different designs or patterns in your dreadlocks.
2. Feathers: Feathers can be added to your dreadlocks to add a touch of whimsy or drama. Feathers can also be used to create different looks, such as a Mohawk or a bun.
3. Other decorative items: Other decorative items that you can add to your dreadlocks include ribbons, yarn, or fabric scraps. Get creative and experiment with different items to find what you like best.
4.

Here is a table with some examples of accessories that you can use to style your dreadlock extensions:

Accessory	Description
Beads	Small, colorful beads that can be added to dreadlocks to add color or texture.
Feathers	Long, thin feathers that can be added to dreadlocks to add a touch of whimsy or drama.
Ribbons	Narrow strips of fabric that can be tied around dreadlocks to add color or texture.
Yarn	Thick, soft yarn that can be wrapped around dreadlocks to add color or texture.
Fabric scraps	Small pieces of fabric that can be tied or wrapped around dreadlocks to add color or texture.

Maintaining Dreadlock Extensions

Keeping dreadlock extensions looking their best requires regular maintenance. Here are some tips to help you maintain your dreadlock extensions:

1. Wash your hair regularly.

Washing your hair every 1-2 weeks will help remove dirt and product buildup. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for dreadlocks.

2. Moisturize your dreadlocks.

Moisturizing your dreadlocks will help keep them soft and prevent them from becoming frizzy. Use a dreadlock cream or oil designed to penetrate the hair shaft.

3. Avoid using heat on your dreadlocks.

Heat can damage dreadlocks, so avoid using hair dryers, flat irons, or other heat styling tools.

4. Protect your dreadlocks from the elements.

When you’re out in the sun or rain, wear a hat or scarf to protect your dreadlocks from the elements.

5. Sleep on a satin pillowcase.

Sleeping on a satin pillowcase will help reduce friction and prevent your dreadlocks from drying out.

6. Get regular trims.

Getting regular trims will help remove split ends and keep your dreadlocks looking neat and tidy.

7. Avoid using products that contain alcohol.

Products that contain alcohol can dry out dreadlocks and make them frizzy.

8. Be patient.

It takes time for dreadlocks to mature and develop their full character. Be patient and don’t get discouraged if your dreadlocks don’t look perfect right away.

9. Dreadlock Maintenance Schedule**

Task	Frequency
Wash your hair	Every 1-2 weeks
Moisturize your dreadlocks	Weekly
Avoid using heat	Always
Protect your dreadlocks from the elements	As needed
Sleep on a satin pillowcase	Every night
Get regular trims	Every 4-6 weeks
Avoid using products that contain alcohol	Always

Removing Dreadlock Extensions

Once you’re ready to say goodbye to your dreadlock extensions, there are a few different methods you can use to remove them. The best method for you will depend on the type of extensions you have and how they were installed.

10. Crochet Method

The crochet method is a popular way to remove dreadlock extensions. It involves using a crochet hook to carefully pull the extensions out of your natural hair. This method is relatively gentle and can be used to remove most types of dreadlock extensions. However, it can be time-consuming, especially if you have a lot of extensions.

To remove dreadlock extensions using the crochet method, you will need:

A crochet hook
A comb
A pair of scissors

Instructions:

Start by combing your hair to remove any tangles.
Use the crochet hook to gently pull the extensions out of your natural hair. Start at the root of the extension and work your way down to the tip.
Be careful not to pull too hard, as this could damage your natural hair.
Once you have removed all of the extensions, use the scissors to trim any remaining hair.

Pros	Cons
Gentle on natural hair	Time-consuming
Can be used to remove most types of dreadlock extensions	Can be difficult to remove extensions that are tightly installed