Are you ready to transform your hair game with the art of sewing? Hair sewing is a versatile technique that allows you to create endless styles, add volume and length, or even conceal problem areas. Whether you’re a seasoned hair enthusiast or a complete novice, this comprehensive guide will empower you to master the art of hair sewing. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have the confidence to sew your own hair like a pro, saving time and money while unleashing your creativity.
Before embarking on the journey of hair sewing, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials. The primary weapon in your arsenal is a curved hair-sewing needle, specially designed to glide through hair strands without causing damage. You’ll also need a strong yet flexible thread, hair extensions that match your natural hair texture and color, and a pair of sharp scissors. Additionally, consider using a hair net or cap to protect your natural hair and ensure even distribution of extensions.
The process of hair sewing involves carefully sewing the extensions onto your natural hair, starting from the roots. It’s essential to maintain consistent tension throughout the sewing process to ensure a secure hold without causing discomfort or pulling. Moreover, the distance between sewn-in rows should be tailored to the length and thickness of your natural hair, creating a seamless and natural-looking blend.
Materials for Sewing Hair
Hair Weft or Extensions
The most important material for sewing in hair is the hair weft or extensions themselves. These come in a variety of lengths, textures, and colors, so you can choose the perfect match for your own hair. Human hair extensions are the most expensive option, but they are also the most natural-looking and durable. Synthetic hair extensions are less expensive, but they can be less durable and may not look as natural. When choosing hair wefts or extensions, it is important to consider the length, texture, and color of your own hair, as well as the style you want to achieve.
Types of Hair Weft
There are two main types of hair weft: machine-made and hand-tied. Machine-made wefts are made by sewing hair onto a thin strip of fabric, while hand-tied wefts are made by hand-tying hair onto a thin thread. Hand-tied wefts are more expensive than machine-made wefts, but they are also more durable and less likely to shed.
| Type of Hair Weft | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Machine-made | Less expensive More readily available |
Less durable More likely to shed |
| Hand-tied | More durable Less likely to shed |
More expensive Less readily available |
Choosing the Right Sewing Technique
Determining the most suitable sewing technique for your hair extensions depends on factors such as the desired level of volume, texture, and longevity. Here are the primary techniques to consider:
Machine Sewing
Machine sewing involves using a sewing machine to attach the hair extensions to your natural hair. This method is known for its speed, durability, and ability to create a seamless blend. However, it requires specialized equipment and can be more challenging to execute correctly.
Advantages of Machine Sewing
| Advantage | Details |
|---|---|
| Speed | Machine sewing is significantly faster than hand sewing. |
| Durability | Machine-sewn extensions are more robust and less prone to breakage. |
| Seamless Appearance | Machine sewing can create a smooth, undetectable transition between your natural hair and the extensions. |
Disadvantages of Machine Sewing
| Disadvantage | Details |
|---|---|
| Specialized Equipment | You will need a sewing machine and the appropriate attachments. |
| Execution Difficulty | Machine sewing requires skill and practice to achieve optimal results. |
| Can Damage Hair | Improper machine settings or techniques can harm your natural hair. |
Preparing the Hair for Sewing
Brushing and Detangling
Begin by thoroughly brushing the hair to remove any tangles or knots. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush specifically designed for detangling. Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up towards the roots, gently teasing apart any stubborn tangles. This step is crucial to ensure the hair is smooth and tangle-free before sewing.
Washed and Conditioned
Wash and condition the hair to remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any excess product or oils, followed by a deep conditioner to hydrate the hair. Allow the conditioner to sit for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly.
Drying the Hair
After washing and conditioning, towel-dry the hair to remove excess moisture. Avoid using a hair dryer, as the heat can damage the hair and make it more prone to breakage. Instead, air-dry the hair or use a diffuser attachment on the hair dryer to avoid direct heat exposure. Once the hair is completely dry, it’s ready to be sewn.
Blow Drying
If you must blow dry the hair, follow these tips to minimize damage:
| Use a low heat setting | Keep the dryer at least 6 inches away from the hair | Use a diffuser attachment to disperse the airflow |
| Protect hair with a heat protectant spray | Dry hair in sections to avoid overheating |
Inserting the Thread into the Needle
Threading a needle can be a frustrating task, especially if you have poor eyesight or shaky hands. However, with a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to thread needles like a pro in no time. Here are a few tips:
1. Use a needle threader
If you have difficulty threading a needle, you can use a needle threader. This handy tool is available at most fabric and craft stores. To use a needle threader, simply insert the end of the thread into the hole in the needle threader, then push the needle threader through the eye of the needle.
2. Use a magnifying glass
If you have poor eyesight, you may find it helpful to use a magnifying glass when threading a needle. This will help you see the eye of the needle more clearly.
3. Use a thimble
A thimble can help to protect your finger from the needle when you are threading it. Thimbles are available in a variety of sizes and materials, so you can choose one that is comfortable for you.
4. Thread the needle in good lighting
It is important to have good lighting when threading a needle. This will help you see the eye of the needle more clearly. If possible, thread the needle in natural light, such as sunlight or bright daylight. If you are using artificial light, make sure that the light is bright and focused on the needle.
| Here is a table summarizing the tips for threading a needle: |
|---|
|
Stitching the Hair Extensions
5. Secure the Weft with a Locking Stitch
This step is crucial for ensuring the hair extensions remain firmly attached to your natural hair. Here’s a detailed guide to performing a locking stitch:
a. Wrap the thread around the needle, leaving a tail of about 6 inches.
b. Pass the needle through the first hole in the weft, then back through the second hole, holding the hair taut between the holes.
c. Bring the needle and thread back up through the first hole, creating a loop.
d. Insert the needle into the loop and pull it tight, securing the weft to your natural hair.
e. Repeat this process for each hole in the weft, creating a series of uniform stitches.
| Stitch Type | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Basic Stitch | Pass the needle through the holes in the weft and your natural hair, holding the hair taut. |
| Over-Under Stitch | Pass the needle over one hair strand and under the next, creating a criss-cross pattern. |
| Invisible Stitch | Use a clear thread and pass the needle through the weft and the natural hair, hiding the stitches inside the hair. |
Securing the Extensions
Once the tracks are applied, it’s crucial to secure the extensions firmly to prevent slippage and ensure longevity.
6. Interlocking the Extensions (Cornrows)
Weaving the extensions onto cornrows is a classic method that provides a secure and long-lasting hold. Follow these steps:
- Create cornrows parallel to the natural growth pattern of the hair.
- Place a section of the track along the base of a cornrow.
- Using a needle and thread, pass the thread through the loop on the track and then underneath the cornrow.
- Pull the thread tight to secure the track.
- Repeat this process for each section of track.
- Apply a clear sealant or glue to the thread for added durability.
Benefits of Interlocking:
| Benefits |
|---|
| Extremely secure hold |
| Prevents slippage or unraveling |
| Long-lasting wear |
Blending the Extensions with Your Natural Hair
To achieve a seamless blend, it’s crucial to ensure that the extensions match your natural hair texture, color, and length as closely as possible. Here are some steps to help you blend them flawlessly:
1. Trim and Thin the Extensions
Trim any excess length from the extensions to match your natural hair. Thin them out by snipping away small sections of hair near the weft, especially at the crown, to create a more natural appearance.
2. Create Natural Layers
Use a razor comb or thinning shears to create layers in the extensions. This will prevent them from looking bulky and help them blend with your natural layers.
3. Blend with Heat
If your natural hair is textured, use a flat iron to blend the extensions with your own hair. This heat-styling technique will smooth out any differences in texture.
4. Cut and Shape the Weft
Once the extensions are sewn, trim and shape the weft to match your natural hairline. Use a razor comb or scissors to create a seamless transition.
5. Blend with Products
Use hairsprays, gels, or mousses to blend the extensions with your natural hair and reduce any visible lines or bumps. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type.
6. Wash and Style as Usual
Treat the extensions as you would your natural hair. Wash, condition, and style them as usual, using products that are suitable for both hair types.
7. Highlight or Dye the Extensions
If necessary, you can highlight or dye the extensions to match your natural hair color precisely. Be sure to use a professional colorist to avoid damaging the extensions or your own hair.
Caring for Sewed-In Hair Extensions
Washing
Wash your hair as needed, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using products containing sulfates, parabens, or alcohol.
Detangling
Brush your hair regularly with a wide-tooth comb or Denman brush to prevent tangles. Use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to make brushing easier.
Brushing
Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Avoid over-brushing, as this can cause breakage.
Styling
Use heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools. Keep the heat at a low setting and avoid holding the tools too close to your hair.
Nighttime Care
Protect your hair from tangles by sleeping with a satin pillowcase or wearing a silk scarf. Braid or ponytail your hair before bed to reduce friction.
Retouching
As your natural hair grows, the extensions will need to be moved up to maintain a seamless blend. This process, known as retouching, should be done by a professional stylist every 6-8 weeks.
Removal
Sewed-in hair extensions should only be removed by a professional stylist. Attempting to remove them yourself could damage your natural hair.
Tips for Maintaining Sewed-In Hair Extensions
In addition to following the care instructions above, here are some additional tips to help maintain your sewed-in hair extensions:
| Frequency | Action |
|---|---|
| Daily | Brush your hair before going to bed. |
| Weekly | Wash and condition your hair. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep it hydrated. |
| Monthly | Visit your stylist for a retouch or to check the condition of your extensions. |
| As needed | Use styling products sparingly and avoid using products containing harsh chemicals. |
Removing Sewed-In Hair Extensions
Removing sewn-in hair extensions is a meticulous process that requires patience and care. Follow these steps to ensure safe and effective removal:
1. Prepare Your Materials
Gather necessary tools such as hair clippers, scissors, wide-toothed comb, seam ripper or thread cutter, and moisturizing products.
2. Detangle Your Hair
Use the wide-toothed comb to gently detangle both your natural hair and the extensions.
3. Cut the Thread
Locate the threads used to secure the extensions and carefully cut them using a seam ripper or thread cutter.
4. Remove the Extensions
Gently pull the extensions straight up away from your scalp to detach them.
5. Comb and Moisturize
Use the wide-toothed comb to remove any tangles in your natural hair. Apply moisturizing products to restore health and hydration.
6. Trim Split Ends
If necessary, trim split ends from your natural hair to prevent further damage.
7. Deep Condition
Apply a deep conditioner to your natural hair to replenish nutrients and repair any damage caused by the extensions.
8. Maintain Your Hair
Continue to care for your hair with regular washing, conditioning, and deep conditioning treatments to maintain its health.
9. Detailed Instructions for Removing the Threads
| Thread Type | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Regular Thread | Use a seam ripper or thread cutter to carefully cut the thread. |
| Beaded Thread | Use pliers to gently squeeze the beads and slide them off the hair. |
| Bonded Thread | Use a solvent specifically designed for removing bonded extensions. Apply the solvent to the bond, wait a few minutes, and gently separate the extension from your hair. |
Tightness:
If your sewed-in hair feels excessively tight, it can cause scalp irritation. One common reason for tightness is using too much thread or pulling the hair too tightly while sewing it in. To resolve this, carefully loosen the stitches or redo the entire installation using less thread and lighter tension.
Loose Threads:
Loose threads can snag on things or irritate your scalp. Trim any protruding threads close to the hair to minimize discomfort and prevent tangles.
Shed:
Excessive shedding of sewn-in hair can indicate poor-quality hair or improper installation. Check the hair for breakage and ensure it was sewn in securely. If necessary, consult a professional stylist for a reinstallation.
Slippage:
If your sewn-in hair starts to slip out of place, there may be too much weight or tension on the hair shaft. Reduce the number of tracks used or consider moving heavier sections to the back of your head.
Dryness:
Sewed-in hair can become dry and brittle due to reduced exposure to natural oils from your scalp. Regularly deep condition and moisturize the extensions to maintain their health and shine.
Tangling:
Tangled sewn-in hair can be frustrating and time-consuming to brush out. Avoid sleeping on damp or tangled hair and use wide-toothed combs or brushes designed for extensions.
Bacteria Build-up:
Sewed-in hair can trap dirt and bacteria, leading to scalp irritation and odor. Wash your hair regularly and dry it thoroughly to minimize bacteria build-up.
Scalp Irritation:
If you experience scalp redness or itching after installing sewed-in hair, it could indicate a reaction to the thread or weft material. Consult a dermatologist if the irritation persists or worsens.
Allergies:
In rare cases, some individuals may develop allergies to the thread or hair extensions used. Symptoms can include scalp rash, hives, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect an allergic reaction, remove the extensions immediately and seek medical attention.
Incorrect Placement:
Sewing in hair too tightly or too loosely can cause discomfort and damage to your natural hair. Ensure the tracks are evenly spaced and securely attached to your hair without pulling or creating excess tension.
How to Sew Hair
Sew-in hair extensions are a great way to add length, volume, or color to your hair without having to commit to a permanent change. They’re also relatively inexpensive and easy to do yourself with a little practice.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sew hair:
- Gather your materials. You will need hair extensions, a sewing needle and thread, hair clips, a mannequin or a friend’s head to practice on, and a comb.
- Prepare the hair. Wash and condition your hair, and then part it into four sections: the top section, the bottom section, and the left and right sides. Clip the sections up to keep them out of the way.
- Apply the hair extensions. Start by sewing the hair extensions to the bottom section of your hair. Use a small section of hair as your guide, and sew the hair extensions about 1/2 inch away from the scalp. Repeat this process until all of the hair extensions are sewn in.
- Blend the hair. Once the hair extensions are sewn in, use a comb to blend your natural hair with the extensions. This will help to create a seamless look.
- Style your hair. You can style your hair any way you like! But be careful not to brush or comb your hair too vigorously, as this can damage the hair extensions.
People Also Ask About How to Sew Hair
Can I sew hair extensions in myself?
Yes, you can sew hair extensions in yourself with a little practice. However, it can be helpful to have someone assist you with the process.
How long do sew-in hair extensions last?
Sew-in hair extensions can last for up to 3 months, depending on how well you care for them.
How do I care for sew-in hair extensions?
To care for sew-in hair extensions, be sure to wash and condition them regularly. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or heat on the hair extensions.
