Mastering the Art of Cornrowing with Weave: A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByJill Nammar Weaving

Cornrows are a beloved and timeless hairstyle that have been passed down through generations, originating in Africa and now popular all over the world. But what if you want to achieve the sleek, intricate look of cornrows with the added volume and versatility of weave? Well, look no further because we have the ultimate guide on how to perfect the art of cornrowing with weave. Whether you’re a hairstylist looking to expand your repertoire or a curious individual wanting to try out a new look, this article will equip you with all the knowledge and tips you need to achieve flawless cornrows with weave. So let’s dive in and learn how to slay this iconic hairstyle.

What is Cornrowing with Weave?

Cornrowing, also known as French braiding, is a versatile and popular technique used to create beautiful and intricate hairstyles. When combined with extensions or weave, cornrowing becomes an even more versatile method for hair styling. With the use of weave, a wider range of styles can be achieved, offering more length and volume. This technique has been popular for centuries among people of African descent and has now become a mainstream trend in the beauty industry.

When cornrowing with weave, instead of using your natural hair to create the braids, extensions or weaves are added to enhance the final look. This technique involves creating neat and defined rows of braids close to the scalp, which allows for a smooth and flawless base for adding extensions. The weave provides additional length, giving you endless styling options while protecting your natural hair.

Benefits of Cornrowing with Weave

There are many advantages to cornrowing with weave that make it a favorite among hairstylists and individuals looking for unique and low-maintenance hairstyles. Let’s take a look at some of these benefits:

1. Versatility: One of the major benefits of cornrowing with weave is its versatility. It allows you to create various intricate styles that would be impossible to achieve with just your natural hair. You can add different colors, textures, and lengths to your braids by using different types of weaves.

2. Protects Natural Hair: Cornrowing with weave helps you protect your natural hair from harsh weather conditions that could cause damage or breakage. It also gives your hair a break from heat styling tools such as flat irons or curling wands, reducing the risk of heat damage.

3. Low Maintenance: Once you have your cornrows in place and have added the weave, there is virtually no maintenance required beyond regular washing and conditioning. This makes it perfect for people with busy lifestyles or those who prefer to spend less time on their hair.

4. Increases Length and Volume: Using weave in your cornrow hairstyles allows you to add length and volume, making your hair appear fuller and longer. This is especially beneficial for those with fine or thinning hair.

5. Long-Lasting Style: Properly installed cornrows can last up to 6 weeks, making it a long-lasting hairstyle that allows you to focus on other things without worrying about constantly redoing your hair. This is also a great benefit for people who like to travel frequently.

Types of Weave for Cornrowing

There are several types of weave that can be used when cornrowing, and each has its unique characteristics and advantages.

1. Human Hair Weave: This type of weave is made from 100% human hair, which makes it look and feel just like your natural hair. It offers a more natural look and allows for more styling versatility.

2. Synthetic Hair Weave: Made from synthetic fibers, this type of weave is more affordable than human hair but does not offer the same level of versatility and durability.

3. Lace Frontal Weave: This type of weave features a lace piece at the front that gives the appearance of a natural-looking scalp when properly installed. It allows you to achieve different partings and styles while maintaining a realistic look.

How To Create Cornrows with Weave

Creating cornrows with weave involves several steps, which if done correctly will result in a flawless hairstyle. Here’s how you can achieve the perfect cornrow style using weave:

1. Prepare Your Tools: Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary tools such as a comb, clips, bobby pins, styling gel or cream, and extensions/weave of your choice.

2. Detangle Your Hair: Start by detangling your natural hair to remove any knots or tangles. This will make it easier to create neat and smooth cornrows.

3. Section Your Hair: Using a comb, section your hair into even parts, depending on how many cornrows you want to create. Use clips to secure each section.

4. Add Gel or Cream: Apply a styling gel or cream to each section of hair before braiding. This will help hold the braids in place and give your hair a smooth and sleek finish.

5. Begin Cornrowing: Starting from the front of your head, take a small section of hair and divide it into three equal parts. Begin braiding by crossing the side strands over the middle strand, adding more extensions as you go along.

6. Secure the Ends: Once you have reached the end of each cornrow, use a rubber band or bobby pins to secure the braid in place.

7. Repeat Steps 5-6: Continue this process with each section of hair until you have completed all your desired cornrows.

8. Install Weave: Finally, sew or clip in your desired weave to enhance the overall look and add length.

Tips for Maintaining Cornrows with Weave

Maintaining cornrows with weave

What is Cornrowing with Weave?

Cornrowing with weave is a popular hairstyling technique that involves braiding hair in a specific pattern while incorporating extensions or weave for added length and thickness. This technique allows for a wide range of hairstyles, from simple cornrows to more intricate designs. It has been around for centuries and has roots in African culture, but it has become a popular choice among people of all races and ethnicities.

Cornrowing with weave can be done on both natural hair and relaxed hair, making it a versatile option for anyone looking for a new hairstyle. It can also provide protection for your natural hair, allowing it to grow without being exposed to heat or chemicals from styling tools. Additionally, cornrows with weave are perfect for those who are transitioning from relaxed to natural hair.

The Benefits of Cornrowing with Weave

There are numerous benefits to opting for cornrowing with weave as your chosen hairstyle. One of the main advantages is that it offers versatility. You can choose from different braid sizes, patterns, lengths, and colors to achieve the look you desire. You can also add various beads, clips, or accessories to make your style even more unique.

Cornrowing with weave also saves time when it comes to styling. Once done correctly, cornrowed hair can last up to three weeks before needing any touch-ups. This is especially useful for those who have busy schedules or do not want the hassle of dealing with their hair every day.

Another significant benefit of cornrowing with weave is its protective nature. When extensions are incorporated into the braids, they create a barrier between your natural hair and external factors such as heat and pollutants. This helps maintain the health of your natural hair and prevents breakage.

How To Prepare Your Hair

Before starting the cornrowing process, it’s essential to prepare your hair properly. This will ensure that your hair is healthy and that the extensions blend seamlessly with your natural hair. The first step is to cleanse your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup and dirt.

After washing, deep condition your hair to restore moisture and nourish your strands. This step is crucial because cornrowing can sometimes cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss caused by tightly pulling on the scalp. Deep conditioning will help strengthen your strands and reduce the risk of breakage.

Next, detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. This will make it easier to section and braid your hair once you start the cornrowing process. You can also use a leave-in conditioner or detangler to make detangling even more effortless.

The Cornrowing with Weave Process

Once you have prepared your hair, it’s time to begin the cornrowing process. Follow these steps for a successful outcome:

1. Section Your Hair: Use a rat-tail comb to create neat and consistent sections of hair. The size of each section will depend on the size of braids you want; smaller sections result in smaller braids, while larger sections give bigger braids.

2. Moisturize Your Hair: Before braiding, apply a moisturizer or leave-in conditioner on each section for added hydration.

3. Start Braiding: Take three equal-sized strands from one section and cross them over each other repeatedly until you reach the end of that section.

4. Add Extensions: Once you reach the end of a specific section, add extensions by folding them in half and incorporating them into one strand while continuing to braid.

5.Add More Hair: As you braid, continue adding more extensions into each strand for extra length and thickness until you reach the end of your natural hair.

6.Repeat Braiding: Continue this braiding process until all sections are complete.

7. Secure the Ends: Once you reach the end of your braid, secure it with a rubber band or hair tie.

8. Style: You can choose to leave your braids as they are, create more complex designs, or put them into a specific hairstyle like a bun or ponytail.

Maintaining Cornrows with Weave

To prolong the life of your cornrowed hair, it’s essential to take proper care of it. Here are some tips for maintaining and preserving your cornrows:

– Moisturize regularly using lightweight oils or serums to prevent dryness and breakage.
– Tie your hair up at night with a satin scarf or bonnet to keep your braids in place and prevent frizzing.
– Avoid excessive pulling or tugging on braids to prevent any damage to your natural hair.
– Gently wash your cornrows once a week using diluted shampoo.
– Touch up any loose or frizzy braids as needed to keep your hairstyle looking fresh.

Cornrowing with weave is a fantastic way to spice up your hairstyle while maintaining the health of your natural hair. Not only does it offer versatility, but it also provides protection and saves time when it comes to

Q: What is cornrowing with weave?
A: Cornrowing with weave is a method of braiding natural hair in a specific pattern and attaching hair extensions or a hair weave to create longer, fuller, and more versatile hairstyles.

Q: Can anyone cornrow with weave?
A: Yes, anyone can learn how to cornrow with weave. It may take some practice and patience, but with the right techniques and tools, anyone can achieve beautiful cornrowed hairstyles.

Q: What type of hair should I use for cornrowing with weave?
A: For beginners, it is recommended to use synthetic hair or braiding hair extensions that are easy to handle and less expensive. For more natural-looking results, human hair extensions can also be used.

Q: Do I need special tools to cornrow with weave?
A: The basic tools needed for cornrowing with weave are a rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, bobby pins, and hair extensions. It is also helpful to have a mirror and good lighting for better precision.

Q: How do I prepare my natural hair for cornrowing with weave?
A: It is important to start with clean, detangled hair. If your hair is prone to tangling or breakage, it is recommended to deep condition beforehand. You can also use a leave-in conditioner or styling cream for added moisture and manageability.

Q: What pattern should I follow when cornrowing with weave?
A: The most common pattern used for cornrowing with weave is the traditional african braiding pattern known as a “feed-in” or “inverted” technique. This involves braiding the natural hair horizontally while adding in small sections of extension each time you cross over. However, feel free to experiment and find what works best for your desired hairstyle.

In conclusion, cornrowing with weave is a popular and versatile hairstyle that allows for a variety of styles and looks. The process may seem daunting at first, but with practice and patience, anyone can master the technique of cornrowing with weave. It is important to prepare the scalp and detangle the hair before beginning, as this will create a smoother and neater finished look. Additionally, choosing the right type of weave and properly anchoring it to the cornrows will ensure longevity and durability of the style.

It is also important to remember that cornrowing with weave requires maintenance to prevent damage to both the natural hair and the weave itself. This includes regular washing, conditioning, and moisturizing to keep both the scalp and hair healthy. It is also advisable to seek professional help when in doubt or if experiencing any discomfort or damage.

Furthermore, cornrowing with weave offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. One can experiment with various parting patterns, braid sizes, and added accessories such as beads or hair jewelry. It is also a great protective style for those who want to give their natural hair a break from manipulation or heat styling.

However, it is crucial to understand that cornrowing with weave should not be used as a substitute for proper hair care practices. It should be

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.