Master the Art of Sew Ins: A Step-by-Step Guide on How To Do It Like a Pro!

Are you tired of trying to achieve the perfect hairstyle, only to end up with a frizzy mess or an awkward cut? Look no further than sew ins – a popular hair extension technique that has been around for decades. Whether you’re new to the world of sew ins or simply looking for some tips and tricks, this article will guide you in achieving flawless sew ins every time. Say goodbye to bad hair days and hello to a new level of confidence with our step-by-step guide on how to do sew ins. Get ready to unlock the secrets behind this versatile and long-lasting hairstyle that is sure to turn heads wherever you go. So, grab your needle and thread and let’s get started!

A Beginner’s Guide to Sew Ins

Sew ins, also known as sewn-in hair extensions or sewn-ins for short, are a popular and versatile way to add length and volume to your hair. This method involves sewing wefts of hair onto tracks or braids that are tightly secured against your natural hair. Whether you are looking to add some oomph to your everyday look or want to switch up your style for a special occasion, sew ins can be the perfect solution. However, this method can also be intimidating for beginners. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to do sew ins.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Hair

Before you even get started with the actual sewing process, it’s important to choose the right type of hair for your sew in. You’ll want something that blends well with your natural hair color and texture. You can opt for real human hair or synthetic hair, both have their pros and cons. Human hair tends to look more natural and can be styled and colored just like your own hair, but it is more expensive. On the other hand, synthetic hair is more affordable but may not have the same durability as human hair.

Step 2: Preparing Your Hair

To ensure a smooth application process and a seamless blend between your natural hair and extensions, it’s crucial to properly prepare your own strands before starting on the sew in. Start by washing and conditioning your hair with sulfate-free products. Next, detangle your locks using a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush and make sure they are completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Sectioning Your Hair

Sectioning is essential when it comes to sew ins as it helps create a solid foundation for attaching the extensions. Start by creating a horizontal parting at the nape of your neck and clip up the top section of hair. Then, create a small braid or cornrow along the parting and secure it with a small hair elastic. Repeat this process, creating rows of braids all the way up to the crown of your head.

Step 4: Sewing in The Extensions

Once your hair is properly sectioned, it’s time to start attaching the extensions. Start by sewing on the bottom row of extensions, starting from one side and working your way to the other. Lay a weft of hair against your scalp, aligning it with the first braid or cornrow. Using a curved sewing needle and Nylon thread, stitch through the weft and braided track until it is securely attached.

Continue this process for each row of braids, making sure to add enough extensions for your desired volume and length. To create a natural-looking finish, make sure to sew in smaller pieces of hair towards your hairline.

Step 5: Styling Your Sew In

Once all the extensions are sewn in, you can style your new look any way you like! You can blend in any additional layers or trim any excess lengths to create an even and seamless appearance. You can also curl or straighten your sew-in just like you would with your natural hair.

Step 6: Proper Maintenance

To ensure that your sew in lasts as long as possible, proper maintenance is key. Avoid using heavy products such as oils or serums near where the tracks are sewn in as this can weigh down and cause damage to both your natural hair and extensions. Use lightweight products designed for extensions to moisturize your locks instead.

To keep frizz at bay, invest in a silk scarf or bonnet to wear while sleeping. And when it’s time to take out your sew in, make sure to be gentle and use scissors rather than ripping or pulling at the threads.

Bonus Tips and Tricks

– It’s best to have a professional hairstylist install your sew in, especially if you’re new to this method. They have the expertise and experience to ensure that you get the best results.

– If you are attaching synthetic hair, it’s important to avoid using heat tools as this can melt the fibers. Instead, opt for cool styling methods like rollers or braids.

– In addition to sewing in extensions, you can also use clip-ins or tape-ins for a temporary boost of length and volume.

Conclusion

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be on your way to achieving a flawless sew in. Just remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right. With time and patience, you’ll become a pro at doing your own sew ins. And with so many hair colors, textures, and lengths available in extensions, the possibilities are endless! Have fun experimenting with different styles and rock your new look with confidence.

Sew In Basics

Sewing in your own hair or someone else’s can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and techniques, it can become a simple and often preferred method for adding length or volume to your natural hair. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced stylist, here are the basics of how to do sew ins.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand what a sew-in is. A sew-in is a method of attaching wefted hair extensions to the natural hair using thread and a needle. This method allows for a long-lasting and secure hold without damaging the natural hair. Sew-ins are also versatile as they allow for various styling options such as ponytails, braids, and updos.

The first step in doing a sew-in is choosing the right wefted extensions. It’s essential to select high-quality human hair extensions that match the texture and color of your natural hair. This ensures a seamless blend and natural look once they are installed.

Preparing Your Hair

Before starting the sew-in process, it’s vital to prepare your hair properly. Begin by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to ensure all dirt and oils are removed. Then, gently detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb.

Next, braid your natural hair into cornrows that closely mimic your desired parting pattern. These braids serve as the base for sewing in the extensions, so make sure they are neat and evenly spaced. Secure each braid with small rubber bands at the ends.

If you’re sewing in extensions on someone else’s hair, make sure their scalp is clean before starting. Gently massage their scalp with shampoo and then condition their hair before beginning.

The Sew-In Process

Now that you have prepared your natural hair and chosen your extensions, it’s time to start sewing them in. Here’s a step-by-step guide to a basic sew-in process:

1. Begin by creating a straight parting line on your head with a rat-tail comb. This will be used as a guide for sewing in the extensions.

2. Thread a weaving needle with strong, non-toxic thread, preferably in the same color as your hair.

3. Lay the first extension weft along the parting line, making sure it is lined up evenly. Take care not to pull too tightly or too loosely when securing the thread.

4. To attach the weft to your braided hair, use an overcast stitch (also called whipstitch). This technique involves looping the needle under and over the braid and then through the weft. Continue sewing until you reach the end of the extension weft.

5. Repeat this process for each extension, working closely to your parting line and securing them in an end-to-end fashion until you reach the crown of your head.

6. Once you have reached your desired thickness, cut off any excess weft and leave some loose hair at the crown to cover any potential tracks showing.

7. For those with leave-out (natural hair left out on one or both sides), use smaller extensions and sew them around the perimeter of your leave-out area.

8. After all extensions are sewn in, blend any remaining leave-out with a flat iron or another styling tool to create an even look between your natural hair and extensions.

Tips for Maintaining Your Sew-In

Now that you have successfully installed your sew-in, here are some tips for maintaining it:

– Be gentle when brushing or combing your sew-in to avoid pulling out any tracks or damaging your natural hair.
– Use sulfate-free products when washing and conditioning to prevent drying out both your natural hair and extensions.
– Avoid using heavy oils or products near the roots of your sew-in, as this can cause the extensions to slip out.
– Invest in a silk scarf or pillowcase to protect your sew-in while sleeping, as cotton can cause friction and lead to tangling.
– Visit a professional stylist for maintenance appointments every 2-3 weeks to ensure your sew-in stays securely in place and any necessary touch-ups are done.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to do sew ins takes practice and patience, but once you master the technique, it can be a great option for adding length or volume to your natural hair. Remember to always use high-quality extensions and take good care of them to maintain their longevity. And when in doubt, seek the help of a professional stylist for best results. Happy sewing!

1) What are sew ins and how do they differ from other hair extension methods?
A sew in is a type of hair extension method where the wefts of hair are sewn onto the hair using a needle and thread. This differs from methods like clip-ins or tape-ins, which use clips or adhesive to attach the wefts.

2) What type of hair can be used for a sew in?
Typically, human hair is recommended for sew ins as it blends seamlessly with natural hair. However, high-quality synthetic hair can also be used for those on a budget.

3) How long does a sew in typically last?
Sew ins can last anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks depending on the method used and how well the extensions are cared for. It is important to follow maintenance tips to ensure longevity.

4) How do I prepare my natural hair before getting a sew in?
Before getting a sew in, it is important to thoroughly wash and condition your natural hair. It is also recommended to detangle and trim any split ends beforehand.

5) Can I still style my hair with a sew in?
Yes, you can still style your hair with a sew in. However, be cautious when using heat tools as they can damage the extensions if not used properly. It is best to use heat protectant products and avoid direct heat on the wefts.

6) How do I take out my sew in without damaging my natural hair?
To remove a sew-in safely, carefully cut the thread or ask a professional stylist for help. Avoid pulling or tugging on the extensions as this can cause damage to your natural hair. Properly untangling and washing your natural hair after removal is also important to maintain its health.

In conclusion, learning how to do sew ins can be a valuable skill for anyone interested in hair styling and maintenance. It allows for versatility in hairstyles and can save time and money compared to frequent salon visits. However, it is important to thoroughly educate oneself on the techniques, products, and maintenance involved in sew ins before attempting to do them.

Key takeaways from this discussion include properly preparing the hair for sew ins by deep conditioning and ensuring the braids are neat and tight, using high-quality products such as wefts with minimal shedding and needle/thread that are gentle on the scalp, and carefully installing the extensions with proper tension to avoid damage.

Moreover, understanding the different types of sew ins (ex. traditional, vixen, versatile) and knowing which would best suit one’s hair type and desired style is crucial. This also applies to removing sew ins correctly to prevent unnecessary breakage or damage.

Another important aspect to consider is maintaining the sew ins by properly washing, moisturizing, and protecting them at night. It is also recommended to enlist the help of a professional stylist when it comes to cutting or trimming the extensions.

In summary, while learning how to do sew ins may seem daunting at first, with proper education and practice one can achieve beautiful results. However, it

Author Profile

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.