Master the Art of Hair Extensions: Your Guide to DIY Sew Ins

Have you been dreaming of long, luscious locks but don’t want to break the bank at a salon? Look no further – do it yourself sew in hair extensions are here to save the day! In recent years, the popularity of DIY sewing in hair extensions has skyrocketed as an affordable and customizable alternative to traditional salon methods. Whether you’re trying to add volume, length, or just switch up your look, sew in hair extensions offer a convenient and budget-friendly solution. So toss aside those expensive salon appointments and grab your needle – let’s learn all about do it yourself sew in hair extensions.

What Are Sew In Hair Extensions?

Sew in hair extensions are a popular method of hair extensions that is both versatile and long-lasting. They involve attaching wefts of hair onto the natural hair using a needle and thread to create a secure and seamless blend. This technique is also referred to as a weave or track extensions.

Unlike other methods such as clip-ins or tape-ins, sew in extensions are meant to be worn for an extended period of time, typically 6-8 weeks before needing to be redone. This makes them ideal for those looking for a semi-permanent solution to add length, volume, or even color to their natural hair.

There are two main types of sew in hair extensions: traditional sew ins and braidless sew ins. Traditional sew ins involve braiding the natural hair into cornrows and then sewing the wefts onto the braids. Braidless sew ins, on the other hand, use microbeads or braidless thread to create small anchors for the wefts to be attached.

Why Choose Sew In Hair Extensions?

Sew in extensions offer many benefits that make them a popular choice among those looking for a long-term solution for their hair needs.

Firstly, they provide versatility in terms of styling. Since the wefts are securely attached to the natural hair, you can style your hair as you normally would without worrying about them falling out or shifting. This means you can experiment with different hairstyles without any limitations.

Moreover, sew in extensions offer great longevity compared to other methods. With proper care and maintenance, they can last up to 3 months before needing to be redone. This makes them an economical choice in the long run since you won’t have to constantly replace them.

Another advantage of sew in extensions is that they provide full coverage. The wefts are strategically placed on the whole head, giving a seamless blend with the natural hair. This makes them perfect for those with thin or fine hair who are looking to add volume and thickness.

Furthermore, sew in hair extensions are low maintenance. Once installed, they require minimal upkeep and can be treated like your own natural hair. You can wash, blow-dry, and style them as you would normally without any special products or tools.

How to Properly Install Sew In Hair Extensions

While it is possible to install sew in hair extensions at home, it is highly recommended to have them installed by a professional stylist to ensure the best results. However, if you do decide to install them yourself, here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare your natural hair: Make sure your hair is clean and dry before beginning the installation process. If needed, color or cut your hair beforehand for a seamless blend.

2. Create braided foundation: For traditional sew ins, create cornrows that run from front to back of your head in rows. Make sure they are tight and secure but not too tight as this can cause discomfort. Braidless sew ins typically require small sections of hair to be braided and then secured with microbeads or thread.

3. Install the wefts: Take the wefts of extensions and use a needle and thread to sew them onto the braids. Start from the bottom and work your way upwards until all wefts are securely attached.

4. Blend and style: Once all wefts are attached, blend them with your natural hair by gently brushing through your locks. You can then style them as desired.

How to Care for Sew In Hair Extensions

Proper care and maintenance are essential for keeping your sew in extensions looking their best for an extended period of time.

1. Wash with sulfate-free shampoo: Use a gentle sulfate-free shampoo when washing your extensions as it will not strip them of their natural oils and cause damage or tangling.

2. Use a good conditioner: Apply a quality conditioner to your extensions, focusing on the tips to keep them hydrated and help prevent split ends.

3. Avoid excessive heat: Limit the use of heat styling tools on your sew in extensions as it can cause damage and shorten their lifespan.

4. Brush regularly: Use a wide-tooth comb or a specially designed loop brush to gently detangle your extensions daily. This will prevent matting and tangling.

5. Protect at night: Tie your hair up in a silk scarf or sleep on a silk pillowcase to protect your extensions from friction while you sleep.

6. Keep them moisturized: Just like your natural hair, it’s important to keep sew in extensions moisturized. Apply a leave-in conditioner regularly to keep them soft and healthy-looking.

Removing Sew In Hair Extensions

It is important to remove sew in hair extensions properly to avoid any damage or discomfort.

1. Cut the thread: Start by cutting the thread that secures the wefts onto the braids using scissors. Be careful not to cut too close to your natural hair.

2. Carefully remove the wefts: Once the thread is cut, gently

What are Do It Yourself Sew In Hair Extensions?

Do It Yourself Sew In Hair Extensions, also known as DIY Sew Ins, are a popular method for adding length and volume to your hair. This technique involves attaching wefts of hair to your natural hair using a needle and thread. Unlike other types of hair extensions, sew ins can be done at home without the help of a professional stylist.

One of the main benefits of DIY sew in hair extensions is that they are cost-effective. By doing them at home, you can save money on salon costs and maintenance appointments. They also allow for more customization as you can choose the type and length of hair you want without having to worry about salon stock options.

Types of Hair for DIY Sew Ins

When it comes to DIY sew ins, there are various types of hair you can use. The most common types include human hair, synthetic hair, and a mix of both.

Human hair is the preferred choice for many people as it looks and feels more natural. It is also versatile and can be treated like your own hair – dyed, styled with heat tools, etc. On the other hand, synthetic hair is an affordable option that requires less maintenance but may not blend as well with your natural hair.

A mix of human and synthetic hair offers the best of both worlds. It has the durability and natural look of human hair while being more budget-friendly.

Choosing Your Sew In Technique

There are different techniques you can use for your DIY sew ins. The most commonly used ones include traditional braided sew ins, braidless sew ins, micro-link sew ins, and clip-ins.

Traditional braided sew ins involve creating cornrows on your scalp using small braid extensions which serve as a base to attach the wefted extensions. Braidless sew ins use an adhesive to attach the wefts to your natural hair without braiding. Micro-link sew ins use small metal rings to connect the wefts to your natural hair. Lastly, clip-ins are temporary extensions that you can easily attach and remove whenever you want.

Each technique has its own pros and cons, so it’s best to do some research and choose the one that works best for your hair type and lifestyle.

Materials Needed for DIY Sew In Hair Extensions

To successfully do a DIY sew in at home, you will need a few materials. These include a needle, thread, hair bundles or wefts of your choice, a latch hook or crochet needle for braidless sew ins, and scissors. It’s important to invest in good quality materials to ensure the longevity of your extensions.

Additionally, you may also need a wig cap or stocking cap to protect your natural hair while braiding or attaching the extensions. Some people also opt for wig glue or tape for added security with their braidless sew ins.

Step by Step Guide

Once you have all the necessary materials, follow these steps for a successful DIY sew in:

1. Start by washing and conditioning your hair thoroughly.
2. Prepare your natural hair by detangling it and applying some leave-in conditioner for extra moisture.
3. If using traditional braided sew ins, part your hair into sections and braid each section tightly against your scalp.
4. Begin sewing the wefted extensions onto the braids using a needle and thread.
5. For braidless sew ins, section off a small piece of hair near the nape of your neck and create a small cornrow using the latch hook or crochet needle.
6. Attach the wefts to this cornrow using either glue or tape.
7. Continue creating cornrows upwards with each row of extensions until you reach the desired length.
8. Use a pair of scissors to trim the wefts to blend with your natural hair and achieve a more seamless look.
9. Style your extensions accordingly – cut, straighten, or curl them as desired.
10. To remove your sew in, simply cut the threads and gently unravel the braids or undo the adhesive.

Tips for Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential in making your DIY sew ins last longer. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

– Gently wash and condition your extensions at least once a week using sulfate-free products.
– Use heat protectant when styling with heat tools to prevent damage.
– Invest in good quality hair extensions as they can be reused for multiple installations.
– Be mindful of any allergies you may have towards certain materials and chemicals used in the process.
– Avoid sleeping with wet hair or putting too much tension on your braids as it can cause breakage.
– Schedule routine touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to maintain the integrity of your natural hair and ensure proper installation.

Conclusion

DIY sew in hair extensions can be a great option for those looking for a cost-effective way to change up their hairstyle. However, it’s important to educate yourself on the process and invest in

Q: What are DIY sew in hair extensions?
A: DIY sew in hair extensions are a type of hair extension method where the individual installs the extensions themselves using a needle and thread instead of going to a professional stylist.

Q: What is the benefit of using DIY sew in hair extensions instead of other methods?
A: The main benefit of using DIY sew in hair extensions is the cost savings compared to going to a salon. It also allows for more customization and control over the final look.

Q: Are there any specific types of hair that work best for DIY sew in hair extensions?
A: Yes, human hair tends to be the best option for DIY sew in hair extensions as it can be styled and treated just like your own natural hair. Synthetic hair may not blend as well and can be damaged by heat styling.

Q: What tools or supplies do I need to install DIY sew in hair extensions?
A: You will need a sewing needle, thread, scissors, a comb, and clips to section off your natural hair. Some people also find it helpful to have a mannequin head or wig stand to practice on before installing on their own head.

Q: Can I reuse my DIY sew in hair extensions?
A: Yes, depending on the quality and maintenance of the hair, you can typically reuse your DIY sew in extensions multiple times. It’s important to properly remove them and take care of them between uses.

Q: How long do DIY sew in hair extensions typically last?
A: The lifespan of your DIY sew in extensions will depend on factors such as how well you care for them and how often you wear them. With proper care, they can last up to 6-8 weeks before needing to be removed and reinstalled.

In conclusion, Do It Yourself Sew In Hair Extensions have become a popular option for those looking to add length, volume, and versatility to their hair. While this technique may seem intimidating at first, with proper preparation and practice, anyone can successfully install their own sew in extensions.

We have discussed the various steps involved in the DIY sew in process, from choosing the right extensions and tools to properly prepping the natural hair and sewing in the extensions. We have also highlighted some common mistakes to avoid and provided helpful tips for maintaining the sew in extensions.

One of the major benefits of DIY sew ins is the cost-effectiveness compared to salon installations. Additionally, doing your own sew ins allows for more customization and experimentation with different styles. However, it is important to take proper care of both your natural hair and the extensions to prevent damage.

Through this process, we have also emphasized the importance of setting realistic expectations for both installation and maintenance. Sew ins require some level of skill and patience, so it is important to not get discouraged if it does not turn out perfect on your first try.

Lastly, DIY sew ins can be a fun and rewarding experience when done correctly. With the knowledge gained from this discussion, readers can confidently embark on their own sew in journey and achieve their desired hair

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.