How to Put in a Hair Weave

Applying a hair weave is more difficult than just applying hair extensions, because it is more secured and lasts longer. You need assistance with putting in a hair weave from at least one more person, as well as patience and a pain tolerance from the weave pulling at the scalp. Weaves help create fashionable hair, whether it is longer or curlier, that keeps up with the changing styles of hair and personality.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hair weave Rubber-bands Rat-tail comb Hair glue Curling irons, if desired Oil-based product Shampoo and conditioner Scissors Weaving needle Bobby pins Weaving thread

1. Decide what type of hair weave you want. This is the same decision-making process as deciding upon hair extensions. You can go long, curly, straight, natural color, bold colors or a different texture. Find a brand that suits your budget, style and needs, but make sure it is good quality and doesn't appear dry, crumbly or dull.

2. Prepare your natural hair where you will place the weave by thoroughly shampooing and conditioning. Then, wash the hair weave separately to get rid of any debris or manufacturer's glue. Make sure your hair and the weave piece are completely dry before starting the weave process.

3. Divide parts of the hair into small and narrow ½-inch rows starting at the front. Using a rat-tail comb, start at the left temple, and twist the ½-inch sections of hair all the way to the nape of the neck; secure with a rubber-band or bobby pin, depending upon the thickness of the hair. Work all the way to the right temple.

4. Ensure that all the rows are straight and the same size. Then, start at the right temple again and braid each of these sections into tight cornrows that are as flat as possible against the scalp. This provides an even canvas for the hair weave, which will be sewn into the braids.

5. Use the hair-weaving needle and stick it into the track of the weave. Lay this section of the weave perpendicular against the cornrow section on the right part of your scalp. Thread the needle through the hair and when you finish the section, create a small looped knot by wrapping the thread around itself under the needle so the track won't slip out.

6. Repeat this process at every other section of the weave until you finish that track. Cut off the remainder of the hair weave, and bring it to the beginning of the next cornrow. Repeat the process. When done, secure the loose ends of the weave track with small dollops of the weave glue that you put pressure on for about 25 seconds each.

7. Style the weave however you desire by shaping, styling or cutting. Use an oil-based hair product for a shiny and smooth appearance.

Tips & Warnings

• Hair weaves can cause a lot of discomfort, so make sure you understand the process and have a person who has weave experience with you.