How to Do Sew in Extensions: a Pro’s Guide to Flawless Installation [2024]

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You’ll love how sew-in extensions transform your look, lasting up to eight weeks when properly installed.

Start by thoroughly detangling your hair and creating neat sections for cornrow braids, which serve as your foundation.

Using a curved needle and strong thread, attach the wefts by folding them to match your braid length and securing them with evenly spaced stitches about 1/2 inch apart.

Double-knot each section to prevent loosening.

For maintenance, use sulfate-free products and gentle washing techniques.

The secret to stunning sew-ins lies in the details – from choosing the right hair type to mastering that perfect stitch pattern.

What Are Sew in Extensions?

You’ll find that sew-in extensions are wefts of natural or synthetic hair that get attached to your cornrowed base hair using a curved needle and thread.

When installed properly, they’ll give you the freedom to transform your look with added length and volume that can last up to eight weeks.

Types of Hair Used

For sew-in extensions, choosing between human hair and synthetic hair is like picking between a gourmet meal and fast food.

1. Human hair: Natural finish, style freedom.
2. Synthetic hair: Budget-friendly, limited styling.
3. Virgin hair: Untreated, premium quality.
4. Donor ethnicity: Influences hair texture and volume.

Choose based on lifestyle and budget!

Adding Length and Volume

Looking to transform your hair into a voluminous masterpiece?

Sew-in extensions offer endless possibilities to achieve your hair goals.

These versatile extensions let you boost both length and volume, giving you the freedom to explore new styles without harming your natural locks.

Regular maintenance like washing and moisturizing prolongs their life, ensuring your stunning look stays impeccable.

How to Prepare Your Hair for Sew Ins

You’ll need to prep your natural hair carefully before getting those gorgeous sew-in extensions installed, just like you’d prepare a canvas before creating a masterpiece.

Before your stylist can work their magic, you’ll want to thoroughly detangle your hair and create neat sections that will serve as the foundation for your cornrow braids.

This will ensure your extensions look flawless and stay secure.

Detangle and Part Hair

A flawless sew-in starts with prepping your hair like a pro.

Whip out your detangling tools and glide through those locks, eliminating every stubborn knot.

Now, harness your inner artist to carve perfect parting patterns.

This solid groundwork, centered on scalp care and sectioning techniques, makes sure your sew-in weave blends seamlessly.

Don’t rush—savor the mastery moment!

Create Anchor Braids

To create sturdy anchor braids for sew-in extensions, start by crafting cornrows near your hairline.

Use a rat tail comb for precise sectioning.

You can find the right tools and supplies, such as sew in tracks, at online retailers like Everysimply sew in tracks.

Keep the braids snug against your scalp for a solid hold.

Finish with a two-strand twist or knot for lasting results.

How to Sew in Extensions

You’ll need a curved needle and strong thread to securely attach your extensions to your cornrow base, ensuring they stay firmly in place for weeks to come.

Once you’ve gathered your tools, you can transform your look by sewing the wefts onto your braids in neat, even stitches that’ll give you the length and volume you’re after.

Tools Needed

Now that you’ve got your hair prepped and your braids in place, it’s time to get down to business with the actual installation of your sew-in extensions, which can be a bit tricky if you’re new to sew-in extension techniques. To do this, you’ll need a few key tools within arm’s reach.

Tools Needed	Description
Curved Sewing Needle	A curved needle to easily weave through tight braids and sew in extensions
Thread	Thread that matches the color of your extensions for seamless blending, also has heat resistance
Rubbing Alcohol and Cotton Balls	For disinfecting the needle between sections for good hygiene

You’ll also need a comb and scissors on hand to gently section your hair and cut your thread as needed.

Attaching Extensions to Braids

The magic of sew-in extensions lies in proper attachment technique – it’s like building a house, where your foundation must be rock-solid.

Start by folding your weft to match your braid’s length, then thread your curved needle with doubled thread.

1. Insert the needle under the cornrow, catching both the braid and weft
2. Space your stitches evenly, about 1/2 inch apart
3. Secure each section with a double knot, leaving no loose ends

Caring for Sew in Extensions

You’ll need to give your sew-in extensions the same loving care you’d give your natural hair to keep them looking fresh and fabulous.

With proper maintenance techniques for washing, styling, and preventing tangles, you can extend the life of your extensions while maintaining their natural bounce and shine.

Washing

Maintaining clean sew-in extensions starts with choosing the right products.

You’ll need sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for your extension type – human or synthetic.

Gently massage your scalp using circular motions, working from roots to tips.

Keep water lukewarm, as hot water can loosen bonds.

Rinse thoroughly but avoid upside-down washing, which can tangle extensions.

Pat dry with a microfiber towel rather than rubbing.

Styling

Styling sew-in extensions opens up endless possibilities for your look, but smart techniques make all the difference.

To prevent damage, start by applying a quality heat protectant spray before using any hot tools – your extensions will thank you later.

For everyday wear, try loose waves or sleek straight styles, keeping the heat below 375°F.

When creating updos or braids, secure them gently to prevent tension.

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Tangling Prevention

After mastering styling techniques, preventing tangles becomes your next superpower.

How Long Do Sew Ins Last?

A well-installed sew-in weave can be your trusty companion for 6-8 weeks, though your mileage may vary depending on several factors.

Think of it as a temporary transformation that needs the right care to stay stunning.

To make the most of this time, it’s important to follow proper sew-in hair care tips, which can help extend the life of the weave.

Remember, pushing past the 8-week mark isn’t worth the risk – no matter how great your extensions still look, your natural hair needs attention and relief from the constant tension.

Sew in Extension Maintenance

You’ll need to show your sew-in extensions some regular TLC to keep them looking fresh and fabulous between salon visits.

Proper maintenance, including gentle washing and daily moisturizing, won’t just extend the life of your extensions but will also protect your natural hair underneath.

Retightening

Your sew-in extensions need regular maintenance to stay stunning and secure. Here’s what you need to know about retightening:

Schedule appointments every 4-6 weeks with your stylist for professional retightening. They’ll reposition the extensions closer to your roots using a needle and thread, ensuring everything stays perfectly blended.

To avoid common issues like tension bumps and hair breakage, you should learn how to deal with a tight sew in.

Tell your stylist immediately if you feel any discomfort – they can adjust the tension to keep you comfortable.

Pro tip: A gentle wiggle test between visits helps identify loose tracks early.

Moisturizing

Maintaining proper moisture levels becomes the next big challenge once your sew-ins are secure.

Think of moisturizing as giving your extensions a daily drink of water – both your natural hair and the extensions need it to stay healthy.

Apply a leave-in conditioner with nourishing oils like argan or coconut, focusing on roots and ends.

Skip the blow dryer and let your hair air dry to lock in that moisture.

Common Problems With Sew Ins

While you’re excited about your new sew-in extensions, you’ll want to watch out for common issues that can turn your hair transformation into a uncomfortable experience.

You’ll learn how to prevent and address problems like scalp itchiness and potential damage to your natural hair,

ensuring your extensions stay fabulous from installation to removal.

Itchiness

An itchy scalp’s persistent discomfort can turn your dream extensions into a nightmare.

To find relief, gently massage aloe vera gel into irritated areas or try an apple cider vinegar rinse.

Prevent future issues by regularly cleansing extensions, using a light touch when shampooing, and incorporating soothing tea tree oil.

Avoid tight styles that compress your scalp, and always schedule professional installations and removals.

Damage to Natural Hair

While scalp itchiness might bother you, permanent hair damage is a more serious concern with sew-in extensions.

Tight braids can trigger traction alopecia, leading to irreversible hair loss around your hairline and crown.

To protect your natural hair, insist on gentle installation techniques, moisturize your scalp daily, and avoid heat styling.

Regular maintenance with a professional stylist helps spot early signs of damage before they become permanent issues.

Removing Sew in Extensions

You’ll want to be extra careful when it’s time to remove your sew-in extensions to avoid damaging your natural hair.

While you might be tempted to tackle the removal yourself to save money, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your stylist who can safely snip the threads and prevent any accidental cuts to your own hair.

Avoid Cutting Own Hair

Despite the temptation to save money, cutting out your own sew-in extensions is like performing surgery on yourself – it’s a risky move that often backfires.

Even if you’re handy with scissors, the complex angles and hidden threads make DIY removal tricky.

Seeking Professional Help

Getting professional help to remove your sew-in extensions is a smart investment in your hair’s health.

Look for a stylist who specializes in extension removal – ideally the one who installed them. They’ll understand the exact pattern and technique used, minimizing damage.

Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and schedule a consultation first.

A skilled professional’s gentle touch and expertise can prevent breakage and preserve your natural hair.

Sew in Extensions Vs Other Methods

You’ll want to understand how sew-in extensions compare to other options like clip-ins and tape-ins before making your choice.

While you’re investing more time upfront with sew-ins, you’ll get a secure, long-lasting install that can transform your look for up to two months.

Clip-Ins

Clip-in extensions offer quick-change artistry compared to sew-ins, perfect for style chameleons who love flexibility.

Unlike permanent installations, these temporary pieces let you transform your look in minutes.

When you’re ready to commit to a longer-lasting style, find the right Sew in Hair Products that suit your needs.

Tape-Ins

Why choose tape-in extensions when you’ve got sew-ins as an option? Here’s how they stack up:

Feature	Tape-Ins	Sew-Ins
Lifespan	4-8 weeks	6-8 weeks
Application	Quick, adhesive-based	Braided foundation
Maintenance	Weekly care needed	Bi-weekly care
Cost	$200-400 initial	$300-600 initial

While tape-ins offer quick installation, they need frequent reapplication and gentle handling to avoid adhesive damage.

For a more natural look, consider blending hair textures to achieve a seamless blend with your sew-in extensions.

For flexibility and ease, they’re great – but sew-ins typically last longer.

Finding a Stylist for Sew Ins

Now that you’ve explored different extension methods, let’s talk about finding your perfect stylist match – because your dream hair deserves expert hands.

Your ideal stylist should tick these boxes: track record of 2+ years specifically with sew-in installations, professional certification in extension application, active social media presence showing recent work, and clear, upfront pricing for both services and hair. It’s also helpful to find someone who knows how to properly remove sew-in extensions at home, in case you need to take them out in the future.

Start your search by browsing local salon reviews and asking friends with gorgeous extensions for recommendations. Don’t skip the consultation – it’s your chance to see their portfolio and discuss your vision. Expect to invest $150-600 for the installation alone, plus $80-600 for quality hair. Remember, a skilled stylist charging premium rates often costs less in the long run than fixing a botched installation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)