It’s a good chance that you’ve seen someone with yarn braids, considering the hairstyle’s popularity. Yarn braids are a popular protective hairstyle with a distinctive aesthetic. Show
At first glance, they may resemble box braids, but these braids are something else entirely. By no means is the style new; yarn braids have been around for decades. Though yarn braids have been around for a while, many are unaware of the hairstyle’s nuances. Whether you’re totally new to yarn braids, or you’re interested in learning more about the unique style, this article is for you. Table of Contents
What Are Yarn Braids?Yarn braids, like many hairstyles that use extension braiding hair, are considered a protective hairstyle. However, instead of using traditional braiding hair, yarn braids are created with yarn instead. Think crocheting or knitting yarn. One of the main appeals of yarn braids is that yarn comes in endless color options, many of which are not available with braiding hair. Often, yarn braids are likened to box braids, but these two braid styles are very different. The differences lie in the yarn braid installation process and the finished look. We’ll get into both of these topics later on in this article. What Type of Yarn Is Used for Yarn Braids?We recommend using 100% acrylic yarn. Acrylic yarn is recommended because other types of yarn, like cotton or wool yarn, can often adhere to your hair strands and become matted. Yarn also comes in several different weights. Using either a 4 or 5 weight yarn would be perfect for yarn braids. How Much Do Yarn Braids Cost?There are two costs to consider when it comes to yarn braids: (1) the cost of the yarn and (2) the cost of installation. The Cost of the YarnThe total cost of the yarn varies based on:
A skein of yarn can be small (~50 grams), medium (~100 grams), or large (~200 grams). Depending on the three factors above, you could need anywhere from 6-8 small balls of yarn, 3-5 medium balls, or 2-3 large balls. Acrylic yarn goes for around $3-$10 per skein, depending on the skein’s size. You may be able to find it cheaper at discount craft stores or on sale. Keep in mind that specific colors may cost more than others. Below are some excellent yarn options on Amazon:
The Cost of the InstallationThe cost of installation varies based on the specific stylist doing the install. However, you can expect to spend from $150 to $250 (in most cases). The cost will increase based on the length of your braids. How To Do Yarn Braids: Step-by-StepThe installation is a three-step process, and each step is essential for the braids to turn out beautifully and last. Whether you are doing the style on yourself, or someone else, the following section will be useful. Let’s go over each of the steps below. How to Prepare the YarnYarn comes in a tightly wound ball. To braid the yarn into your hair, you’ll need to cut individual strips. How to Prep Yarn to Do Yarn Braids | Genie Locs Here are step-by-step instructions to prepare your yarn:
For those that are visual learners, we recommend watching the video tutorial above for a step-by-step walkthrough of the process. How to Prepare Your HairBefore any yarn touches your hair, you should adequately prepare it. Your hair should be:
Use a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo to get rid of any hair buildup. Then, deep condition your hair to impart moisture and nutrients. This step is crucial because your hair will be tucked away in the braids for an extended amount of time. Once your hair is washed and conditioned, it’s ready to be moisturized. Choose a substantial moisturizer that will coat the hair and protect it from friction with the yarn. You can dry your hair with a blow dryer that has a comb attachment. Alternatively, you can braid your hair in large braids and allow it to air-dry. Now your hair is ready to be braided. Braiding Your HairOnce your yarn is appropriately separated, it is time to start braiding your hair. There are several steps you should take to properly install yarn braids, and the following list will outline every step in detail. We’ve also included another video tutorial if you prefer that option:
HOW TO DO YARN BRAIDS: THE BEST BOX BRAIDING TECHNIQUE Seal Your EndsAfter you’ve spent all of that time braiding your hair, the last thing you want is for them to unravel. To secure your braids until you’re ready to take them out, you’ve got to secure the ends. You can use three methods, and the following sections will tell you about each of them. Method #1: The Lighter MethodThe lighter method requires using an open flame from a lighter to melt the yarn. Once you are done braiding all of your yarn braids down to the ends, do the following:
Warning: The lighter method is a common technique used during the installation process to prevent braids from unraveling. However, it’s not a technique that we recommend for newbies. It’s possible that you can set yourself on fire. If you’re using wool yarn or any blend of yarn fibers that is not 100% acrylic, using a flame to burn your braid ends can actually light them on fire. Use this method at your own risk. Do not use this method unless you know what you’re doing. Also, 100% acrylic yarn tends to be less flammable than yarn blends or other types of yarn. Method #2: Use a Hair Extension Fusion ToolThis method is recommended for anyone who doesn’t like the idea of working with a flame. A hair extension fusion tool is a heat styling tool that is usually used to seal hair extension bonds. However, this tool works great for sealing small to medium yarn braids. If your braid ends are larger than the size of a number 2 pencil, then this method may not work well for you. How to Use a Hair Extension Fusion ToolPlug the hair extension fusion tool in and turn it on. Allow it to get hot and it’s ready to go. To seal your braids, put the end of a yarn braid between the tool’s plates and clamp down. The heat of the device will seal the yarn fibers and prevent the braid from unraveling. Once you have held the tool on the braid ends for several seconds, release the braid, and cut off the excess yarn with your scissors. How to Burn Ends of Braid Extensions With No Flame Method #3: Use Rubber BandsTo prevent your braids from unraveling without using heat, you can use rubber bands. Rubber bands are not often preferred for securing yarn braids, since they can be unattractive. But, if you want to use rubber bands to keep your braids from unraveling, it’s super easy. All you need to do is wrap a rubber band around the ends of your braids repeatedly and then cut off the loose yarn below the rubber band. That’s it. You’re finished! How Long Do Yarn Braids Last?With all the work that goes into yarn braids, you may be itching to know how long they last. The style can last several months, depending on how well the braids are secured to the natural hair and whether your ends remain sealed. On average, yarn braids last one to two months, and this is on par with the longevity of the average protective style. Some people try to make their braids last longer, but it is not advised to leave braids in your hair for longer than 2 months. MaintenanceYarn braids should be maintained to ensure maximum style longevity. This section will tell you how to properly maintain your braids. Washing Yarn BraidsIf your hair begins to feel dirty, or you go swimming in chlorine water, you should wash your braids with shampoo and a light conditioner. When you wash your braids, keep in mind that they will get very heavy. So, it is advised to wash your yarn braids in a shallow sink or tub where you can allow the braids to rest at the bottom – this will take the weight of the braids off of your scalp and neck. After you’re done washing your hair, squeeze the water out of your braids before you allow them to air-dry. Yarn braids often take hours and hours to dry, so be prepared. Oil Your ScalpThough you may have oiled your scalp during installation, you may need to oil it again from time to time over the weeks. Whenever your scalp feels or looks dry, you should reapply the oil. Cover Your HeadCovering your yarn braids up at night not only keeps them sleek but also decreases tension on your roots since it restricts hair movement. Wrapping your hair up with a silk or satin scarf is ideal. Benefits of Yarn BraidsYarn braids are loved by many, and those who have tried the style know exactly why. But if you are inexperienced with this braiding style, the list of benefits will be helpful. Yarn braid benefits include:
Drawbacks of Yarn BraidsJust like any other style, yarn braids come with disadvantages that you should know about. The list below will highlight the common drawbacks:
Should You Get Yarn Braids?Yarn braids are not for everyone, and whether they’ll be a good fit for you depends on two primary factors:
If your hair density is low, or your hair is weak, you may want to pass on yarn braids. Yarn braids have the potential to be heavy, and if your hair is not in good shape, you run the risk of severe damage. Your hair should be thick enough, and strong enough, to support the weight of the yarn and minimize breakage. Also, your level of patience plays a role in whether you should get yarn braids. Since the installation time for this style is long, you will need patience to get the style installed, or to install it yourself. In addition, you should consider how long it takes to uninstall yarn braids – to minimize breakage during the takedown process, you should take your time and be gentle. Dos and Don’ts of Yarn BraidsIf you’ve decided to get yarn braids, that’s great! But before you do, take a quick glance at the Dos and Don’ts to ensure that your yarn braid experience is a positive one. Do:
Don’t:
Now you know absolutely everything you need to know about yarn braids. You’ve gathered information about prepping the yarn, braiding the yarn into your natural hair, braid maintenance, and more. You’re well equipped to try out the coolest yarn braids! Kenneth Byrd holds a BS in Accounting and Management Information Systems and an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is a serial hair blogger that has been writing about hair care since 2008, when he co-founded Curl Centric and Natural Hair Box. Curl Centric is a website operated by a husband and wife team that encourages healthy hair care. Can you make hair extensions from yarn?Inspired by a few of the hairdos on the show, we used colored yarn to craft these playful hair extensions. If you already have some fun yarn in your craft stash, this is the perfect project to use up smaller amounts, or mix and match colors for even more fun!
Can we make hair extensions at home?It's possible to buy loose hair (rather than hair that is pre-attached to a weft) for much cheaper than packs of hair wefts. Although it is possible to make your own hair extensions using loose hair, the process is very difficult and time consuming, so it is not recommended.
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