This traditional and widely-used technique involves braiding the natural hair into cornrows to create a secure, flat foundation. The crochet hair extensions are then attached using a crochet hook, which pulls the hair through the base of each cornrow. A fantastic time-saving alternative to cornrows. Small elastic bands are tied around small sections of natural hair to create anchor points across the head. The crochet hair is then tied directly onto these bands. This versatile method uses a mesh wig net as a supportive base, offering a fantastic alternative to traditional braiding.
Pre-Made Unit: You can create the entire style off-head by securing the wig net to a mannequin and crocheting all the bulk or pre-separated crochet hair through the net. Direct-On-Head Install: The net is first secured snugly to your head. The core benefit of both approaches is that the wig net provides a clear, organized grid of anchor points for crocheting. This not only significantly speeds up the installation but also distributes weight and reduces tension on your scalp.
This innovative technique utilizes a pre-made braided wig cap-a specialized foundation featuring integrated pre-braided tracks or pre-looped circles designed for effortless crocheting. While traditional crochet braids are created by attaching individual strands of hair one by one, the Express Crochet Method uses a innovative looping technique that applies hair in entire rows at a time.
Begin at the front. Start braiding at the nape of your neck. This braids securing technique works by anchoring each new row of braids to the one below it, creating a secure bottom-up structure that not only conceals all hair ends seamlessly but also forms an interlocking support system for superior hold. By integrating the side sections behind the ears with the front hair, the weight is distributed evenly across the entire head-significantly reducing tension on the scalp and hair roots.
Want to tackle a receding hairline when rocking braids? 1Braided Top Knot Leon Bennett//Getty Images For a classic braided crochet style that'll look effortlessly stylish, steal actress Sanaa Lathan's look - just pile up some tight braids into a chic top knot high on your head. 2Springy Curls Theo Wargo//Getty Images Take your crochet style to the next level by going for some color and bounce, as actress, producer and writer Quinta Brunson did. You can recreate her gorgeous look by installing a set of auburn crochet extensions, then letting the springy curls flare out at the back of your head. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Don't spend hours attempting to stretch out your curls for a 70s style glam afro. Lean into a loose curl crochet style where you can achieve an invisible part like actress Taraji P. Henson. 4Cornrows and Crochet Jason LaVeris Celebrity stylist Felicia Leatherwood, who specializes in natural hair, has been working her #blackhairmagic on the gorgeous Issa Rae for years now. Leatherwood helped Rae debut a dazzling half up/half down cornrows up front and crochet braids party-in-the-back look. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
If you have type 4 hair and are worried about frizz, opt for a flat twist and crochet combination like actress Keke Palmer. The flat twists will last weeks while crochet curls are easy to maintain. 8Full and Curly Jerritt Clark Leatherwood also hooked up singer Jill Scott with a full, curly style that's as bold and beautiful as the ever talented Jilly from Philly. "Crochet braids take about 3.5 hours to install and can last for five to six weeks," Leatherwood says. "Perfect for vacation. Your hair will look great - and the same - every day!"
Crochet wig installation: Dave Mangels demonstrates a crochet wig for Government Cheese's Simone Missick. With the synthetic hair attached to a crochet braided cap wig, it's even easier than the braids method. All you do is slide it over your cornrowed natural hair, and snip-snap! Before you know it, you'll be looking glorious and brand-new. Focus on the front: Update a high ponytail by pushing it toward your forehead, letting your loose curls frame your face with a faux bang style. We're loving Rihanna's ombré updo.
For a classic style, Pixie "Cut" or tight curled bob options offer professional looks that are easy to maintain. Tight Curled Bob Mat Hayward//Getty Images Actress Skai Jackson shows us that this tight curled bob is an easy way to achieve a strong professional look. Save time (and hair products!) with this crochet-inspired style that you just need to pineapple into a high ponytail at night to maintain.
Textured ponytails, wavy bobs, mambo braids, and ombré crochet looks illustrate the versatility of crochet braids. For a sleek look with a textured appeal, go for this voluminous ponytail like Issa Rae. Exhibit A: ripple wavy crochet look cut into an angled bob. It's next-level fab. For an easy crochet style, create a top knot with kinky curly hair. Crocheting into a bun adds volume so your hair can be sky high like Taraji P. Henson's confidence in this photo.
If you’ve been rocking your naturally curly hair, you know your curls can be a bit high-maintenance. Without proper care, they’re likely to throw a tangle tantrum. Enter crochet braids. Rocked by beauties like Solange Knowles and Keke Palmer, crochet braids make a big statement whether you’re heading to work or a night out. Even better? They’re great braids for curly hair and are easy to maintain. In our curly girl’s guide, we’ll explore the world of crochet braids, including how they differ from other types of braided looks and where you can go to make this unique style your own.
Crochet hair braiding, also called latch hook braiding, is a method of adding extensions to hair that was popularized in the ‘90s. Thanks to the natural hair movement, crochet braids now use textured extensions to create a more natural end result, which makes it easy to pass off crochet braids as authentic hair. First, your natural hair has to be braided into cornrows. Next, each hair extension is looped under a cornrow. Because there are different kinds of synthetic hair extensions for the crochet braid, you have various looks to choose from, such as crochet curls, Marley hair, Kanekalon hair, goddess locs, Jamaican bounce hair, jumbo braid, etc.
You may be surprised to learn that the “braid” in crochet braids doesn’t actually refer to the style you end up with. To achieve crochet braids, you must first cornrow your hair. Then, extensions are applied to the cornrows with a crochet technique. This is different from the sewing technique that’s used to apply a weave. With crochet braids, a latch hook (which looks similar to a crochet needle) is used to loop loose hair beneath the cornrows.
Protective - Excessive styling with hot tools, overuse of weaves and relaxers, and harsh chemical dyes can lead to damaged hair and thinning edges. With crochet braids, you can rock your dream look without any complaints from your natural hair. In fact, crochet braids protect your natural hair from the elements while still allowing your scalp to breathe. Quickly applied - Unlike box braids, which can take around five to six hours to install, crochet braids typically only require a two and a half-hour session. Inexpensive - Because crochet braids require less hair than box braids, they’re often more affordable. Style and savings? Don’t worry. There are plenty of options to choose from.
Voluminous and soft, twist-out crochet braids are perfect for any occasion. To add your own unique twist to your twists, choose boldly colored hair - we love a deep amethyst, a sultry indigo, or a fiery red. Want box braids without having to spend hours in a salon chair? With this knotless braid style, you can switch up your style daily with buns, side braids, high ponytails, and more. This is because knotless crochet braids hide the knots that would otherwise be seen when parting your hair differently. Are you interested in smaller, more delicate braids? Taking a break from your natural curls doesn’t mean you have to lose your curl altogether. With crochet braids, your options for natural curly hairstyles are endless. Replace your relaxer with straight crochet braids of any length and any color.
While crochet braids can last up to eight weeks, their quality and longevity will depend on how well you take care of them. Avoid (or limit) washes - Washing crochet braids can loosen the knots and shorten the lifespan of your look. In fact, many women choose to forego hair washes while wearing crochet braids. However, if you want to wash your hair, it’s best to focus on your scalp rather than your applied hair. Use leave-in conditioners and oils - Leave-in conditioners and oils are two of the best hair products for natural hair. To maintain your natural hair moisture, apply a leave-in conditioner or oil (such as coconut oil) when necessary. Be sure not to over-moisturize your hair-this can lead to product build-up, which prevents your hair from taking in moisture, resulting in dry, brittle locks. Lastly, if you’re just about to install crochet braids, consider booking an appointment for a natural hair treatment.
Protect your hair at night - Pineapple your braids, wear a satin bonnet or cover your hair with a scarf at night to minimize the likelihood of frizz in the morning. Manage frizz - Even if you’re diligent about covering your hair at night and in the shower, frizz still happens. While some frizz will add to the natural look of your braids, too much frizz can lead to tangled hair and messy styles. If you’re looking to take a break from that high-maintenance curl life and explore a range of new and exciting hairstyles, try the crochet hairstyle. Not only do crochet braids offer versatility, but they also protect your natural hair and can save you time and money. With StyleSeat, you can easily search for qualified stylists and browse top salons in your area and beyond to find the hair service that’s right for you. Wherever you are, there’s a stylist out there who will work to understand you, your hair, and the look that will make you feel your most beautiful, inside and out.
Unruly. Crochet Braids, Everything You Need to Know. Byrdie. Crochet Braids: Everything You Need to Know. Marie Claire. 14 Crochet Hairstyles to Inspire Your Next Protective Look.
HOW TO: INDIVIDUAL CROCHET ILLUSION FOR GODDESS BOHO BOX BRAIDS | Outre hair
In addition, the article discusses the protective and practical benefits of crochet braids, including how they save time, distribute weight to reduce scalp tension, and offer a variety of looks from knots to buns. Typical timelines note that crochet braids can be installed in about 2.5 hours and last several weeks, depending on care. The method is contrasted with traditional weaving and sewing techniques, highlighting the latch hook tool and looping process as distinctive elements. For anyone considering protective styling for curly hair, crochet braids present a versatile option that accommodates color, texture, and various bun or updo configurations.