How to Apply Weft Hair Extensions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Weft hair extensions are a fantastic way to add length, volume, and thickness to your hair. Whether you’re going for a full transformation or just want a little extra body, applying weft extensions can give you stunning results. While it’s always recommended to have a professional stylist apply them, it’s possible to apply weft extensions at home with the right tools and a little patience. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of applying weft hair extensions, from preparation to the final touches.

What You’ll Need:

• Weft Hair Extensions (machine weft, hand-tied, or clip-in, depending on your choice)
• Sectioning Clips or Hair Ties
• Rat Tail Comb for precise sections
• Needle and Thread (for sewn-in extensions)
• Bonding Glue or Tape (for tape-in extensions)
• Scissors
• Hair Dryer (optional, for drying glue or tape)
• Heat Protectant (optional, if you plan on styling your extensions)

Step 1: Prepare Your Natural Hair

Before applying weft extensions, ensure that your natural hair is clean and dry. This will help the extensions bond better and stay in place longer. If your hair is damp, allow it to fully dry before starting.

• Shampoo and Condition: Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Ensure your hair is moisturized, as dry hair may make it harder for the extensions to blend.
• Detangle: Use a wide-tooth comb to remove any knots from your natural hair. This ensures a smooth application and a more seamless blend with the extensions.
• Dry Your Hair: Blow-dry your hair completely before you start the application. If you’re using tape-in extensions or clip-ins, make sure your hair is not too oily or greasy.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

To apply weft extensions, it’s essential to work with clean, even sections of hair. Divide your natural hair into multiple layers to ensure the extensions blend in naturally and securely.

• Create Horizontal Sections: Using a rat tail comb, part your hair horizontally into sections, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Clip each section away from the others to keep the sections neat.
• Determine the Size of Each Weft: Each layer will hold one weft. Measure each weft against your sectioned hair to ensure it fits well and doesn’t cause bulkiness or tension on the natural hair.

Step 3: Attach the Wefts

There are several methods to apply weft extensions: sewn-in, tape-in, and clip-in. Here’s how to apply each method:

1. Sewn-In Wefts (For Long-Term Application)

This method is ideal for a more permanent solution. It involves sewing the wefts onto your natural hair, creating a secure and long-lasting hold.

• Create a Small Braid or Track: Start by creating a small braid or track at the base of your hair (where the section is). This provides a solid foundation for the weft.
• Sew the Weft into Place: Using a needle and thread, sew the weft onto the braid or natural hair track. Start from one side of the section, passing the needle through the weft and the natural hair, and secure it in place. Continue until the entire weft is sewn in.
• Secure the End: Once the weft is fully sewn in, tie off the thread securely, ensuring there’s no loose stitching.

2. Tape-In Wefts (For Semi-Permanent Application)

Tape-in extensions offer a more temporary solution but still last for several weeks with proper care.

• Apply Tape to the Weft: Start by peeling the adhesive backing off the tape-in weft.
• Sandwich Your Natural Hair: Place the tape weft underneath your natural hair section and then press the top of your natural hair down onto the tape, sandwiching it securely.
• Repeat the Process: Continue applying the tape-in wefts row by row until you’ve added the desired amount of extensions. Be sure to leave enough space between each tape-in extension to ensure the wefts stay securely in place.
• Press Down: Use a comb or your fingers to press down on the wefts to ensure the tape sticks properly.

3. Clip-In Wefts (For Temporary or Daily Use)

Clip-ins are the quickest and easiest method for adding wefts to your hair. They are also the most temporary, as they can be removed and reapplied daily.

• Open the Clips: Clip each weft open by gently pressing the clip mechanism.
• Attach the Clip-In: Position the clip-in weft at the base of your section, and press the clips into your natural hair near the roots. Once the clips are in place, press the clip mechanism closed to secure the weft.
• Repeat for Each Layer: Continue applying clip-in wefts row by row until you’ve achieved the desired volume or length.

Step 4: Blend and Style

After applying the wefts, it’s essential to blend your natural hair with the extensions for a seamless finish.

• Blend with a Comb or Brush: Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently comb through the hair. Be sure to blend your natural hair with the extensions so they don’t appear bulky or uneven.
• Trim if Necessary: If the extensions feel too long or uneven compared to your natural hair, use scissors to trim the ends slightly. Cutting the extensions helps create a more uniform look and ensures they blend naturally.
• Style Your Hair: Now that the extensions are applied, you can style your hair as desired. Use a heat protectant spray if you’re using heat styling tools like flat irons or curling wands.

Step 5: Finish and Maintain

Once you’ve finished styling, give your hair a final check to ensure the extensions are securely in place and blend well with your natural hair.

• Apply Hair Spray: Lightly mist your hair with hairspray to ensure your extensions stay in place all day.
• Avoid Tugging or Pulling: Be gentle with your extensions. Avoid tugging on them or using excessive force when brushing or styling.
• Regular Maintenance: Depending on the method used, you’ll need to maintain your weft extensions. For sewn-in extensions, return to your stylist for re-tightening every 6-8 weeks. Tape-ins should be reapplied every 6-8 weeks as well, while clip-ins can be removed nightly.

Conclusion

Applying weft hair extensions can be a relatively straightforward process if you follow the right steps and use the correct tools. Whether you choose sewn-in, tape-in, or clip-in extensions, taking the time to properly section and apply the wefts will ensure that your extensions look natural and stay securely in place. Regular maintenance and proper care will also help extend the life of your extensions, allowing you to enjoy a fuller, longer, and more voluminous look for weeks to come.