A Step-by-Step DIY Guide for Natural-Looking Extensions

Hand tied wefts are a favorite in the hair extension world — they’re lightweight, lay flat, and blend beautifully with your natural hair. The good news? You don’t have to go to a salon to get them installed. With a bit of patience, the right tools, and this guide, you can install them right at home.

1. What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather your tools:

Tools & Products:

✅ Hand tied wefts (color-matched to your hair)

✅ C-shaped needle + strong weaving thread

✅ Sectioning clips

✅ Rat-tail comb

✅ Scissors

✅ Beads + loop tool (optional)

✅ Mirror (or a helpful friend!)

2. Preparing Your Hair

Start with clean, dry hair. Avoid conditioner — it makes the hair too slippery.

Steps:

Detangle thoroughly.

Use the rat-tail comb to part your hair horizontally from ear to ear.

Clip up the top section to keep it out of the way.

3. Creating the Foundation

There are two main ways to prep for weft attachment:

Option A: Beaded Row Method

Use the loop tool to thread beads evenly along your part.

Space them 1–1.5 cm apart.

Option B: Cornrow Braid Method

Create a tight, horizontal braid along the part line.

Keep the braid flat against the scalp.

4. Sewing In the Wefts

Now the fun part: installing the wefts!

Step-by-Step:

Thread the needle and tie a strong knot at the end.

Anchor your first stitch at one end of the track (beads or braid).

Sew through the top of the weft and under the foundation.

Continue across, keeping stitches tight but not pulling hair.

Finish with a strong double knot.

Pro Tips:

For fullness, stack two wefts together (double-wefting).

Start with 1–2 rows, then add more if needed.

5. Blending & Styling

Now it’s time to make everything look seamless.

What to Do:

Trim any uneven ends (use hair shears).

Curl or flat iron hair to blend extensions.

Use a serum or light oil for shine.

6. Aftercare Tips

Take care of your install so it lasts 6–8 weeks.

Dos:

Use sulfate-free shampoo & conditioner.

Brush gently, starting at the ends.

Sleep in a braid or silk bonnet.

Don’ts:

Don’t overwash — once or twice a week is plenty.

Avoid heavy oils at the root (can loosen thread).

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pulling too tight = breakage

Crooked sectioning = wefts will show

Skipping blending = obvious extensions

8. When to Get Help

It’s totally okay to call in a pro if:

You struggle with tight braids or bead placement

You want a seamless cut/blend

It’s time for a reinstall and you’re nervous

Conclusion

Hand tied wefts are a great way to get that full, flowing hair look without damaging your natural strands. With this guide, a bit of practice, and the right care — you’ll have salon-worthy hair, straight from your own bathroom.