How To Do Crochet Braids

Crochet braids are a way of attaching extensions to the hair. Typically, the hair is cornrowed flat on the head before the extensions are inserted beneath the cornrows using a latch hook and tied. Crochets wigs have also become popular, as have lazy girl methods of installing crochet braids that eliminate the need for cornrows and instead attaches extensions to a crochet cap that has been placed over the hair.

Crochet braids come with the same pros and cons that accompany any protective style and is only beneficial to the hair in so much as it is installed with the proper care. Here are some benefits of crochet braids.
Quick and easy to install compared to traditional methods of doing extensions.
Crochet braids make it easy to change up your look.
Crochet braids are a protective style that helps with hair growth and length retention
A wide variety of extension is available from different curl patterns to braids, twists and locs.
Affordable and accessible.

Cons
Too tight braids can create tension on the hair and scalp and cause breakage.
Natural hair can become dry beneath crochet braids.

Crochet braids can last several weeks, depending on how well the extensions you use handle wear. Some extensions may become extra frizzy or matted, however, even if your extensions hold up well, eight weeks as a good rule of thumb for maximum length of time to keep your crochet braid extensions in.

The extensions used for crochet braids are bulk extensions, i.e. extensions that are not on wefts. There are also pre-looped extensions which come already sectioned and require no separation.

With every hairstyle, particularly one that’s meant to be worn for an extended period of time, you want to ensure that your hair is clean, (deep) conditioned and thoroughly moisturized. Clean hair is the best foundation of any protective style. Here is a step by step guide for installing crochet braids.

• Use a shampoo that will get your scalp clean. This will minimize the likelihood of itching as time passes.
• Condition and moisturize the hair well.
• Create your braiding pattern taking into account how you want to wear your hair and where you want your part to be located.
• It’s best to start installing your extensions at the back of your head and work toward the front.
• Open your crochet latch hook and insert it under your cornrow in the position you want to place your extensions.
• Place the hair in the hook and close the flap.
• Pull hook with the attached hair back out from under the hair.
• Release the hair two or three times until the extensions are securely locked in place.
• Repeat
• Cut and shape to achieve the desired style once all your extensions have been installed.

Inserting crochet braids is something you’ll be able to do while sitting in front of your television once you have done it a few times to figure out the rhythm. For a seamless and natural crochet braid look it is important to choose hair extensions with a color and texture that mimics your own natural hair. However, if you are so inclined, you should definitely feel free to explore different hair colors and textures with crochet braids.
If you are new to crochet braids, you should definitely try regular crochet braids first before trying knotless or invisible crochet braids. There are a million videos on YouTube that can help you out if needed.

You should approach caring for your crochet braids in the same way you would take care of your own hair, with the exception of adding any products to the extensions.
Continue oiling your scalp if that is a regular part of your hair routine.
Follow what maintenance instructions that come with your extensions to keep it looking fresher for longer.
Trying to wash your crochet braids can lead to unforeseen consequences. It may be possible with box braids, twists and locs, but curly extensions could become irreparably damaged. Instead of washing, keep your scalp clean by wiping with a cotton ball that has been wet with witch hazel.
Wear a scarf to bed. This will help keep frizz in check.

Crochet Braid Styles

If you are curious to see what your hair would look like with a different cut or color, then crochet braids are a great way to find out.

If you’ve always wondered whether or not bob cut would suit you then crochet braids are the way to go.

Faux locs are a hugely popular crochet braid styles. With this hairstyle you get to try locs without the commitment.

There are so many crochet braid curl types available to try. From tight curls to loose waves, there are curl options for every taste.

These tight curls are super cute and as with pretty much every crochet braid look you can customize the length and shape of your final look.

Crochet braids are a fantastic way to add color to your hair without the commitment or damage. You could change your hair color every week if you wanted. The exposed cornrows to the side in this look mimics shaved sides which makes this look next level edgy.

Tapered cuts have become insanely popular in the natural hair community in the last few years. This crochet braided hairstyle is the perfect way to try before you buy.

Box braids are one of those hairstyles that never go out of style and crochet box braids are a great way to get the look at home, especially if you do not possess the skills to install single box braids by the usual method. Always ensure that you are not putting too much pressure on your edges, but feel free to lay those baby hairs for a sleek look.

If you are torn between curly hair and locs then curly locs might be what you have been looking for. Don’t forget that these styles can become pretty heavy depending on how many packs of locs are used and the weight can become too much for your own hair and result in damage.

Not feeling the curly hair looks? There are also plenty of straight extensions for crochet braiding. Go as long as you want, create a bob, and edgy cut or stick to a more natural length.

Faux locs come not just in different colors, but different types as well. You are sure to find a wide variety of colors and loc types, so you can work your way through the selection in order to find your color.

The half up, half down hairstyle is a favorite hairstyle of many and you can achieve that look with crochet braids as well. Ensure that your parts and cornrows are neatly defined for a clean and crisp look.

This style is perfect for those who want to give their own natural hair a break, but would want to continue rocking natural hairstyles just the same.

Getting the long straight hair look without applying heat to your own hair is possible with crochet braids. Many types of straight hair for crochet braid give the appearance of natural hair being straightened which creates a much more realistic look.

Big hair don’t care! Get the volume and length you want with a voluminous curly haired crochet braid look.

Faux hawks are always popular. With crochet braids you can add length to your faux hawk, make it curly and add some color.