How to Make a Closure Sew In
Sew-in closures are a popular and versatile way to achieve a natural-looking hairstyle while protecting your natural hair. Whether you’re looking to add volume, length, or simply switch up your style, mastering the technique of a closure sew-in is essential. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore how to achieve a flawless closure sew-in, from preparation to finishing touches.
1. Gather Your Materials
Before beginning the process, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials ready. Here’s a checklist:
| Materials Needed | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Closure (e.g., lace closure) | Provides the natural scalp appearance |
| Hair bundles | For the sew-in |
| SISHAIR products | High-quality closures and bundles |
| Needle and thread | For sewing the hair |
| Wig cap or mesh cap | Protects your natural hair |
| Comb and brush | For detangling and styling |
| Hair clips | To section your hair |
| Scissors | For cutting the thread and adjusting hair |
| Edge control or gel | For smoothing edges |
| Blow dryer (optional) | For faster drying after braiding |
Having all of these tools on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient.
2. Prepare Your Natural Hair
The foundation of any sew-in is properly prepared natural hair. Start by thoroughly washing and conditioning your hair to ensure it is clean and hydrated. Follow these steps:
- Detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working your way up to avoid breakage.
- Blow-dry your hair or let it air dry completely. If you prefer, lightly stretch your hair using a heat protectant and a blow dryer for easier braiding.
Next, braid your natural hair into cornrows. The braid pattern should be flat and secure, as it forms the base for the sew-in. A common braid pattern is straight-back cornrows, but you can also create a circular pattern if you prefer. Make sure the braids are tight and even, but not so tight that they cause discomfort or tension on your scalp.
3. Protect Your Natural Hair
Once your hair is braided, place a wig cap or mesh cap over your braids. This step is crucial for protecting your natural hair from the thread and needle during the sewing process. A wig cap also helps create a smooth surface for the closure and hair bundles.
If desired, apply a small amount of oil or leave-in conditioner to keep your scalp moisturized underneath the wig cap.
4. Secure the Closure
Position the closure at the top of your head where you want it to be installed. Make sure it aligns naturally with your hairline and sits flat against your scalp. Use hair clips to hold the closure in place while you sew it down.
Using a curved needle and thread, sew the perimeter of the closure onto the wig cap and cornrows. Take small, even stitches to ensure the closure is secure and flat. Avoid sewing through the lace directly, as it can damage the closure. Instead, sew around the edges of the lace for a seamless finish.
For SISHAIR closures, the lace is designed to be durable and easy to work with, making the sewing process even more convenient.
5. Sew in the Hair Bundles
After securing the closure, it’s time to sew in the hair bundles. Start from the nape of your neck and work your way up to the crown. Follow these steps:
- Measure the width of the weft against your braid, then cut it to size if necessary.
- Using your curved needle and thread, sew the weft onto the braids, ensuring the stitches are close together for durability.
- Continue sewing the bundles in a horizontal pattern, layering them for volume and fullness. Overlap the wefts slightly to create a seamless look.
Repeat this process until you’ve covered the entire head, leaving the closure area untouched.
6. Blend and Style the Closure
Once all the bundles are sewn in, it’s time to customize the closure for a natural appearance. If your closure is a lace closure, pluck the hairline slightly to mimic the look of a real scalp. Be careful not to over-pluck, as this can create bald spots.
Next, part the closure where you desire (middle, side, or free part). To make the part look natural, apply a small amount of concealer or foundation that matches your skin tone directly onto the parting line.
Use a flat iron or curling iron to style the closure and bundles, ensuring they blend seamlessly. You can also use edge control or gel to smooth down your edges for a polished finish.
7. Maintain Your Closure Sew-In
To ensure your closure sew-in lasts and stays flawless, follow these maintenance tips:
- Wrap your hair with a silk or satin scarf at night to prevent frizz and tangling.
- Use a wide-tooth comb or brush to gently detangle the hair, starting from the ends and working upward.
- Avoid applying heavy oils or products to the closure, as this can cause buildup and damage the lace.
- Cleanse your scalp every 2-3 weeks using a diluted shampoo and a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the sew-in.
With proper care, a closure sew-in can last up to 6-8 weeks, giving you a beautiful and natural-looking hairstyle.
Conclusion
A closure sew-in is an excellent way to achieve a flawless and protective hairstyle. By following the steps outlined above, from preparing your natural hair to sewing in the closure and bundles, you can create a professional-looking result at home. Always use high-quality products like SISHAIR closures and bundles to ensure durability and a natural finish. With practice and proper maintenance, your closure sew-in will look stunning and last for weeks, allowing you to enjoy your new hairstyle with confidence.
