Introduction
Embarking on a new hair installation journey can be both exciting and daunting. If you’re looking for a natural and seamless look, a lace closure could be the perfect addition to your hairstyle. However, using glue to secure the closure can sometimes be messy and damaging to your natural hair. In this detailed guide, we’ll take you through the steps of installing a lace closure without using any glue, leaving you with a stunning result that you can feel confident and comfortable in. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to install a lace closure without glue.
What is a Lace Closure?
A lace closure is a small hairpiece made of lace or silk with individual strands of hair tightly attached to it. It is used to cover the top part of your head where hair wefts or tracks are sewn in. The lace closure is essential in giving a natural and realistic-looking parting on your hairstyle. It can be made of different materials such as Swiss lace, French lace, or silk. Swiss lace is thinner than French lace and gives a more natural-looking scalp. Meanwhile, silk closures are made of a thick fabric which can last longer.
The lace material allows the closure to easily blend with your scalp, providing a realistic appearance. It also comes in different sizes, from 4×4 to 7×7 inches, providing options for a different range of hairstyles and regions of coverage. Lace closures can be attached to your natural hair using different methods such as glue, tape, or sewing. However, in this article, we will focus on how to install a lace closure without glue.
It is vital to select the right kind of lace that best suits your natural skin tone to achieve the most realistic look. There are various types of laces available in the market, such as transparent, light brown, medium brown and dark brown lace. It is essential to make a careful selection of color that matches your skin tone. Failure to do so will make the lace closure very obvious, making it look less natural overall.
Why Install Lace Closures without Glue?
Installing a lace closure without glue is becoming a popular choice among those who wear wigs and weaves. This is because it is a safer and healthier option for your hair and scalp. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider installing a lace closure without glue:
- No damage to your natural hair: When you use glue to install a wig or weave, it can cause major damage to your natural hair and scalp. Over time, you may experience hair loss and scarring. Installing a closure without glue eliminates this risk.
- Less chance of allergies: Some people may have an allergy to the chemicals found in hairpiece adhesives. By eliminating glue, you can minimize the chances of having a bad reaction.
- Easier maintenance: If you glue a wig or weave onto your hair, you have to spend a lot of time and effort removing the glue residue from your hair and scalp. With a closure that’s sewn in, you don’t have to worry about this extra step.
- Longer-lasting: Without the need for glue, your closure will last longer before needing to be replaced. This saves you time and money in the long run.
By considering these facts and benefits, you may find that installing a closure without glue is the way to go. It is important to note that the process of sewing in a closure may take more skill and precision than using glue, but it is worth the extra effort for the health and longevity of your natural hair.
Step 1: Preparing Your Hair and Closure
Preparing your hair and lace closure is an essential step in achieving a flawless look that can last for weeks. By taking the time to properly wash and condition your hair, and prepping your lace closure, you can ensure that your style is not only stunning but also long-lasting. This step is crucial because a dirty, oily, or improperly treated closure and hair can cause discomfort and lead to an uneven or unnatural look. So let’s dive into the ultimate guide on preparing your hair and closure, which includes washing and conditioning your hair, and prepping your lace closure for installation.
Washing and Conditioning Your Hair
Washing and conditioning your hair is an essential step before installing a lace closure without glue. This ensures that your hair and scalp are clean, making it easier to work with. Here are the steps to effectively wash and condition your hair before the installation process.
- Start by detangling your hair with a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush. This will prevent hair breakage during the washing process.
- Wet your hair with lukewarm water. Do not use hot water as it can strip your hair of natural oils, making it dry and prone to breakage.
- Apply a sulfate-free shampoo to your hair. Be sure to apply the shampoo evenly, focusing on your scalp, and work it through the length of the hair. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Apply conditioner to your hair. Make sure the conditioner is suitable for your hair type. Apply it from the mid-length to the ends of your hair, avoiding your scalp. Leave the conditioner on for about 5-10 minutes to allow it to penetrate your hair. Rinse thoroughly with cool water, which helps to close the cuticles and retain moisture.
- After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water by patting your hair with a soft towel. Do not rub your hair vigorously with the towel, as this can cause friction and breakage.
- Pro tip: If you have dry or damaged hair, consider adding a leave-in conditioner or hair oil for extra moisture.
- Remember: Your hair must be completely dry before continuing with the installation process to ensure a secure hold and prevent slippage.
By following these steps, you’ll have clean, conditioned, and healthy hair that’s ready for the following steps in the installation process.
Prepping Your Closure
Preparing your closure is an essential step to ensure that it lays flat and blends seamlessly with your natural hair. Here are the steps you need to take to prep your closure:
Step 1: Cut off any excess lace that extends beyond the hairline. Be sure to use sharp scissors to achieve a clean cut.
Step 2: Pluck any excess hair strands from the closure to create a more natural-looking hairline. Use tweezers to carefully pluck out the hairs one-by-one, focusing on the front perimeter.
Step 3: Apply a little bit of alcohol to a cotton ball and use it to clean any excess glue or adhesive from the closure. Be sure to allow the alcohol to dry completely so that the closure is completely dry before you start installing it.
Step 4: Knot the thread at the end and sew a few stitches onto the closure to secure it.
Step 5: After the closure is securely placed, you can adjust it by slightly moving it forward or backward to make sure it is aligned with your hairline.
By taking these steps to properly prep your closure, you will ensure that it lays flat and blends seamlessly with your natural hair, giving you a polished, natural-looking hairstyle.
Step 2: Sewing Down the Closure
After properly preparing your hair and lace closure, it’s time to move on to the next step – sewing down the closure. This is where the installation process really starts to come together. Unlike using glue, sewing down the closure allows for a more secure and long-lasting hold. Keep reading to learn how to sew down your lace closure and achieve the desired look without any messy adhesive. And if you’re worried about which glue to use for other projects, check out our article on what glue is safe for fish to learn more.
Sewing the Closure onto Your Braids
Once you have prepared your hair and closure, it’s time to sew down the closure. Sewing is one of the most popular methods of installing lace closures without glue. Here are the steps to follow:
- Take a curved needle and thread it with a strong black thread. Double-knot the thread at the end.
- Separate your hair into small sections and braid them. These braids should be small enough to ensure a flat laying closure.
- Place the closure in the desired position and secure it with hairpins.
- Thread your needle and start sewing from the middle of the closure.
- Make sure that you sew through the braids and closure base.
- Use small stitches and make sure each stitch is tight. This is important to ensure that the closure lays flat and doesn’t move.
- As you sew around the closure, make sure you are pulling the thread tight enough to provide some tension but not too tightly as to cause ripples.
- Once you get to the side of the ear tabs of the closure, you may need to fold the ear tabs inward and sew them down to ensure it’s flat and fits securely.
- When you sew all the way around the closure, make a knot and secure it on the underside with a couple of stitches.
Remember to avoid sewing through the lace part of the closure as it may cause damage or tearing. Also, make sure that you sew through the braids and closure base to ensure a flat and secure installation.
Now that the closure is properly sewn down, you can cut off any excess lace that may be showing using a pair of scissors. Be careful not to cut into the closure or your natural hair.
Next, move on to styling your closure to make it look natural and blend with your natural hair.
Cutting Off Excess Lace
When installing a lace closure, it’s important to cut off the excess lace to ensure a natural and seamless blend with your natural hair. Before cutting off the excess lace, make sure to position the closure in the exact spot you desire. Once you’re happy with the placement, use a water-soluble pen to mark along the hairline where you want to trim.
Next, carefully remove the closure from your head. Using a pair of sharp scissors, begin to cut along the marked line. Be sure to cut close to the hairline, but not so close that you accidentally cut the hairs in the lace.
Once you’ve trimmed along the entire hairline, it’s time to remove the remaining lace. Be very careful not to cut any of the hairs on the closure while removing the excess lace. Use small, precise cuts to remove the remaining lace.
Finally, inspect your closure to ensure that all of the excess lace has been removed. Any remaining lace could cause irritation or discomfort to your scalp while wearing.
With the excess lace removed, your lace closure should blend seamlessly with your natural hairline for a flawless finish. If you encounter any issues during this step, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional stylist for assistance. And remember, always use caution when cutting with scissors to avoid any accidental injuries.
Now that you’ve successfully cut off the excess lace, it’s time to move onto the next step in the lace closure installation process.
Step 3: Styling Your Closure
Now that your lace closure is securely sewn onto your braids, it’s time to move on to the fun part: styling it! This is where you can get creative and really make your closure look like a natural part of your hair. Whether you want a sleek and straight look or bouncy curls, styling your closure is easy and straightforward. You can even customize it to match your natural hair texture and color. So, grab your styling tools and let’s get started! And if you want to learn more about using adhesive glue, check out this helpful guide.
Cutting and Shaping Your Closure
After sewing down your lace closure, it’s time to cut and shape it to blend seamlessly with your natural hair. This step is crucial in achieving a natural-looking hairstyle. The following are the steps to cut and shape your closure:
Step 1: Comb out the closure to remove any tangles. Using a pair of scissors, trim the lace around the closure carefully. Be mindful not to cut the baby hairs or the knots on the closure.
Step 2: Part your natural hair in the direction you want it to fall, then place the closure on top of your hair. Align the closure with your natural hairline, making sure it fits comfortably on your head.
Step 3: Using a pen or white eyeliner, mark where you want to cut the closure to create a natural hairline. Be careful not to cut across the entire closure- only cut the excess lace beyond your hairline.
Step 4: Remove the closure and lay it on a flat surface. Begin carefully cutting along the marked lines, following the natural curve created by your hairline.
Step 5: After trimming, shake out and gently comb the closure to remove any loose hairs. Style as desired with a flat iron or curling wand.
Remember, it’s always better to cut less initially, as you can always go back and trim more later. This will help you achieve a more natural-looking hairline.
As you cut and shape your closure, be sure you avoid using glue, as it can damage your natural hair underneath the closure. If you need to secure the closure further, use bobby pins or sew-in combs instead.
Pro tip: If you’re having trouble cutting the lace, try using a spray bottle to dampen the lace. This will make it more pliable and easier to cut.
Now that you’ve cut and shaped your closure, it’s time to blend it in with your natural hair. Check out our following step on how to blend your closure with your natural hair.
Internal link: how to bind a book without glue
Blending with Your Natural Hair
Blending with Your Natural Hair
To achieve a seamless and natural look with your lace closure, it’s important to blend it well with your natural hair. This step will make sure that the line of demarcation between your closure and natural hair is not visible. Here are some steps to blend your closure with your natural hair:
1. Style Your Hair
Before you start blending your closure, make sure to style your hair according to the look you want to achieve. This will help you see the areas where your natural hair needs to be blended with your closure. It’s recommended to use a curling iron or flat iron to blend your hair with the closure for a more natural look.
2. Cut Your Closure
To blend your closure with your natural hair, you’ll need to cut the excess lace around the perimeter of your closure. Carefully trim the lace along your hairline, being careful not to cut any of your natural hair in the process.
3. Tweezing
Tweezing is a technique that involves plucking out a few strands of hair from the lace closure to make it look more like your natural hairline. Use a tweezer to remove a few strands of hair from the closure. Be careful not to overpluck, as this can make the closure look too thin and unrealistic.
4. Use a Hair Wand
Using a hair wand is another great way to blend your closure with your natural hair. Simply take small sections of your natural hair and wrap them around the wand. Hold each section for a few seconds, then release. This will create loose waves or curls that help blend your natural hair with your closure.
To make sure your closure is properly blended with your natural hair, gently brush out the curls and use a comb to blend them with your natural hair. If you have trouble blending the closure with your natural hair, consider seeking the help of a professional stylist.
With these tips, you can achieve a beautiful and natural look with your lace closure without using any glue. Remember to always take good care of your hair and closure to maintain their quality and appearance over time.
If you want to learn more about gluing techniques, check out how to glue German Shepherd ears up.
Conclusion
As we come to the end of this step-by-step guide on installing a lace closure without glue, it’s important to recap what we’ve learned. By following these simple steps, you will be able to install a lace closure and achieve a natural-looking hairstyle that blends seamlessly with your natural hair. Remember to take your time when working with your hair and closure, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. And if you ever do need to use glue in your hairstyles, be sure to check out our guide on how to make school glue for a quick and easy DIY recipe.
Final Thoughts and Tips
After going through these steps on how to install a lace closure without glue, there are some final tips and thoughts to consider.
1. Don’t sew the closure on too tight. While you want the closure to be secure, avoid sewing it on too tightly as this could lead to discomfort and potential hair breakage.
2. Use a quality closure. Always invest in a high-quality lace closure to ensure longevity and reduce the chances of shedding or premature damage.
3. Practice proper maintenance. Proper maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of your closure. Always wash and condition your hair regularly and avoid using harsh chemicals on your closure.
4. Consider professional installation. If you’re unsure about installing the closure yourself, seek the help of a professional hairstylist who has experience with installing lace closures.
5. Experiment with different styling options. Once you’ve installed your lace closure, have fun styling it in different ways and finding the perfect look that suits your personal style.
Remember, you don’t have to use glue to install a lace closure and achieve a natural-looking hairline. By following these steps, you can easily sew in your closure with minimal damage to your hair. If you’re looking for more inspiration and tips about gluing, check out What Does Wood Glue Not Stick To?.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I install a lace closure without glue?
Yes, you can install a lace closure without using any glue. You can sew down the closure using a needle and thread for a secure hold.
2. Will installing a lace closure damage my natural hair?
Installing a lace closure properly should not damage your natural hair. However, if you are rough with your hair or do not properly care for the closure and braids underneath, it can lead to damage.
3. How long does it take to install a lace closure?
The time it takes to install a lace closure depends on your skill level and experience. It can take anywhere from 1-4 hours to install, so make sure to give yourself enough time.
4. How often do I need to wash my lace closure?
You should wash your lace closure every 2-3 weeks to keep it clean and maintain its longevity.
5. How do I style my lace closure?
You can style your lace closure just like you would your natural hair. You can flat iron, curl, or even dye it. Just make sure to properly care for it after styling to maintain its quality.
6. Can I reuse my lace closure?
Yes, you can reuse your lace closure if it is still in good condition. Just make sure to properly care for it and remove any excess glue or thread before reusing it.
7. How do I know what size closure to get?
The size of your closure depends on the size of your head and the area you want to cover. Measure the distance from your hairline to where you want your closure to lay to determine the size you need.
8. Can I swim with a lace closure installed?
Yes, you can swim with a lace closure installed. Just make sure to properly care for your hair and closure before and after swimming to avoid damage.
9. How can I make my lace closure look more natural?
You can make your lace closure look more natural by properly blending it with your natural hair, cutting and shaping it to match your hairline, and using makeup to match the lace color to your skin tone.
10. How long will my lace closure last?
Your lace closure can last anywhere from 6 months to a year or even longer with proper care and maintenance.