The Truth About Crochet Braids: What Every Natural Should Know

Crochet braids have quickly become a favorite among naturals who are protective styling. As a former “bundles girl”, I love the versatility and realistic look of crochet braids. I’ve experimented with a myriad of synthetic extension brands, braid patterns and styling options, both for myself and for my clients, and honestly, there are many different brands and options that all yield beautiful and natural results. This style can become tricky to navigate, but here are some helpful tips that will aid you on your crochet journey.

All hair brands are not created equal! If you’re a natural who wants to experiment with silky or curly hair textures, use caution. Those textures are more prone to heavy shedding. The benefit of using a Marley texture is that it will lock at the base of the braid and will also blend seamlessly, bearing a striking resemblance to kinky/curly hair textures.

Brand favorites, among naturals and stylists, include Noir Janet Collection Marley Hair and Vivica Fox Jamaican Marley Braid for kinky textures, and Freetress Water Wave and Freetress Bulk Bohemian for curly/wavy textures.

Regardless of what brand you choose, the ultimate goal is to get your install to look as natural as possible. The two dead giveaways for extensions would be an unnatural part and your edges not matching the hair installed. A simple way to ensure your install is believable is to use the “knotless” or “invisible part” method, which is much preferred. Visible knots around your hairline, and on your parts is an obvious indicator of a “weave”.

Lucky for all of us, there are countless different methods of how to hide your knots on YouTube, so no one has to know that you are protective styling unless you want them to! So either you can attempt a “knotless” method or simply leave some of your own hair out around your parting and the perimeter of your face.

These simple tips are meant to guide you along your journey; the rest is merely creative preference. So here are a few Do’s and Don’ts to remember:

• DO find hair that closely resembles the texture of your own
• DON’T create large parts that will create a distinction between your hair and the crochet
• DO try the knotless method so that the crochet will appear to grow from your scalp
• DON’T forget to smooth edges if you opt for a silky texture of braiding hair

Now you are ready to enjoy your crochet braids! Beware of countless stares, compliments and unwanted hands near you hair. Never has a protective style gotten me so many compliments, and I love being able to keep it “kinky” while protecting my own kinky, curly hair!

SHOP THE HAIR

Ladies, since there’s been so many comments and questions regarding where to get the hair used in this article, I went ahead and found some very comparable options. Note that some of these links below are affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info:

1. Bounce Marley Hair in Havana Mambo Twist Hair
2. INNOCENCE Senegal Twist 12″ Mini (#01 Jet Black)
3. Jamaican Bounce Havana Mambo Synthetic Crochet Braids
4. Afro Havana Mambo Twist Synthetic Braiding Hair
5. Freetress Ombre Wand Curl Janet Collection
6. Ombre Wand Curl Crochet Havana Mambo Twist Braid

MY CROCHET BRAIDS

Main Photo Credit: Hair By Susy – check out her crochet braids and wigs for protective styles!

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