Crochet braids were very popular during the nineties and slowly lost popularity at the turn of the century. Now, crochet braids and twists are gaining popularity again; however, these braids are different than the braids of the nineties.
The first thing you will notice is that the hair used for crochet braids is much more natural-looking. This means that the hairstyles that you can create with crochet hair look more like traditional natural hairstyles.
You have probably mistaken crochet braids for natural hair. If you’ve been thinking of exploring crochet braids, continue reading this article. It will teach you everything you need to know about crochet braids, crochet twists, and other crochet hairstyles.
What Are Crochet Braids?
Crochet braids are a gorgeous, natural-looking protective hairstyle that involves braiding, weaving, or crocheting synthetic extensions into your natural hair with a crochet hook or latch hook. These low-maintenance braids are often referred to as latch hook braids due to the braiding technique used. Crochet braids are also commonly confused with box braids.
Crochet hairstyles are associated with African American hair culture and have been popular in the black hair community for many years. The name isn’t specific to the type of hair that’s used to create the braids, instead, the name refers to the method that’s used to add the extensions to your hair (more about that later).
The crochet method is similar to getting certain types of weaves, in that you must first cornrow braid your hair before any extensions are added. However, unlike a weave that is a large section of hair that is sewn in, in this instance the hair is loose.
A crochet needle is inserted into the cornrow braid. Then, a small amount of hair is threaded onto the needle and pulled through the cornrow braid, and tied in a knot to secure it to the hair.
In this article, we will teach you how to crochet synthetic hair into your braided natural hair for a beautiful, voluminous hairstyle that will last as long as eight weeks! Keep reading for all of the details you’ll need to complete this style perfectly, even if you’re a beginner.
The Benefits of Crochet Braids
Almost everyone loves the look and feel of crochet braids. When properly maintained, they can be a protective style that offers many benefits, including:
Crochet braids are perfect for do-it-yourself people. As long as you know how to cornrow your hair, you can do crochet twists, braids, and other crochet styles. Although, it’s important to note that the cornrows do not need to be perfect as they will be covered by the crocheted braids. Crochet braids are an inexpensive braid style and they can look very natural. Also, depending on the style you wish to create, you can install braids in only a few hours.
How to Do Crochet Braids
It’s impossible to do crochet braids without the right supplies. And there’s nothing worse than spending time on a hairstyle only to realize you don’t have everything you need to complete it! Plus, having the necessary supplies on hand will make the hair prep and styling processes painless.
Pre-poo treatment
- Deep cleansing/clarifying shampoo
- Sulfate-free shampoo
- Moisturizing conditioner
- Leave-in conditioner, oil, or other moisturizing product of your choice
Supplies for Hair Stretching:
- Ponytail holders or scrunchies
- Blow dryer
- Supplies for Hair Styling:
- Wide-tooth comb
- Rattail comb
- Hair growth oil (optional)
- Scissors
- Two bundles of crochet hair
- Crochet hook/ latch hook
What Type of Hair Is Best for Crochet Braids?
To do crochet braids, you’ll need crochet braiding hair. Crochet hair is synthetic hair that comes in many different lengths, colors, and textures. The hair will be crocheted onto your cornrows. So, if you’re going for a curly look, purchase crochet hair that has the curl pattern that you want.
PRO TIP: You can incorporate a small amount of synthetic braiding hair as you cornrow your natural hair (as a base for the crochet hair). This is especially helpful if your natural hair mats easily or is too short to grip without extension hair.
If you need synthetic braiding hair, we recommend using any kanekalon braiding hair. You can find extension hair at beauty supply stores, online, or even at department stores.
How Much Hair Is Needed for Crochet Braids?
You will need four or more bundles of crochet hair to complete a full head of crochet braids. You may use up to 8 bundles of crochet hair depending on the style of your hair and how voluminous you want the style to be. It’s always a good idea to buy more hair than you think you’ll need.
If you choose to incorporate braiding hair into your cornrows, you will need one pack of synthetic braiding hair, such as Xpressions Braiding Hair.
Prepare Your Hair
Protective styles, as the name suggests, are great for protecting your natural hair. However, these styles can have the reverse effect if you don’t properly prep your hair before you begin styling.
As with any other protective styles, crochet braids should be installed on clean, detangled, and moisturized hair. The goal, in addition to looking good, is to give your natural hair underneath some time to rejuvenate—so your hair should be in optimal shape beforehand. Gather up the right shampoo and conditioning hair treatments before you begin.
As with any other protective styles, crochet braids should be installed on clean, detangled, and moisturized hair. The goal, in addition to looking good, is to give your natural hair underneath some time to rejuvenate—so your hair should be in optimal shape beforehand. Gather up the right shampoo and conditioning hair treatments before you begin.
How To Do Crochet Braids
Here is our tutorial on how to do crochet braids.
Materials needed: Crochet box braid hair (7 packs is normal amount needed), Latch hook, Plastic hair needle, Hair thread, Scissors (optional)
Step 1: You must choose a braid pattern that you like and can envision having your hair in that pattern. Most women choose to have their hair go straight back in cornrows with their back braids horizontal. (Side note: You can choose to have your sides slanting upward so that your cornrows are less detectable and you can pull your hair back in a natural looking ponytail).
Step 2: Once your hair is in the desired pattern then if you are skilled, you may be able to interweave your cornrow braids without using any type of thread to hold down the hair. However, if you are not confident in your ability to interweave your hair then go ahead and use thread to sew down your back braids to prevent them from coming loose.
Step 3: Take your chosen crochet braid hair and begin to install the hair using a latch hook. If you are uncertain on how to use a latch hook then follow a YouTube video on how best to latch hook your crochet hair. The skill of latch hooking does take a little bit of effort but once you learn how to slide the hook through without damaging your hair or scalp then the process will go much faster.
Step 4: Install your crochet braid hair very closely from your front edges all the way toward the middle of your scalp.
Step 5: To keep your hair from being too bulky you can choose to space your crochet hair near the back of your head since most of your hair will fall to the back naturally.
Step 6: Make sure to secure all of your braids by either completing one pull through of the crochet hair or doing a double pull through to secure the hair on the scalp.
16 Trendy Crotchet Braids for a Fresh Hairdo
Now that you are somewhat of a pro at crocheting, here are a few glamorous looks you can steal.
- Bold and Curly Crochet Twists
The sky’s the limit when you opt for a crochet hairstyle. This time, we’re obsessing over the gorgeous crochet twists and that must-have color. To create the look, cornrow your hair as usual and then opt for pre-twisted hair that’s at least 18 inches (remember you lose length in the curl pattern) for extensions that reach bra strap length (BSL). Leave ends loose for a bit of playfulness.
- Mi-sized bouncy crochet braids
Sometimes you want mid-sized braids. Other times you will want to go the extra mile for big twists. If you are in the mood for the latter, then this jumbo twist crochet hairstyle will serve you perfectly. Jumbo twists can be crocheted and styled with ease. One way you can style these braids is by pinning half of your twists in a beautiful half-bun.
- Crochet Wig
With the synthetic hair attached to a crochet braided cap wig, it’s even easier than the braids method. All you do is slide it over your cornrowed natural hair, and snip-snap! Before you know it, you’ll be looking glorious and brand-new.
- Short Curly Crotchet
Short curly crotchet styles are super pretty. With the right cut, they generously outline all your facial features. To rock this hairstyle, you need to braid your hair and then attach the crotchet extension. Also, you can apply a curl redefining cream on your ringlets to give them that shiny look.
- Long Black Crochet Twist Braids
Why go for short twists when you can add more and more length? This rope twisted hairstyle looks good on its own. However, it’s the blend of colors that takes it to the next level. The different shades of brown-black and blonde give your crotchet braids a mesmerizing look
- Micro Crochet Braids
Crochet Braids, like any other protective hairstyle requires braiding of your natural hair, whether it’s premed or not there are various kinds of hair strands that you can use for crochet braids. Add braiding hair to the cornrows to take the stress off the natural hair. It is important that your hair is really healthy before you try a crochet braid hairstyle
- Blonde Crochet Braids
For many Black women, protective styles can mean incorporate weaves and wigs that are uncomfortable or time-consuming. Crochet braids, also known as latch hook braids, are an alternative that you may fall in love with. Did you know that crochet braids are one of the most versatile protective styles available for women with natural hair? If you’re seeking a hairstyle that melds fun and flexible with protection, you’ve met your match.
- Jumbo Crochet Braids
Jumbo individual crochet braids are guaranteed to stand out! Jumbo braids go very well on most face shapes. To recreate the crochet braiding, get a crochet latch hook, pieces of crochet twist, and a comb. Don’t forget the oils to apply on the scalp. One crucial tip is not to braid the edges too tight to avoid breakage or receding frontline.
- Brazilian wool Crochet Braids
We love crochets because they’re easier to DIY than a weave install and are the ultimate time hack when it comes to box braids, twists and goddess locs. Learn more about crochets and our favorite brands. How much crochet hair varies depending on the texture and brand, but the general average is 5-6 single packs.
- Tight Curly Crochet Hair
Crochets are great if you’re looking to rock extensions with kinkier textures or if you’d like to to try goddess locs or box braids, but can’t spend hours getting them done. Read below for more details about the crochet method. Get a seamless part and choose the invisible part add-on for a natural-looking part. An invisible part, also known as a knotless part, is a crocheting method used to hide the crochet knots. It gives the illusion that the added hair is growing out of one’s scalp. Hence, no need to leave any of your own hair out.
- Cornrows and Crochet Braids
Try cornrows and crochet braids as your next protective style. Crochet hairstyles are great for adding volume, cornrows to the front will give you control and make pulling it back easier on the days you just want to tame the mane.
- Kinky Twists on Crochet Hair
Kinky or spring twists with crochet curls give that bouncy, full-bodied shape. They even appear stunning and cute on any black woman! With these kinks, keep the scalp always cool and dry to prevent irritation.
- Fluffy Spring Twist Crochet Braids
Instead of long hours spent at the salon getting your twists done, install your favorite chunky twists with this crotchet. This saves you a lot of time and protects your hair better. Instead of long hours spent at the salon getting your twists done, install your favorite chunky twists with this crotchet. This saves you a lot of time and protects your hair better. Spice up your braids look with some color. This is a perfect way to experiment with color that is bold without being all over the place.
- Crochet Marley Hair
Long Marley hair is a protective natural hairstyle that ladies with kinks must try! This side-parted crochet hairstyle is fun to wear. With a long length, it offers versatility in styling, like updos. When wearing these twists, always moisturize the roots and keep the scalp oiled. Maintenance is the key, so it lasts longer.
- Passion Twist Crochet Braids.
Shake up the dance floor with these ultra-stylish and chic spring twist crochet braids. She looks ready to party all night with her fabulous curls. The thick cascades of tight, springy ringlets are extremely pretty. The hair you choose should allow for you to touch it and style it without getting your fingers stuck or clumping up. Try to see if the beauty supply store you visit have any hair on display so that you can see the hair up close.
- Bobbi Boss Crochet Faux Locs
Women love the hairstyle because the hairstyle is affordable, easy to do, doesn’t require a lot of time and energy and the hairstyle is itself very unique and creative. The hairline should look natural when opting for the knotless crochet hairstyle. You want hair that does not easily tangle and frizz. Hair that tangles and frizzes will make you go bunkers. Hair that does this will frustrate you within a week or so depending on how much the hair experiences friction.