I tried a crochet weave for the first time in 2017 and haven’t looked back. With the exception of one sew-in during my “hot girl summer” of 2019, and rocking braids/twists every few months, crochet styles are my go-to. I’ve had every curl pattern, length, width, color and braid or twist style.
My natural hair has been easy to treat with the install and with crotchet as a protective style, I haven’t suffered any damage to my natural hair. If you haven’t tried a crotchet weave, here’s a cheat sheet on why it’s a great weaving option for you. I’ve even included photos of the styles I’ve worn throughout the years as a reference.
Full versatility
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Crotchet braids allows you to the same, or oftentimes more, versatility and manipulation with styling. There are so many different hair textures, braid/twist options and install techniques that you can choose from. The crotchet method is typically preferred over traditional weaving due to the versatility afforded to the client. Because of the way the hair is installed, it’s easier to style and manipulate once crotched into your natural hair.
Look of regular extensions without the hassle and looks more natural
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Crotchet weaves are a safer weaving option and considered a protective style as it doesn’t require the tight pull involved with a needle and thread of a sew-in weave. Additionally, the risks you take with clip-ins falling out aren’t there, and the damage weave glue can do to your hair if you choose to add tracks with glue are not an issue. The install is quicker as well. If you want a weave but don’t want to sit for 2-3 hours, try a crotchet weave.
Able to moisturize and care for scalp/hair
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With the crotchet technique, caring for your natural hair is easier. Each individual weave strand or braid/twist is installed onto the braid to appear more like your natural hair. Because there’s such space between the braids, moisturizing and oiling your scalp is convenient. Unlike traditional tracks, the products won’t loosen the tracks over time because of the way the hair is intertwined with your own natural hair.
Styling is easy and no products are needed (unless you choose)
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The great thing about crotchet hair versus hair used in normal weaves is that the hair is synthetic and not pure virgin extensions. Virgin extensions have to be treated as your natural hair, meaning the hair has to be washed and conditioned in order for it to last. The wrong products used on the hair can permanently damage the hair and make styling almost impossible.
With synthetic hair used for crocheting, you don’t have to worry about the upkeep. The hair isn’t affected by any products because synthetic hair doesn’t absorb moisture. In fact, the longer you keep your crotchet hair in, the more natural it will appear. Crotchet hair can be maintained with hand manipulation. A simple fluff and go will do!
Lasts with proper care and low to no maintenance (depending on hair)
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Unlike normal weaves, the upkeep routine is minimal. A silk scarf at night or a bonnet is all that’s needed. The hair does not need to be washed or conditioned, nor does it require a wide-tooth comb or wig brush.
You can control how much volume your hair by installing as many packs of hair as you wish. The hair can be cut along the way as synthetic hair tends to tangle, or it can be detangled with hand manipulation. Depending on the hair texture and install technique your stylist uses, your crochet style can last for up to two months. If you opt for a crotchet weave, loose curls tend to not last as long as hair with kinky or dense textures.
The hair is also cheaper. Packs of crochet hair can run as low as $5 per pack. Whereas virgin bundles typically start around $80 for the shortest length and are as pricey as $500!
