Collection: Weft Hair Extensions

Weft hair extensions is a core of the hair extensions world. Here is everything you must grab. Click now, don't miss out!

Introduction

Here you find the source of quality weft hair extensions and all of its related information an expert hairdressers and hair salons wanna to know. Take a cup of tea, sit back, relax and let us present it to you! Dig in now!

What Are Weft Hair Extensions?

Weft hair extensions are a type of hair extension where the hair strands are sewn together at the top to create a strip (or "weft") that can be attached to natural hair. They can be made by machines or by hand and come in various methods for attaching to natural hair, such as beads, tape, or fusion. 

How Many Weft Hair Extensions Type?

Based on Construction Method

Weft hair extensions come in two primary types: hand-tied and machine-sewn. 

Hand-tied weft extensions

Definition

Hand-tied wefts are crafted by hand. 

How to do

Here is how they do it.

1. Gather Necessary Tools

First, the craftsman gathers all the necessary tools:

• High-Quality Hair: They select ethically sourced and untreated hair to ensure durability and a natural look.

• Matching Thread: They choose a thread colour that matches the hair for discretion.

• Weaving Needle: They use a needle specifically designed for hair weaving.

• Weaving Board (Optional): They might use a weaving board to help maintain a straighter weft.

2. Select and Prepare Hair Strands

Next, the craftsman selects and prepares the hair strands:

• Select Desired Hair Strands: The craftsman ensures all roots face the same direction to minimise tangles and ensure a smooth blend, which is crucial for maintaining the longevity and natural appearance of the extensions.

• Discard Unsuitable Strands: They remove any strands with split ends, breakage, or excessive chemical processing. Very short hair strands are also discarded unless used for specific layering techniques.

3. Prepare the Thread

The craftsman then prepares the thread:

• Cut the Thread: They measure and cut a length of thread that exceeds the planned width of the weft.

• Secure One End: They attach one end of the thread to a stable object to keep it taut and manageable during the weaving process.

4. Begin Hand-Tying the Weft

Now, the craftsman begins hand-tying the weft:

• Grab a Small Bunch of Hair Strands: They typically gather 3-5 strands per bunch.

• Slip Under the Bottom Thread: The craftsman places the bunch under the bottom thread of the forming weft.

• Pierce Through the Hair Bunch: They use the needle and thread to pierce upwards through the centre of the hair bunch.

• Create the First Lock Knot: They loop the thread back down through the newly created loop and tighten it to secure the hair.

• Repeat for Consistency: The craftsman continues this process, adjusting the needle’s entry point slightly higher on each bunch before looping back down to form another lock knot, ensuring each knot is tightly secured.

5. Continue the Weaving Process

The craftsman continues the weaving process:

• Uniform Gaps: They maintain a consistent gap between each lock knot to ensure a neat and even appearance.

• Lock Knots: The craftsman consistently locks the hair strands between the threads to create a secure and durable weft.

6. Finalize the Weft

Finally, the craftsman finalizes the weft:

• Reach Desired Length: They continue tying lock knots until the weft reaches the desired length.

• Secure the Final Hair Bunch: They finish with a few extra knots to secure the last bunch of hair strands.

• Trim and Finish: The craftsman cuts the thread near the last knot and trims any uneven hair ends to create a polished and professional-looking weft.

Characteristics

Lighter Weight

The meticulous hand-tying process produces a weft that is significantly lighter than machine-sewn wefts. This lightness is due to the smaller, more precise knots and less stitching made during hand-tying, which use less material and create a finer, less bulky weft. This is ideal for clients with fine hair, as it reduces stress on the natural hair and scalp. In a long term, it prevents potential damage and discomfort.

More Delicate

The thin and flexible nature of hand-tied wefts allows them to lie flatter against the scalp. As a result, it creates a seamless and natural look. The fine construction makes these wefts less noticeable and better integrated with the natural hair.

Cannot Be Cut

Hand-tied wefts cannot be cut because doing so would unravel the individual hand-tied sections, causing the weft to fall apart. Each section of hair is tied to a continuous thread, and cutting it would break the thread, leading to the loss of hair strands. 

Machine-sewn weft extensions

Definition

As the name suggested, machine-sewn weft extensions are produced using sewing machines that stitch hair strands together in a continuous line. 

How Machine Make Weft Extensions

Similar to hand-tied wefts, the process starts with selecting high-quality hair strands and aligning them with the roots facing the same direction. Then, a long and sturdy material forms the base of the weft, which is fed into the machine. A separate system automatically feeds the hair strands at a consistent rate.

The heart of the machine is a high-speed sewing mechanism. This system uses a strong thread to stitch the hair strands directly onto the weft base, precisely controlling the distance and tension between stitches for a secure weft. Some machines even offer the option of creating a double weft by sewing two wefts together for a thicker and more voluminous extension.

Once the desired length is reached, the machine automatically cuts the weft. The finished product might undergo quality checks and trimming before reaching store shelves.

Characteristics

Can Be Cut

Unlike hand-tied wefts, machine-sewn wefts can be cut to size. This is because the stitching holds the hair strands securely in place, even after cutting. This flexibility allows for easy customisation to fit the client's head shape and size. Hairdressers will have more flexibility in versatility in styling and application.

Heavier

Machine-sewn wefts are generally heavier than hand-tied wefts due to the denser stitching and the thicker thread used in the sewing process. This added weight can be advantageous for clients with thicker hair who want to add significant volume and length without the risk of the weft slipping or moving out of place.

Thicker

The machine-sewing process creates a thicker, more robust weft. The stitching reinforces the weft. It make the weft more durable and able to withstand rigorous styling, washing, and maintenance. This thickness also contributes to the overall volume and fullness that machine-sewn wefts can provide. 

All things considered, they both have their pros and cons, yeah? Like a true blue double-edged sword, used right, you can grab the best of both worlds.

Regarding its process of manufacturing, you might have your own evaluation of which one is better fit for you. Generally, if affordability, speed, and consistent quality are your main concerns, machine-made wefts are a good option. However, if your hair salon normally serve clients who have thin hair, prioritize comfort and a natural look, and are willing to pay more, hand-tied wefts might be a better fit.

But as our recommendation, having both of them will give you the edge to combine the benefits of both weft hair extensions types to design the perfect suitable solution for your clients.

Based on Appearance

Flat Weft Hair Extensions

Flat weft extensions feature a thin, flexible base that lies flat against the scalp, providing a seamless blend with natural hair. This method can be applied using various techniques, such as sewing, beading, or adhesive. The flat construction ensures a comfortable and natural feel, reducing bulkiness. However, the attachment process can be more intricate, requiring precision to ensure the weft remains flat and secure.

Invisible Weft Hair Extensions

Invisible weft hair extensions are designed to provide an undetectable attachment by using thin and lightweight wefts that blend seamlessly with natural hair. This method can be attached using micro links, adhesive, or sewing techniques. The primary advantage is the natural look and feel, making it an excellent choice for clients who want discreet extensions. The delicate nature of invisible wefts, however, requires careful handling and regular maintenance to prevent damage.

Hybrid Weft Extensions

Hybrid weft extensions combine elements of different attachment methods to offer a versatile and customisable solution. 

This method can involve using tape, micro links, or beads in combination to achieve the desired effect. Hybrid wefts provide the flexibility to cater to specific client needs, offering a balance between secure attachment and natural appearance. However, the complexity of this method may require a higher level of expertise and more time for both application and maintenance.

Based on Attachment Methods

Now that you understand what weft hair extensions are and how they are made, let’s explore the common methods used to attach these weft hair extensions to natural hair.

Tape-In Extensions

Tape-in extensions are a semi-permanent attachment method where the extensions adhere to your client’s natural locks using adhesive tapes which are formulated specifically for hair extension application. 

This method is favoured for its quick application and seamless blend with natural hair. However, the adhesive can weaken over time, especially with frequent washing, requiring regular maintenance. Additionally, clients need to avoid oil-based hair products that can cause the tape to slip.

Clip In Hair Extensions

Clip-in hair extensions offer a quick boost of volume or length and are ideal for temporary use. This method involves attaching the wefts to natural hair using small, discreet clips. 

While convenient and non-damaging, clip-ins require daily removal and reapplication, which can be time-consuming. Besides, the quality of the clip will decide whether the weft hair extensions quality is good or not. So, pay attention to signs to recognize high-quality clips to avoid potential damage to your client's natural hair.

Bond Hair Extensions

Bond hair extensions use a heat tool to fuse the weft extensions to natural hair strands with a keratin-based adhesive. This method provides a long-lasting and secure bond. As many years working in this field, we highly recommend you apply it for clients seeking a permanent solution. 

However, the application process involves heat, which can be damaging to both the extensions and natural hair if not done correctly. Additionally, the removal process can be time-consuming. Hairdressers must experience the training before doing it!

Micro Link Extensions

Micro link extensions are an excellent option for those who want to steer clear of heat & glue. 

This method uses small metal beads to attach the extensions to natural hair strands. The beads are clamped securely to hold the extensions in place. While micro links are gentle on natural hair and allow for easy repositioning, they can be visible if not applied carefully. Clients should also avoid using oil-based products that can cause the beads to slip.

Beaded Weft Extensions

Beaded weft extensions combine weft hair with small silicone-lined beads to attach the wefts to natural hair. This method offers a secure and flexible attachment without the use of heat or glue. The beads are gentle on the hair and allow for easy adjustments. Nevertheless, similar to micro links, the beads can become visible if not properly covered, and clients should avoid oil-based products to maintain the attachment’s integrity.

What To Look For In High-Quality, Ethically Sourced Hair Wefts

First of all, when choosing hair wefts, not only hair salons and hairdressers but even clients who need weft hair extensions expect or require the hair to be ethically sourced. What does this mean? This means that the hair is collected with the donor's consent and that the process supports fair labour practices and environmental sustainability.

Ethically sourced hair not only ensures a clear conscience but also often leads to better quality products. The transparency in the source makes everyone feel happy and comfortable when using them. So, never underestimate this factor.

Another thing is, if possible, selecting Remy hair. Remy hair is known for its alignment of cuticles in the same direction. This meticulous alignment process ensures the hair remains smooth, shiny, and tangle-free. As a result, your extensions will have greater longevity and maintain their beauty until the end.

Last but not least, high-quality hair wefts are typically composed of a higher percentage of thicker and longer strands. How does this benefit your clients? Since the hair is of high quality, fewer wefts are needed to achieve the desired volume and length compared to single-drawn hair extensions, which include shorter strands. The result is a more natural look with less bulk and a more streamlined application process. 

When you can control the source of your product, your final masterpiece will always be on top of the choices for your target clients.

Conclusion

There are several types of weft hair extensions out there with different definitions based on how they are collected, how they are attached, or even how they are made. So, before deciding on what is best for your hair salon or clients, never hesitate to get consultations from your hair extension suppliers.

Lily Beauty Hair Extensions has over 10 years of experience manufacturing extensions. We own the most diversified range of hair extensions, hair extension tools, and accessories in Australia. Check them out and let us know if you have any questions. We would love to serve you!