How Do You Clip Your Hair with Clippers?

Clipping your hair with clippers involves a careful process of gradually shortening the hair to your desired length, using guards to control the cut. Here's a breakdown of how to do it:

Preparation is Key

1. Gather your supplies: You'll need hair clippers, various clipper guards (the numbered attachments that determine hair length), a comb, a mirror (and possibly a hand mirror for the back), a cape or towel to protect your clothing, and optionally, hair clips to section off longer hair.
2. Clean and dry your hair: Clippers work best on clean, dry hair. Washing your hair removes any product buildup that could interfere with the clippers.
3. Choose your desired length: Select the appropriate clipper guard based on how short you want your hair. Remember, you can always cut more off, but you can't put it back. It's often best to start with a longer guard and work your way down. A guide like this can be helpful:

   • 1: 1/8 inch or 3 mm

   • 2: 1/4 inch or 6 mm

   • 3: 3/8 inch or 9 mm

   • 4: 1/2 inch or 12 mm

   • 5: 5/8 inch or 16 mm

   • 6: 3/4 inch or 19 mm

   • 7: 7/8 inch or 22 mm

   • 8: 1 inch or 25 mm

4. Attach the guard: Securely attach the chosen guard to the clipper.

Clipping Your Hair

1. Start clipping: Turn on the clippers. Begin at the nape of your neck or the sides of your head, working your way up.
2. Use a consistent motion: Hold the clippers flat against your head and move them in an upward motion, against the direction of hair growth. Overlap each pass slightly to ensure an even cut.
3. Comb your hair: Regularly comb your hair to remove loose clippings and ensure that you're cutting evenly. This also helps lift the hair so the clippers can catch it.
4. Cut against the grain: Always cut against the way your hair grows and lays to ensure an even cut.
5. Gradually shorten: If desired, switch to shorter guards to blend different lengths or create a fade. Pay close attention to the transition areas between different guard lengths to avoid harsh lines.
6. Use your non-dominant hand: Learn to use your non-dominant hand to cut the opposite sides of your head for more symmetrical results.
7. Check your work: Use a hand mirror to inspect the back of your head. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure an even cut all around.
8. Tidy up the edges: Remove the guard and carefully trim around your ears, sideburns, and neckline for a clean, polished look. You can use the clippers without a guard or dedicated trimming attachments for this.
9. Go slow: This is key! Take your time and avoid rushing, as it can lead to mistakes.
10. Avoid hair jams: Stop occasionally while cutting to ensure there is no hair caught in the clippers as this could cause irritation or uneven cuts.

Finishing Touches

1. Clean up: Use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove loose hair from your neck, shoulders, and the surrounding area.
2. Style your hair: Style your hair as usual.

Clipping your own hair takes practice, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. With patience and attention to detail, you can achieve a decent haircut at home.