Doing faux locs using the crochet method involves braiding your natural hair and then using a latch hook to attach pre-made faux locs. This technique is popular for its speed and ease compared to traditional wrapping methods.
Understanding the Crochet Method
The crochet method for installing faux locs utilizes pre-looped or easily looped synthetic or human hair locs. Your natural hair is typically braided into cornrows, and then the locs are attached directly to these braids using a crochet or latch hook tool. This significantly reduces installation time.
Materials You'll Need
To get started with crochet faux locs, gather these essential items:
- Pre-made faux locs (ensure you have enough packs for your desired look)
- Latch hook or crochet needle specifically designed for hair
- Rat-tail comb (for parting)
- Hair clips (to section hair)
- Edge control or pomade (optional)
- Scissors (for trimming)
Preparing Your Natural Hair
Before you begin crocheting, your natural hair needs to be prepped:
- Wash and Deep Condition: Start with clean, moisturized hair.
- Detangle: Ensure your hair is free of knots for smooth braiding.
- Braid Your Hair: The most common method is to braid your hair into cornrows. The pattern of the cornrows will affect the final look of the locs. Straight back cornrows are typical, but circular or intricate patterns can also be used. Secure the ends of your cornrows.
Step-by-Step Crochet Installation
Here's how to install faux locs using the crochet method, incorporating the technique from the provided reference:
- Section Your Hair: Use hair clips to section off the cornrows you are not currently working on.
- Prepare the Faux Loc: Take one pre-made faux loc. If it's pre-looped, ensure the loop is open. If not, create a small loop at the top.
- Insert the Hook: Open the latch hook and put it under the root of one of your cornrows, where you want the loc to be attached. Push the hook through the cornrow until the latch is on the other side.
- Latch the Loc: Hook the loop of the faux loc onto the open latch of the crochet needle. Close the latch securely so the loc doesn't slip off.
- Pull Through the Cornrow: Slide the hook back through the cornrow, pulling the loop of the faux loc with it. This will create a loop on the other side of the cornrow.
- Secure Your Natural Hair: While the loop of the faux loc is still open, take the end of your natural hair cornrow (or a section of it) and attach it to the end of the hook.
- Pull Natural Hair Through the Loc Loop: Close the latch on the hook and pull it through the loop of the faux loc you just created. This threads your natural hair through the loc's loop.
- Tighten: Gently pull the faux loc and your natural hair to tighten the knot, securing the loc firmly to the cornrow. Be careful not to pull too tightly, which can cause discomfort.
- Repeat: Continue this process across your entire head until all cornrows have faux locs attached.
Maintaining Your Crochet Faux Locs
To keep your faux locs looking fresh:
- Sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf to protect them and reduce frizz.
- Lightly oil your scalp to maintain moisture.
- Cleanse your scalp as needed using a spray-on cleanser or by gently dabbing with a cloth.
- Avoid heavy products that can cause buildup.
Following these steps will help you successfully install and maintain crochet faux locs, giving you a stylish protective hairstyle.
