Getting a Net Weave - Popular Weaving Technique
The net weave, or supported method, is one of the most flexible and least damaging options currently available to women who want to wear a hairpiece. Traditional applied hair methods have limitations and women with thin hair and bald spots cannot use them as effectively as the supported method.
This method of applying a weave is a secret weapon for those who want to avoid overtaxing their hair. A less damaging alternative, you sew the hair directly onto the woven tread of the material and not onto the braid. This distributes the weight of the applied hair evenly, without the repetitious sewing and damage to the healthy natural hair underneath.
To get started, section off and separate any area the client wants left out, then braid the natural hair.
- Braid the hair, you are leaving out of the net, in a large section and pin it down so it won't interfere with the sewing process.
- Section off the hair that is being prepped to receive the material and then braid it underneath to avoid the hair from becoming tangled and matted from the motion of the flexible nets.
- Place the net weave on top of these braids and secure them later. It is important to make these braids as small as possible so they will remain minimally visible.
There is no need to follow any set or standard pattern when designing the layout for these braids, as you will eventually sew the hair to the material and not the braids themselves. The most important thing is to minimize the size of the braids along the scalp line.
Cut a horseshoe pattern in the woven material and wrap it around the head. Remember to leave room for the hair the client wants to leave out if the net. Secure this woven material piece to the parameter of the hairline and not to the central area.
The unattached central area should be tight enough that the horseshoe will hold well to the scalp but should leave some room as to not cut into the healthy hair underneath. Once secured, begin sewing the hair weave directly onto the woven material.
When dealing with women who have bald spots and only want a partial weave, the process is generally the same except that you must place the track braid at the parameter and place the net weave over the top of the area that is thinning or bald. As the stylist, sew the net directly onto the track and then sew the hairpiece onto the woven material itself.
If you follow these guidelines, you will be enjoying your new net weave in no time. Many prefer this method of hair replacement or enhancement as it avoids the unsightly mess that can be a result of over-weaved hair. It is secure and can be treated the same as most other weaves and because of the small braids underneath, looks very natural.
This is the most flexible methods for women who like to change there look and enjoy the benefits of applied hair verses a traditional wig. Happy weaving!
