Knotless braids are a popular protective hairstyle that provides a sleek, natural look while reducing tension on the scalp. Unlike traditional box braids, knotless braids are created without the small, tight knots at the base of each braid, making them more comfortable to wear and gentler on your natural hair. Using a crochet needle can streamline the process, making it quicker and more efficient. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating beautiful knotless braids with a crochet needle.
What Are Knotless Braids?
Before diving into the process, let’s understand what knotless braids are and why they are preferred by many.
Advantages of Knotless Braids
Less Tension: Knotless braids are installed without the traditional knot at the base, which minimizes scalp tension and pain.
Natural Look: Because the braiding starts with your natural hair, the braids seamlessly blend, giving a more natural appearance.
Lightweight: Without the bulk at the base of the braids, knotless braids are lighter and more comfortable to wear.
Scalp Health: The absence of tight knots reduces the risk of hair breakage and promotes healthier scalp conditions.
Why Use a Crochet Needle?
Using a crochet needle for knotless braids speeds up the braiding process and ensures that the added hair extensions are secured and blended naturally with your own hair. The crochet needle also helps in creating a seamless transition between your hair and the extensions.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before getting started, ensure you have the following materials and tools:
- Hair extensions (braiding hair of your choice)
- Crochet needle (latch hook tool)
- Wide-tooth comb
- Edge control or gel
- Rat-tail comb (for sectioning)
- Clips (to hold hair in place)
- Moisturizing spray (optional for hydration)
- Hair mousse (for a smooth finish)
- Scissors (to trim excess hair)
Step 1: Prep Your Hair and Extensions
Before installing the braids, it’s essential to prepare both your natural hair and the braiding extensions.
Prepping Your Natural Hair
Wash and Condition: Begin by washing your hair thoroughly using a hydrating shampoo and a nourishing conditioner. This helps remove any dirt, oil, or buildup.
Moisturize and Detangle: Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your hair moisturized. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair, ensuring there are no knots.
Blow-Dry or Stretch: For easier braiding, blow-dry or stretch your hair using a low-heat setting to minimize shrinkage. Ensure your hair is completely dry before proceeding.
Prepping the Extensions
Separate the Hair Extensions: Pre-section the braiding hair into smaller strands. The sections should be small enough to match the size of the braids you want to create.
Lay the Extensions Flat: Place the separated extensions on a clean surface for easy access while braiding.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Sectioning your hair correctly will ensure neat and uniform braids. Here’s how to do it:
Part Your Hair: Use a rat-tail comb to create a clean middle part from the front to the nape of your neck. Then, divide the hair horizontally into rows.
Create Smaller Sections: Each row should be further divided into smaller square or rectangular sections, depending on how thick you want your braids to be. Use hair clips to hold the sections in place while you work.
Pro Tip:
Smaller sections result in more braids, giving you a fuller and more intricate look, while larger sections result in fewer, chunkier braids.
Step 3: Start Braiding with the Crochet Needle
Now comes the key part—attaching the braiding hair to your natural hair using a crochet needle.
Insert the Crochet Needle
Insert the Needle: Take the crochet needle and insert it under the base of the section of natural hair, starting near the scalp. Make sure the latch is open as you slide it under the hair.
Attach the Extension: Loop the pre-sectioned hair extension over the hook of the crochet needle, then close the latch to secure the hair.
Pull the Hair Through: Gently pull the crochet needle back under the section of hair, bringing the extension hair through until the loop is halfway. This creates a neat foundation for the knotless braid.
Begin Braiding
Divide the Natural Hair: Split the section of natural hair into three equal parts, and add the hair extension into one of the sections. Make sure the extension blends well with your natural hair.
Braid the Hair: Start braiding the hair as you normally would, ensuring that the added extension is securely incorporated into the braid. Continue braiding down the length of the hair, maintaining a tight yet gentle grip.
Add More Extensions: As you continue to braid, add more braiding hair extensions to keep the braid length uniform. Use small sections to create a smooth, consistent look.
Repeat for Each Section: Follow this process for each section of your hair until your entire head is braided.
Pro Tip:
For a seamless finish, make sure you are consistently feeding in the hair extensions without creating noticeable bumps or lumps at the base.
See Also: What Is The Best Type Of Hair For Box Braids
Step 4: Secure and Finish the Braids
Once you’ve completed braiding, you’ll need to secure the ends and ensure that your braids look polished.
Sealing the Ends
There are a few ways to secure the ends of your braids:
Hot Water: Dip the ends of the braids into hot water to seal them and prevent unraveling.
Burning: Lightly burn the ends of synthetic hair to melt the fibers and seal the braid (only for synthetic hair types).
Braiding Gel: Use a small amount of braiding gel at the ends to keep them from loosening.
Smoothing and Setting
Trim Loose Strands: Use scissors to trim any loose or stray hairs from the braids, ensuring a neat and uniform appearance.
Apply Mousse: Finish by applying a light layer of hair mousse over your braids to reduce frizz and add shine.
Edge Control: Use edge control or gel to style and lay down your edges for a sleek finish.
Step 5: Maintaining Knotless Braids
Knotless braids can last for several weeks if maintained properly. Here’s how to care for your braids:
Moisturize Regularly: Use a lightweight moisturizing spray or oil to hydrate your scalp and keep the braids looking fresh.
Sleep with a Scarf or Bonnet: Cover your braids with a satin scarf or bonnet at night to protect them from friction and reduce frizz.
Avoid Over-Washing: Wash your braids gently when needed, focusing on cleansing the scalp rather than the braids themselves. Use a diluted shampoo and apply it with an applicator bottle for easier distribution.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too Much Tension: Avoid pulling too tightly on your natural hair when braiding. Knotless braids should be comfortable and tension-free.
Uneven Sections: Ensure that your braids are even by carefully sectioning your hair. Uneven sections can lead to lopsided or bulky braids.
Neglecting the Scalp: Don’t forget to care for your scalp while wearing braids. Keeping the scalp clean and moisturized is essential for the health of your hair.
Conclusion
Knotless braids with a crochet needle are an excellent way to achieve a natural, protective hairstyle with less tension on your scalp. By following these simple steps, you can create beautiful, long-lasting braids that enhance your natural beauty while promoting hair health. With practice, you’ll find that this method is not only quicker but also easier than traditional knotless braiding techniques. Remember to care for your braids and scalp to ensure your style stays fresh for weeks to come.