How to Get Tight Curls for a Straight Weave

By: Mimi Abney

Eamonn McCormack/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Thin and lifeless hair is no longer a beauty dilemma. In fact, a sleek and straight hair weave – whether chin length or longer-- is a glamorous way to add body, sensuous layers, and fullness to your sparse strands. Whether the synthetic or human hair is bonded, fused or sewn into your cornrowed hair, you can add tight curls to your straight locks without hiring a glam squad or a taking a pricey trip to the beauty salon.

Synthetic Hair

Step 1

Start with freshly washed and damp hair. Gently comb hair with a wide-tooth comb to release tangles.

Step 2

Spray a two-inch section of hair with a setting lotion. Roll hair horizontally on a one-inch or medium-size plastic roller from the tips to the scalp. Make sure to wrap the ends of the hair carefully on to the roller to create smooth and complete curls.

Step 3

Secure the plastic roller with a large bobby pin. Repeat with small two-inch sections all over your head. The smaller the sections of hair, the tighter the curl.

Step 4

Set a hooded hair dryer on medium heat. Sit under the dryer for a minimum of 60 to 90 minutes – or until both the hair on your scalp and the synthetic fibers are completely dry to the touch. A wet weave can lead to matted hair, mildew and odor.

Step 5

Let curls cool for five to 10 minutes. Remove the hair from the rollers and finger-comb.

Human Hair

Step 1

Begin with dry hair. Divide hair into four equal sections. Place a large butterfly clip on each section to keep separate.

Step 2

Turn a one-inch curling iron on low- to medium-heat. Wrap two-inch pieces vertically around the barrel of the iron. Twirl the iron away from the face. Let the iron remain in the hair for no more than seven to 10 seconds.

Step 3

Slide the iron down and out of the curl. To create tight curls, secure the curl to your head with a large bobby pin. Repeat until you curl all hair with the curling iron and create the pin curls.