Reattaching Broken Locs with a Crochet Needle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Locs are more than just a hairstyle; to some they’re a journey of life self-expression & patience. But with any journey, there can be stumps along the way. One common issue that many with locs encounter is breakage or thinning locs. Fortunately, the right tools & techniques can help with reattaching, broken locs can be a simple process. One of the most effective methods for this is using a crochet needle.
Understanding Loc Breakage
Loc breakage can happen for a variety of reasons. It might be due to dryness, excessive manipulation, or even tension from styling. Regardless of the cause, seeing a loc break can be disheartening. But the good news is that broken locs don’t have to be the end of your loc journey. With a little care, you can reattach them and continue growing your beautiful locs.
Why Use a Crochet Needle?
A crochet needle is a popular tool among those who maintain locs. It’s small, precise, and perfect for tasks like reattaching broken locs, tightening new growth, or even creating instant locs. The crochet needle method is preferred because it allows you to reattach locs seamlessly, ensuring that the loc remains strong and blends well with the rest of your hair.
What You’ll Need:
- A Crochet Needle: Typically, a 0.5 mm or 0.75 mm crochet needle works best for reattaching locs. The size depends on the thickness of your locs and the look you’re going for.
- Broken Loc: Make sure to keep the broken piece of loc; it will be reattached to its original base.
- Patience: This process requires a steady hand and some time, but the results are worth it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reattaching Broken Locs
1. Prepare the Loc: Start by ensuring both the broken loc and the base where it will be reattached are clean and slightly damp. This makes the hair more pliable and easier to work with.
2. Insert the Crochet Needle: Take your crochet needle and gently insert it into the base of the loc where the break occurred. Be careful not to damage the surrounding hair.
3. Position the Broken Loc: Place the broken loc against the base, aligning it as closely as possible to its original position. Hold it firmly in place as you work.
4. Begin Crocheting: Using the crochet needle, begin pulling small strands of hair from the broken loc through the base loc. The goal is to interweave the hair so that the broken loc becomes securely attached to the base. Move the needle in and out of the loc, twisting slightly as you go to create a tight connection.
5. Secure the Attachment: Continue this process until the loc feels securely reattached. You may need to use your fingers to smooth out the loc and ensure it blends well with the rest of your hair.
6. Finishing Touches: Once the loc is reattached, you can palm roll it or use a bit of natural oil to help smooth any frizz and ensure the loc looks uniform with the others.
Aftercare Tips
After reattaching a broken loc, it’s important to take care of it to prevent future breakage. Here are some tips:
- Moisturize Regularly: Keep your locs hydrated with natural oils or loc moisturizers.
- Be Gentle: Avoid excessive tension or rough handling of your locs.
- Protective Styling: Consider protective styles that reduce stress on your locs, especially while sleeping.
Reattaching broken locs with a crochet needle is a valuable skill for anyone on a loc journey. It allows you to maintain the integrity of your locs and continue your journey without setbacks. With a little practice, you can master this technique and keep your locs looking strong and beautiful. Remember, patience and gentle care are key to the health and longevity of your locs
