Materials Needed
Before you start making yarn dreads, gather the following materials:
- Yarn: Choose a soft, durable yarn in the colors you desire. Acrylic yarn is a popular choice due to its affordability and variety of colors. Wool can also be used for a more natural look.
- Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for cutting the yarn to the desired length.
- Comb or Brush: A wide-tooth comb works best for detangling your hair and separating sections.
- Hair Ties or Clips: These will help you section off your hair while you work on creating and installing the dreads.
- Hot Glue Gun (optional): This is useful for securing the ends of the yarn dreads if you want a more permanent finish.
- Lighter (optional): If you choose synthetic yarn, you can use a lighter to seal the ends of the yarn and prevent fraying.
- Tapestry Needle or Large-Eyed Needle: This will help you thread yarn into the dreadlocks for added security.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Yarn Dreads
Now that you have all your materials ready, let’s dive into the process of making yarn dreads.
1. Prepare Your Yarn
- Decide on Length: Determine how long you want your dreads to be. Typically, they can range from short to long, depending on your preference.
- Cutting the Yarn: Cut strands of yarn to your desired length. A good rule of thumb is to cut the yarn twice as long as the finished dread will be since you'll be folding it in half. For example, if you want a 24-inch dread, cut 48-inch yarn pieces.
- Color Coordination: If you plan to use multiple colors, consider how you want to blend them. You can create a gradient effect or alternate different colors.
2. Creating the Dreads
- Folding the Yarn: Take a strand of yarn and fold it in half, creating a loop at the top. This loop will be the point where you attach the dread to your hair.
- Adding Texture: To give your dreads a more authentic look, you can twist the yarn tightly or braid it with other strands. This will help create a more defined shape.
- Sealing the Ends: If you want to secure the ends, you can use a hot glue gun to apply a small amount of glue to the tips of the yarn. Alternatively, if you’re using synthetic yarn, you can lightly singe the ends with a lighter to seal them.
3. Installing Yarn Dreads
Once you have created your yarn dreads, it’s time to install them in your hair.
- Section Your Hair: Use clips or hair ties to divide your hair into manageable sections. The size of each section will depend on how thick you want each dread to be. A good starting point is to make sections about the size of a pencil.
- Attaching the Dreads:
1. Take a section of your natural hair and the loop from your yarn dread.
2. Pull the natural hair through the loop of the yarn.
3. Hold the yarn at the base and wrap it around the hair, moving downwards to cover the natural hair completely.
4. Continue wrapping until you reach the end of your natural hair, ensuring that the yarn is tightly secured.
5. If desired, you can secure the end by tying it or using a small amount of glue to keep it in place.
- Repeat: Continue this process until all your yarn dreads are installed.
4. Styling Your Yarn Dreads
Yarn dreads can be styled in many different ways to suit your personality:
- Updos: You can pull your yarn dreads into a bun or ponytail for a chic look.
- Braids: Incorporate your yarn dreads into braids for added texture and interest.
- Accessories: Use beads, flowers, or string to decorate your dreads and show off your unique style.
Maintenance of Yarn Dreads
To keep your yarn dreads looking their best, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Cleaning
- Gentle Washing: Wash your yarn dreads carefully with a gentle shampoo. Avoid soaking them in water for long periods, as this can lead to frizz and tangling.
- Conditioner: Use a lightweight conditioner, but avoid applying it directly to the yarn dreads. Instead, condition your natural hair and rinse thoroughly before reinstalling the dreads.
2. Detangling
- Regular Checks: Periodically check your yarn dreads for any tangling or frizz. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle any knots.
3. Reinstallation
- Longevity: Depending on how often you wear your yarn dreads, you may need to reinstall them every few weeks or months. This can involve removing the dreads and reattaching them to fresh sections of hair.
Removing Yarn Dreads
When you decide it's time to take out your yarn dreads, follow these simple steps:
- Cutting the Yarn: Use scissors to carefully cut the yarn dreads at the base. Be cautious not to cut your natural hair.
- Gently Pulling: Once you’ve cut the yarn, gently pull the dreads out of your hair. If they are tightly secured, you may need to work them out slowly.
- Post-Removal Care: After removing the dreads, be sure to wash and condition your natural hair to restore moisture and minimize any damage from the installation process.
Conclusion
Making yarn dreads is a creative and enjoyable process that allows you to express your individuality. With the right materials and a little practice, you can create stunning dreads that enhance your style while being easy to maintain. Whether you choose to wear them for a day or a month, yarn dreads can be a fun way to experiment with your look. So gather your supplies and let your creativity flow as you learn how to make dreads out of yarn!
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials do I need to make dreads out of yarn?
You will need yarn (preferably 100% acrylic for durability), scissors, a crochet hook, and optional hair ties or clips for sectioning.
How do I prepare my hair before making yarn dreads?
Start with clean, dry hair. You may want to section your hair into parts to make the process easier, and consider using a leave-in conditioner for manageability.
What is the best technique for attaching yarn to hair?
The most common technique is to fold a length of yarn in half, place the loop at the root of the section, and then wrap the ends of the yarn down the length of your hair, securing with a knot at the end.
How do I create the dread texture with yarn?
You can create the dread texture by using a crochet hook to pull and twist the yarn tightly as you wrap it around your hair. You can also backcomb the yarn slightly for added texture.
How long do yarn dreads typically last?
Yarn dreads can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how well you maintain them and your hair care routine.
Can I dye yarn dreads, and if so, how?
Yes, you can dye yarn dreads using fabric dye or spray dye. Just make sure to follow the dye instructions and let the yarn dry completely before installing the dreads.
