We received several calls and emails from our Hair-N-Paris family and friends wanting to know the difference between a sew-in and a quick weave. Although a sew-in and a quick weave are very different, they do have one thing in common. Both styles use bundled hair extensions that contain the track or weft. This is when multiple strands of donor's hair are sewn together creating a strip horizontally across the top of the strands, bonding the hair to what is called a track or weft. Now that you know what they have in common, let's break down the differences between a sew-in and a quick weave.

A sew-in is when your natural hair is braided into cornrows and the hair track is sewn to the braids. Some stylists use circular, straight back, or zig-zag braiding patterns, which depend on the sew-in hairstyle. Braiding your hair helps protect your natural hair while wearing your sew-in. Once your hair has been braided MOST stylists add a hair net over the braids, which provide an extra layer of protection for your natural hair as well as provide extra spacing for a fuller sew-in. A sew-in takes about 2 hours or less to install and can last two to four months depending on maintenance and your hair care routine. The cost of a sew-in is around 150 dollars and up, not including your hair extensions. This style is meant to last a few months so you would want to make sure to purchase high-quality bundles, like the ones offered at Hair-N-Paris. A sew-in is safe for swimming and other water activities. Read more about how to care for your sew-in while swimming at the Hair-N-Paris blog titled, "Will Chlorine Damage My Hair". You can also wash your hair while wearing a sew-in, I suggest washing at least once a week. A sew-in is a great protective hairstyle; you will have lots of new growth once your install is removed. You can also reuse your bundles for a second install if you purchased high-quality human hair extensions, like the bundles that are sold at Hair-N-Paris. 

A quick weave is when your natural hair is gelled or braided back and the hair extension track is bonded down over your natural hair. Another method is when your natural hair is parted and the track is glued to your scalp using hair bonding glue. The method that is safest for your natural hair is to have your hair braided back and apply a stocking cap over your hair before gluing down the tracks. Bonding glue can be very hard to remove and can be damaging to your natural hair if not applied correctly. A quick weave takes about an hour to install and can last up to two to four weeks. The cost of a quick weave is around 50 dollars and up, not including the hair extensions. Unlike a sew-in, you probably should not wash or swim in a quick weave. An excessive about of water could cause the bonding glue to slip, and you might lose a track or two. Once the hair extensions are removed from a quick weave install, it is not likely that the tracks would be reused for a second install. This is due to the bonding glue, which could become somewhat lumpy and sticky. However, you can use coconut oil to help you remove the bonding glue from your hair. Since you will probably not be able to reuse the hair bundles and the style does not last as long as a sew-in, it would be best to purchase hair bundles that are less expensive or reuse some of your recycled high-quality bundles. 

If you are still reading you, then you have a clear understanding of the differences between a sew-in and a quick weave. Now you are ready to decide the method of your next install, quick weave or sew-in. Also, feel free to visit Hair-N-Paris online to purchase your bundles and closures. Thank you for reading; reach out with any questions. You may also comment directly on this blog post or email us at sales@hairnparis.com