Everything You Need To Know About Versatile Sew-Ins

Versatile Sew-In

Versatile sew-ins are just what they are called versatile! The versatile sew-in has been taking over the hair industry for the past few years. Although, there is not much talk about versatile sew-ins that are steadily used amongst the black community due to the versatility allowing the switch up with all textures, unlike traditional sew-ins. 

What Is A Versatile Sew-In?

A versatile sew-in is a braiding pattern and installation of tracks that allow more styling options for you. What truly separates this method from a standard sew-in install is the braiding pattern and the amount of leave out. Instead of braiding all of the hair into a beehive, your hair is parted into four sections and mini beehives are braided in those four quadrants. You then have a perimeter leave out and leave out left out around each quadrant. 
Amazing Versatile Sew-Ins/ Ballice Virgin Hair

 Benefits Of A Versatile Sew-In

Just like everything else, there will always be pros and cons. The main pro of versatile sew-ins is the flexible styling options. With your standard sew-in, you are stuck with one maybe two styles, unless you do not mind your tracks to show when styling your hair in other styles. Other pros and cons include:
  •  Maximum styling versatility 
  •  Various parting options for multiple styles
  •  Full up styles or half up half down style 
  •  High ponytails and high bun options 
  •  Blends seamlessly with your hair 

Cons Of A Versatile Sew-In

  •  Wefts have to be cut when using this method unless the fold-over method is used
  •  You have more hair left out meaning more maintenance and damage from heat, environment, and styling tools 
  •  Uneven hair growth
  •  Added tension from the braiding pattern and certain styles 

How Long Does Versatile Sew-Ins Last 

Versatile Sew-In


Versatile sew-ins tend to last up to six to eight weeks when maintained properly. If you try to keep the sew-in longer you run the risk of hair damage and scalp irritation. 

How Much Hair Do I Need for Versatile Sew-in?

How many bundles depends on the length and style you are trying to achieve. 18’ inches and shorter usually requires around two to three bundles of hair. This gives you a medium-full hairstyle. 20’ to 24’ will require around four bundles depending on the desired fullness. 26’ or longer requires four to six bundles, use as many or less as needed depending on your preference. 

Various Options For Versatile Sew-In

Various methods use two and three-section options. These options create different hairstyles versus the four-quadrant versatile sew-in pattern. You should do your research and look into all your styling options. Also, discuss the pros and cons of each braid pattern with your hairstylist, this will help guide you on your decision. 

How Long Does A Versatile Sew In Install Take

A versatile sew-in generally takes about two to three hours from beginning to end. This is the time limit for a versatile sew-in that has three to four bundles. More bundles will equate to a longer start to finish time. Timing depends on your stylist's technique and their experience level. 

The Process Of A Versatile Sew-In

Before styling your hair, be sure to clean your hair thoroughly using a clarifying shampoo. After using a clarifying shampoo condition and nourish your scalp by doing an oil treatment. 

  • Step 1: Braiding - Start by parting the hair. Begin sectioning the hair off around the edges of your head. Leave out about an inch of hair around your perimeter. Also, leave some of your hair out in the middle and cross-sections. Begin braiding your first section in a circular beehive braid. Remember to leave out your hair to blend it in. Lastly, wear a net to flatten your braided hair more.
  • Step 2: Sewing - Curved needles are superior when doing a sew-in. Sew in the hair from the bottom left and bottom right. The important thing to do is by making the stitches as close as humanly possible, this makes everything tight and neat. Try using the fold over method If you do not want to cut your extensions. Finish sewing the sections remembering to tie the thread at the end into a knot when finishing the sew-in. 
  • Step 3: Blend - Make sure that your leave out is enough hair to blend with your extensions. Unbraid your that was left out and apply heat protectant before using your heat styling tools. However, if you have installed curly hair, blend the hair with a curling iron or use curling rods. 

Versatile Sew-In Hairstyles 

1.Half Up Half Down Curly Hair Sew-In

Half up half down hairstyles are effortless to achieve when using a versatile sew-in. Due to the leave out you are able to tie your hair up at the top of your head into a ponytail or bun for a more polished look. 

2.Straight High Ponytail 

Straight hair is always a sleek, versatile, and simple option when getting sew-in. Add the versatility of a versatile sew-in and the options are endless. You can part your hair into two or four parts, or you even opt to put your hair into a high ponytail.

3.Kinky Hair Versatile Sew-In

Various hairstyles can be accomplished with a kinky weave. Kinky hair texture is the closest and most authentic looking weave to natural hair. You can try pigtails, half up half down, mohawks, buns, and high ponytail. 

4.Versatile Sew-In and Bangs 

Bangs, yes bangs are a good option for a versatile sew-in. Even with the versatile style, bangs can reduce the leave you have left out. Trust us, it will look amazing!

5.Bangs That Are Side Swept 

These bangs work amazingly with people who have broad foreheads. 


Maintaining Your Versatile Sew-In

Your style will not last long if you aren’t properly maintaining it. The same way you maintain a regular sew-in is the same way you would manage a versatile sew-in. It is easier to find your hair due to the parting. Other maintenance tips include:

  • 1.Shampoo your hair every two weeks 
  • 2.Condition your hair 
  • 3.Do not neglect the hair under your weave 
  • 4.Dry your hair properly 
  • 5.Make sure you are properly wrapping your hair when sleeping 
  • 6.Use the proper hair care products 
  • 7.Oil your scalp so it won’t be dry 
  • 8.Take proper care of your leave out 


Original Video Post on Jun 22, 2019. https://bit.ly/3DZM5Sj


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