DIY Clip-In Hair Extensions

Youtube is just absolutely amazing. Honest. There isn't anything you can think of that isn't on Youtube already! So, thanks to Youtube, here's another DIY that I have just completed.

I just relaxed my hair after about a year and a half hiatus. My hair texture is very "'fine" aka thin! So I usually use a weave to  give my hair body as well as length. But this time I want to keep my hair healthy and protected despite wearing a weave. With clip-ins I can remove them easily, wash, treat and moisturize easily. That is the main reason I have chosen to go the way of clip-ins. Not to mention it is easier on the pocket!

It is pretty easy and all you need are:

1. Hair Extension (of your choice)
2. Wig Clips
3. Needle & Thread
4. Scissors
5. Elbow grease *-*

For my Antiguans, wig clips are available from most of the Beauty Supply Stores in St John's. Ayoushee sells them for EC$4.95 per pair (both small and medium are the same price); while Sam's has them for EC$5.75 per pair. (Pricey when you realize the amount of clips you need but much cheaper in the long run with not having to go to a hairdresser).

Here is a clip on how to make your own clip-in hair extensions.

And here is how to install them!

You can even plait up your hair and clip in your extensions!

So, ladies, browse around Youtube for other clips as you can also make clip-in bangs etc. You can also wear clip-ins as a full head application (that is braiding your full head and clipping in your extensions). The possibilities are virtually endless so go on and have some fun with it!

Tips: 
* Clip-ins are meant to last a very long time so when choosing extension be sure to use those of good quality that are sure to last as long as you hope for. 
* In the videos, they often double the weave before sewing onto the clip. However, for those with thinner hair (like myself) you may want to stitch one layer onto the lower holes and the other layer in the top holes. This will reduce the bulkiness for thin hair.
* Regular needle and regular black thread are just as effective as weave threads and needles. Don't go buying unnecessary things.

Enjoy x

PS - don't forget to talk back to me if you have done these before or if you plan to do so after reading this post!

DIY - Cute as a Button Stud Earrings!

Those ladies who are legitimate accessories junkies knows that it can get a bit pricey when purchasing ready-made accessories; even if you are buying from Forever21 or Charlotte Russe! But accessories also makes or breaks an outfit so you can't really do without them. But don't worry, a solution is here! All you need to have is at least 1% of a crafter in you. I am talking about BUTTONS! Regular old buttons which can be purchase for mere cents to a dollar something! These little cuties can be turned into extremely cute earrings that are one-of-a-kind and super unique!

They are literally 'cute as a button' *-*

Here's what you'll need:

• Buttons - can be found at Lolita's, Little B&J's or Marcanno's in Antigua (or any fabric/craft store elsewhere)
• Earring Posts & Backs - I haven't been able to find these in Antigua, but if you have one of those US postal addresses you can easily order these items from Amazon or Walmart. I purchased mine at http://www.firemountaingems.com/ which has a wide variety of earring findings. I use D & J Forwarders to import and they have pretty decent prices. They clear the stuff thru Customs and bill you on collection.
• Glue - An industrial strength glue would be great and can be purchased at any hardware store. I am using Industrial Strength E-6000 clear multi-purpose adhesive and that works pretty well. DO NOT use a hot glue gun as that does not work. It sticks initially but comes off way too easy!
• Button Shank Pliers - this is a little tool used to cut the shank off those buttons which comes with a shank. It cuts off the shank completely leaving you with a flat surface to glue your back on to. I did not look for this nifty tool in Antigua as I purchased it off Amazon when I was ordering some stuff there. I am certain that you will be able to find it here if you ask around.

And THAT'S IT! Add a little time and minimum elbow grease and its time to start making your very own earrings!

The Process

1. If using shank buttons, cut the shanks off each button. 
2. When done, turn the buttons right side up and position them in the direction you would like them to fit into your ear when done. If using small buttons, this step would not matter as you will be sticking the earring post in the center of the button; but if using larger buttons you will want to stick the earring post closer to the top of the button so that it falls nicely. *Do note that you do not HAVE to cover the area where you cut the shank off of. No one will be focusing on the back of your earring anyways.
3. Apply the glue to the flat surface of the earring post and stick it to the back of the earring either in the center, for small buttons, or at the position you desire for bigger buttons. *Bigger earring post are always better as you'll be able to use more glue to hold the earring together. More more = stronger bond.
4. Allow glue to dry for 24 - 48 hours before wearing.

Voila! You now have beautiful and unique hand-made earrings which are sure to jazz up any outfit!

Enjoy!

These were custom made for a couple of my customers. Visit my FB page here to see the rest of my earrings :- https://www.facebook.com/JazzyFunkyFresh Don't forget to hit the LIKE button!

If you like this post, leave me a comment. If you create your own earrings, send me a pic!