Yarn braids are box braids or twists made with acrylic yarn instead of synthetic braiding hair. They’re lightweight, come in almost any color and have a soft, matte finish that looks a lot like natural hair. Yarn is also usually cheaper than braiding hair.
Here’s what to know before you try yarn braids, plus 10 yarn braid styles.
Yarn Braids: Pros and Cons
- Pros: lightweight, affordable, huge color range, a natural-looking matte finish, and less slippery than synthetic hair so braids hold well.
- Cons: yarn can trap product and lint, takes longer to dry after washing, and can be drying, so moisturizing your hair is important.
How Yarn Braids Are Done
- Choose a soft 100% acrylic yarn. Avoid wool, which can felt and tangle with your hair.
- Cut lengths of yarn to about twice the length you want your braids.
- Wash, condition and detangle your hair, and apply a leave-in conditioner.
- Section your hair and attach the yarn at the root, either by folding it around the base of the section or using a feed-in method.
- Braid or twist down to the ends and seal the ends with a knot or a dab of glue.
For a full head of mid-back braids, you’ll typically need several skeins of yarn; ask your braider before buying.
Yarn Braid Styles to Try
1. Box Braids with Yarn
Yarn box braids with beads or bright accents give a classic style a modern update.
2. Ombré Yarn Braids
Blend from your natural black at the root into a lighter gray or white yarn past your natural length.
3. Natural-Color Yarn Braids
Choose yarn close to your natural color for a subtle, polished look.
4. Yarn Braid Bob
A bob-length cut is cute, light and easy to manage, and lasts a couple of weeks or more.
5. Colorful Half-Up Bun
Red, yellow, gray and black yarn braids worn half up in a bun, half down.
6. Rainbow Yarn Braids
Go bold with a mix of bright yarn colors. Yarn comes in far more shades than braiding hair.
7. Long Blue Yarn Braids
Long braids in a single bold color, like blue, make a strong statement.
8. Black and White Thin Yarn Braids
Thin braids mixing black and white yarn give a striking salt-and-pepper effect.
9. Pink Yarn Braid Bob
Small pink yarn twists cut into a short bob are playful and fun for summer.
10. Dark Green Yarn Braids in a Bun
Long, deep green braids gathered into a bun look elegant with almost any outfit.
How to Care for Yarn Braids
- Moisturize your scalp and hair regularly with a light spray or oil.
- Wash gently with diluted shampoo and dry thoroughly; yarn holds water longer than braiding hair.
- Sleep in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to reduce lint and frizz.
- Take them out within six to eight weeks.
FAQs
How long do yarn braids last?
Yarn braids usually last about four to eight weeks, depending on the size of the braids and how well you care for them.
Do yarn braids damage your hair?
Not if they’re installed and removed carefully. Yarn can be drying, so keep your hair moisturized, and detangle gently when you take them out to avoid breakage.
Can you do yarn braids without yarn extensions?
No. The yarn is what adds the length and color, so you’ll need it for the style. If you’d rather use braiding hair, try box braids or Senegalese twists.
Final Thoughts
Yarn braids are a fun, affordable protective style with endless color options. For more ideas, see our African braid hairstyles.
