Mesh + Clip-Ins: A Permanent Part With Removable Length
You can get really creative with mesh installs, and one of my favorite creative combinations is mesh plus clip-ins. The lace piece is installed at the part or crown and stays in, giving the client a natural, scalp-like part every day. Clip-ins add length and volume when she wants it, and come out when she does not.
In this guide, I will explain who this combination is for and how to make it work.
PART ONE: Who Mesh + Clip-Ins Is For
- Clients thinning at the part or crown who want coverage every day
- Clients who only want extra length on certain days
- Clients who want a lighter everyday feel
- Clients who want flexibility without a full-head install
PART TWO: How It Works
The lace piece (stays in)
A closure, often a 2x6, 4x4, or 5x5, is sewn onto a micro bead flat base at the part or crown. This covers thinning and gives a natural part every day.
The clip-ins (come and go)
Clip-ins go in below the lace area in about five minutes whenever the client wants length and volume.
"The lace is her everyday confidence. The clip-ins are her going-out hair. She gets both."
PART THREE: Making It Seamless
- Match the clip-ins to the lace hair in shade and texture. Our lace pieces come in multiple shades and textures and can be custom colored.
- Cut the clip-ins to blend with the lace hair and natural hair.
- Teach placement. Show the client where clips go so they never pull on the lace or the bead base.
- Protect the lace. Clip-ins should never be clipped onto the lace itself.
SIDE BY SIDE: Clip-Ins Alone vs Mesh + Clip-Ins
| Factor | Clip-Ins Alone | Mesh + Clip-Ins |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday part | Natural hair only | Lace piece, scalp-like |
| Thinning coverage | Limited | Covered daily |
| Length | When worn | When worn |
| Maintenance | Home care | Lace maintenance plus home care |
What to Expect
| Factor | What It Looks Like |
|---|---|
| Lace wear time | 4 weeks up to 6 months, depending on stylist and maintenance |
| Clip-in time | About 5 minutes to put in |
BOTTOM LINE
Mesh plus clip-ins gives clients a natural, scalp-like part every day and removable length whenever they want it. Match the clip-ins to the lace, teach safe placement, and never clip onto the lace.
Read Clip-In Extensions and What Is a Mesh Install?
Train and Shop With BLONC
Learn it step by step with the Mesh Integration Install Certification at Blonc Academy, and practice with the Mesh Integration Install Training Kit.
Shop lace closures and clip-ins. Stylists, join Blonc Pros.