Prep Work: The Secret to Faster Hair Extension Installs
With net wefts, it is really the prep that takes more time. Once the prep is done, installing it on your client's head takes about five to ten minutes per row. That lesson applies to almost every extension method: the fastest stylists are not rushing. They are prepping.
After 21 years behind the chair, here is how I use prep work to keep installs fast without cutting corners.
PART ONE: Why Prep Changes Everything
Every install has work that must happen with the client in the chair, and work that can happen before she arrives. The more you move into prep, the shorter and smoother the appointment.
- Shorter appointments for the client
- More predictable scheduling for you
- Better results, because prep is done calmly, not under pressure
"The install is the reward. The prep is the work. Do the work before she sits down."
PART TWO: What You Can Prep Ahead
Net wefts
Measure, cut, and prepare net wefts to the right width for each row before the appointment. Then the install goes five to ten minutes per row.
Custom color
Color the extension hair before the install. Toning, lowlighting, or adding a root shadow during the appointment adds a lot of chair time.
Clip-ins and halos
Color and pre-shape clip-in sets and halos so all that is left is placing and blending.
Wigs
Pluck the hairline, bleach knots, tint the lace, and pre-style U-part and glueless wigs ahead of time. The install becomes very fast.
Bonds
Pre-sort bonds by color and length, and plan your placement map so you are not deciding strand by strand in the moment.
Beads and supplies
Lay out beads in the right size and color, pliers, clips, and thread before the client arrives.
PART THREE: Building Prep Into Your Business
Schedule prep time
Block prep time on your calendar just like appointments.
Book a consultation first
You cannot prep without knowing the client's color, texture, and plan. The consultation makes the prep possible.
Price your prep
Your prep is skilled work. Build it into your service price even though the client does not see it happen.
Keep inventory on hand
Prepping ahead only works if you have the hair. A wide variety of textures and colors in stock keeps you from waiting on orders.
SIDE BY SIDE: With and Without Prep
| Factor | No Prep | Prepped Ahead |
|---|---|---|
| Appointment length | Longer, unpredictable | Shorter, predictable |
| Client experience | Waiting in the chair | Fast and smooth |
| Results | Rushed decisions | Planned, polished |
| Scheduling | Hard to plan | Easy to plan |
What to Expect When You Start Prepping
| Step | Result |
|---|---|
| Consultation | A clear plan |
| Prep session | Hair colored, cut, and ready |
| Install | A much shorter appointment |
BOTTOM LINE
The secret to faster hair extension installs is prep work. Prepare net wefts, color the hair, customize wigs, sort bonds, and lay out supplies before the client arrives, and price that prep as part of your service.
Read Net Weft Extensions and The Top 5 Fastest Hair Extension Installs.
Train and Shop With BLONC
Learn professional prep at Blonc Academy with the Net Weft Certification, Hair Extension Coloring Certification, and Wig Making Certification. See all certifications.
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