Crochet dreadlocks are a popular method for locking hair. These dreads are tight and compact, yet soft to the touch. They take much less time to mature than natural dreadlocks, and do not require dread wax. However, it is important to use this technique correctly to avoid overtightening and damaging your hair.
This article will discuss the various techniques that can be used to crochet dreadlocks, and give step-by-step instructions on how to crochet a dreadlock from start to finish. Crocheting hair is a very delicate process, and it can be easily overdone if the user does not know how to work the crochet hook properly. Using the wrong size hook can also cause damage to the hair. This is why it is important to use a special crochet hook designed for dreading, and also to be very patient as the locks form.
First, wash the hair and make sure it is completely dry before you begin working on the dreadlocks. This is because the dreadlocks will not be able to knot together if they are wet. Next, divide the hair into several sections. For most people, four to six sections will be enough, but if you have very thick hair, more than eight may be needed. Make sure to clip any hair that is not part of the dread being worked on so it does not get in the way as you work.
Once you have the appropriate number of sections, it is time to crochet the dreadlocks. To do this, first, pick up the loc extension and place it near the base of one of your dreads. Grasp the loc extension and your own natural hair with your forefinger, middle finger, and thumb. Insert and draw out the crochet hook repeatedly, often stopping and turning the dreadlock to enter from a new angle before continuing to work the hook. Continue this process down the dread until it feels fully locked and secure, but be sure to leave at least 3 inches of hair free at both ends so that you can dread them further.
When you are done with a dreadlock, use your crochet hook to pull out any loose bits of hair that are poking out. This will help to smooth out the dread and make it look more mature. You should also comb the ends of the dread to make them blunt and neat.
Repeat this entire process for each of the dreadlocks you want to crochet, making sure to leave a little bit of hair unlocked at both ends of the dread. Once the dreads are all crocheted, it is normal to let them sit for about three to four months before washing them again. By this time, they should be very dense and will have a mature appearance to them. If you are careful and follow these steps, crochet dreadlocks will be very hardy and last for a long time without becoming damaged.