How to Install Wool Dreadlock Extensions at Home
Got your set and ready to install? Whether this is your first time or you're a seasoned loc wearer, this guide will walk you through everything you need for a smooth, secure, and long-lasting install.
All Girl On The Moon dreadlock extensions are double-ended — meaning both ends of the loc are finished, and the midpoint is where you attach to your natural hair. Here's how to do it right.
What You'll Need
- Your wool dreadlock extensions
- Rat tail comb (for sectioning)
- Hair clips or sectioning clips
- Black elastics (included with every order!)
- A mirror (or a friend!)
Step 1: Prep Your Natural Hair
Start with clean, dry hair. Freshly washed hair gives extensions the best grip and helps prevent buildup at the roots over time.
- Detangle thoroughly before you begin
- Avoid heavy oils or leave-in conditioners right before install — these can make hair slippery and harder to work with
- If your hair is very fine or silky, a light texturizing spray can help the extensions grip better
Step 2: Section Your Hair
How you section your hair will determine the overall look of your install. Take your time here — clean, even sections make for a cleaner, more natural-looking result.
- Size of sections: Match the thickness of your sections to the thickness of your extensions for the most natural look
- Pattern: Brick-lay your sections (offset like bricks) to avoid visible grid lines in your part
- Clip away sections you're not working on to keep things organized
Step 3: Attach Your Extensions
Because all Girl On The Moon extensions are double-ended, installation uses a simple braiding method. There are two braiding patterns to choose from — both are secure and beautiful, just with a slightly different finish.
Method 1: Standard 3-Strand Braid
- Fold the dreadlock in half to find the midpoint
- Place the midpoint at the root of your section and clip one end up and out of the way
- Split your section of natural hair into 2 even pieces — these will act as 2 of the 3 strands in your braid
- Use the loose (unclipped) end of the loc as your third strand and braid all three strands down to the end of your natural hair using a standard 3-strand braid
- Secure the ends with a black elastic (included with your order)
This method creates a classic, natural-looking braid that blends seamlessly with your locs.
Method 2: Side Braid (Tighter Hold)
- Follow steps 1–3 from Method 1
- Instead of a standard over-under braid, braid on its side — stitching the strands underneath rather than over the top
- This creates a tighter, flatter braid that sits closer to the scalp for a more secure hold
- Secure the ends with a black elastic (included with your order)
This method is great if you have finer hair, want extra security, or prefer a sleeker look at the root.
Step 4: Work Your Way Around
Work section by section, from the nape of your neck upward. This ensures each layer of extensions lays naturally over the one below it for the most seamless look.
- Take breaks as needed — a full install can take several hours depending on the size of your set
- Check your tension as you go — extensions should feel secure but never tight or painful at the root
Step 5: Style & Finish
Once all extensions are installed, shake out your locs and style as desired. Wool extensions are incredibly versatile — wear them down, half up, in a bun, or braided.
Aftercare Tips for Long-Lasting Locs
- Sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase to reduce frizz and friction overnight
- Avoid excessive moisture at the roots — wool can absorb water and take time to dry fully
- Re-tighten loose extensions as needed
- With proper care, your wool set can last 6–12+ months
Have questions about your specific set or need install tips tailored to your hair type? We're always happy to help — reach out anytime. 🌙