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Detailing essential haircutting techniques with plenty tips from our experts, in this Video Guide of the Best Haircutting Techniques you’ll learn everything from foundational haircuts to complex cutting techniques with over 80 free videos to help you succeed as a stylist.
Whether you're still in school or a seasoned pro, mastering haircut techniques can transform how you shape, texture, and personalize hairstyles for your clients. From the fundamentals of blunt cuts and layering to advanced methods like point cutting and undercutting, each technique helps you hone your craft and gives you the ability to stand out behind the chair.
What You Can Expect to Learn in this Guide:
- Learn the strong foundations of haircutting
- Work through the essential art of layering
- Add finishing touches with fringe or face-framing techniques
To excel, we encourage you to grab a mannequin and work alongside the videos for a hands-on learning experience to really enhance your learning.
Hair Cutting Guide Overview:
1. The Foundations of Hair Cutting
Master the foundations of hair cutting to become better at understanding the what, how and why behind cutting hair.
24 video techniques
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2. Layering Techniques
These layering techniques will set you up for success no matter the hair type or density.
25 video techniques
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3. Face-Framing Techniques
Discover multiple ways to approach face-framing in this video series.
10 video techniques
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4. How to Cut Bangs
There are many ways to cut a fringe, so why not learn them all?
21 video techniques
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5. Shags
A great shag hairstyle consists of choppy ends, layers around the crown, and lots of texture. Watch these videos to help you master the shag haircut.
6 video techniques
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1. The Foundations of Hair Cutting
No matter your level, it is always a great idea to start here. Mastering the Foundations of Haircutting opens up endless creativity and flexibility throughout your hairdressing career. By truly understanding the concepts of Elevation, Over-Direction, Finger Angles etc., you learn how to adapt haircuts to the needs of each salon guest.
Regardless of how creative you get with your haircuts, they are still controlled by the foundational basic principles contained in this portion of our video guide.
1. Elevation: Controlling the Vertical Movement of Hair
2. Over-Direction: Controlling the Horizontal Movement of Hair
3. Finger Angle: Creating Depth Within a Haircut
4. Sectioning: How To Section Hair with Precision and Accuracy
5. Tension: How To Maintain Tension When Cutting Hair
6. Layering Hair: The Difference Between Horizontal and Vertical Layering
7. Haircut Guides: How To Establish a Safety Guide When Layering Hair Above the Ears
8. One-Length Haircut: How To Hold Sections to Create a Consistent Line
9. Precision Haircut: How To Create a Precise Bottom Edge When Cutting Hair
10. Layering Hair: Creating Consistent Weight Balance Within Layers
11. Cross-Checking: The Importance of Cross-Checking Hair & How To Do It
12. Layering Hair Around The Face Without Creating Bulk or Holes
13. How To Create V-Shaped Layers Around the Face for Longer Hair
14. Cutting-in-motion - Shear Entry Angle and Timing/Speed
15. Foundations of Layering Hair - 3 Different Elevations and How They Affect Weight Balance
16. 4 Ways to Add Texture to Blunt Haircuts
17. How To Point Cut Like a Pro
18. How to Create Hairstyles According to Face Shape - Working With Features
19. In Depth Undercut Bob Tutorial
20. Undercut Pixie Haircut Tutorial - Tips for a Better Blend with the Top
21. "The Jana" In-depth Bowl Cut Tutorial
22. 3 Quick Tips for Texturizing Short Hair
23. HOT TIP: Shear and Hand Position
24. 3 Ways To Cut a One Length Bob
1. Elevation: Controlling the Verticle Movement of Hair
Mastering the art of elevation is guaranteed to improve any haircut because it allows you to change the silhouette vertically.
When To Use Elevation:
- It doesn’t matter if you’re in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal section, to create elevation you must move the hair up and down, not side to side.
- Looking to collapse the shape at the bottom and leave weight at the top? Elevation allows you to do that.
- If all of your lengths are sitting at the same point. You’ll have a lot of density at the bottom. To move that density away from the perimeter and build it up and away from the head shape. Start elevating the hair up and away from the head, but remember that once you lift the hair past 90 degrees you’ll allow more length to drop out toward the perimeter and take more length away from the upper surface.
We encourage you to watch the video above to learn more about how elevation can improve your haircuts.
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2. Over-Direction: Controlling the Horizontal Movement of Hair
Over-direction is essential to creating memorable haircuts because it creates weight and length in different directions and gives you more control of the side-to-side or front-to-back aspect of your silhouette.
Three Ways To Over-direct Hair:
- Over-direct the hair forward to create length and density toward the back of the hair.
- Over-direct the hair back to create movement, density and weight in the front.
- Cut the hair at the natural fall to create no movement in either direction.
Three different haircutting guides (stationary, traveling and visual) also deliver different results, from the maximum amount of over-direction to a softer buildup of weight.
Watch the video above to see exactly how it’s done.
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3. Finger Angle: Creating Depth Within a Haircut
Your finger angle influences the outcome of a haircuts by creating depth within the section. Even if you’re using the same elevation and the same over-direction.
How To Use Finger Angles:
- In a vertical section, finger angle affects the silhouette up and down.
- Within a horizontal section, finger angle controls movement away from the face or toward the face.
- If you want fullness toward the perimeter, use a finger angle diagonally away from the head shape. For depth falling toward the back of the head, shift your fingers into a diagonal finger angle where it’s shorter towards the face and longer away from the face.
Watch the video to be on your way to creating intricate shapes and adapting your haircuts to any client who walks through the door.
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4. Sectioning: How To Section Hair with Precision and Accuracy
To increase precision and accuracy when sectioning, practice is key. To become skilled at creating clean partings, practice these 3 tips until they become second nature.
How To Increase Precision When Sectioning:
- Connect your fingers: Our long cutting comb has a parting tooth at the top. Place your pointer finger at the tip of the parting tooth, take your other finger and place it where you want to go and connect the two points.
- Comb the hair in the direction you want to part: this way you're not fighting the grain.
- Use both hands for really long partings: Put both fingers on the parting tooth and rest your palms against the head for support to create clean, clear lines. Watch the video to see how it’s done.
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5. Tension: How To Maintain Tension When Cutting Hair
To achieve more precise results on your next haircut, maintaining even tension is key.
How To Create Even Tension:
- Ensure tension is even from top to bottom. Cutting past the first knuckle can be problematic, so avoid it if you can.
- Be mindful of rolling the section. Sometimes we roll a section to see if better or to get into a different cutting postion but this can also increase elevation even if you don't mean to. So be sure to keep a flat surface.
Remember that a loss of tension or uneven tension can complicate your haircuts so watch the video to learn more.
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6. Layering Hair: The Difference Between Horizontal and Vertical Layering
Rethinking your approach to haircutting can make the difference between a good haircut and a great haircut. Understanding when to use vertical layering and when to use horizontal layering is a great example. The difference is how the weight is distributed and how visual the cutting line is.
Tips for Horizontal Layering:
- For a softer edge and less weight, take a vertical section, elevate the hair to 90 degrees and cut straight across.
- For more texture, use your shears to create deep peaks and valleys that will soften as they fall.
- For more weight at the perimeter to increase visual impact, switch to a horizontal layering pattern. Use the same elevation and same over-direction but in a horizontal section.
Watch the video for tips you can start using today.
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7. Haircut Guides: How To Establish a Safety Guide When Layering Hair Above the Ears
To avoid creating the dreaded hole above the ears, you've got to understand where to start your guide for layers. The trick is to find a safe point to start your layers, and we’ve got a tip that works every time.
How To Avoid A Hole Above The Ears:
- Start at the top of the ear. The area of the hairline that has to travel the farthest to touch the perimeter is that little piece at the high point of the ear.
- Never go shorter than that piece of hair. This ensures you’ll avoid the dreaded hole above the ear.
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8. One-Length Haircut: How To Hold Sections to Create a Consistent Line
Creating a consistent line on both sides of any one-length haircut is always a challenge, but we’ve got some solutions.
How To Create A Consistent Line:
- Your fingers they tend to create a slightly diagonal line when you use them as your guide. Instead, to create a truly straight line, use your comb to guide the bottom of your fingers to create a horizontal line.
- Your elbow can also drag the line down and throw off the ability to create a truly horizontal line. Instead, use your comb to help create the perfect line.
Watch the video to see exactly how to create a consistent line each and every time.
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9. Precision Haircut: How To Create a Precise Bottom Edge When Cutting Hair
To create a precise bottom edge, it's all in the details. Cutting hair as close to the natural fall as possible will eliminate some of the inconsistencies, especially later when your client is styling their hair. When you use your fingers to control the shape, be careful not to lift the hair up and away, which introduces elevation.
How To Create A Precise Bottom Edge:
- The best advice is to keep your hands out of the hair if possible. Use a comb instead to put less tension and stress on the hair, which makes it easier to keep the hair in its true natural fall position.
- Another tip is to bring the shears in and cut at the bottom edge of the guideline rather than on top to make sure the next section that comes down isn’t above your previously cut section.
Watch the video to learn more.
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10. Layering Hair: Creating Consistent Weight Balance Within Layers
A common problem with layered haircuts is inconsistency within the weight balance. To improve this, examine the element of elevation to control the shape of the layer.
How To Create Consistent Weight When Layering:
- Take smaller sections. Sections that are too large can create inconsistency. Sub-section large sections into two smaller pieces makes it easier to control elevation.
- Examine your body position. Remember that your elbow-down side will be your heavy side and your elbow-up side will be your lighter side.
Watch the video to see how maintaining proper elevation can make all the difference.
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11. Cross-Checking: The Importance of Cross-Checking Hair & How To Do It
Cross-checking is one of those fundamentals from beauty school that can save you time and improve your results. Even if you’re in a hurry, don’t skip this important step because it keeps you from getting ahead of yourself and finding out too late that you’ve started to make mistakes within the haircut.
How To Cross Check:
- Clean sections. Take nice clean sections and elevate the hair back to the position you cut it in before looking for problems.
- Find Balance. Work with a sense of purpose and look for balance within the line in both vertical and horizontal sections.
Watch this video to discover how cross-checking affects the outcome of your haircuts.
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12. Layering Hair Around The Face Without Creating Bulk or Holes
The hair around the face frame is usually finer and thinner because of the recession area. Due to this, you've got to take extra care when creating layers here.
How To Layer Around The Face:
- One way is to detach the hair that sits right over the top of that recession area from the length of your layering.
- The other option is to use your Professional Blending Shear, which lets you gently reduce the weight of the hair that sits in front of the weak area of the recession without overdoing it.
Watch the video and see how it’s done.
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13. How To Create V-Shaped Layers Around the Face for Longer Hair
To create face-framing layers on longer hair you've got to pay attention to length and blending to ensure a smooth transition.
How To Add Face-Framing Layers:
- Start at the high point of the head and connect to the point where the hair becomes weak behind the ear. Repeat this on the opposite side.
- Part off the upper surface of the head and grab your Professional 7” Dry Cutting Shear. Over-direct everything forward with 90-degree elevation. Determine where you want your shortest point to fall and cut a V-shape into that section.
- Bring the sides down, maintaining 90-degree elevation and over-directing straight forward. Connect the longest point of your V-shape on the top out to the lengths on the perimeter.
Watch the video and master this relatively simple technique.
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14. Cutting-in-Motion - Shear Entry Angle and Timing/Speed
When cutting-in-motion, it’s important to consider your shear entry angle to create the end results you want. A nearly-parallel shear angle will result in soft, subtle layers, while a more pronounced shear angle will remove more hair for a bolder look. These haircut techniques allow you to quickly remove bulk and add movement to the hair.
Cutting-in-motion techniques:
- Slide cutting
- Slicing
- Channel cutting
- Slithering
- Pinching
Other Factors to Improve Cutting-In-Motion:
- Timing is critical for creating a great forward motion haircut. The speed at which the shear moves through the hair and the speed at which the shear closes both affect the final result. Closing the shear too slowly or too quickly (relative to your cutting speed) can shred the cuticle and create straw-like ends. The Sam Villa Artist Series 6” Slide Cutting Shear makes motion cutting easier by pushing hair out as the blades close, creating beautiful soft edges that blend seamlessly.
- Cutting-in-motion is a must-know haircut technique for many of today’s top trending styles. With practice, you can learn to motion cut with confidence and control. When you choose the right angle and master the rhythm of gliding and closing your shears, you open up a whole new world of creative possibilities.
Watch this video to upgrade your motion cutting skills!
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15. Foundations of Layering Hair - 3 Different Elevations and How They Effect Weight Balance
To create better layered haircuts, start with understanding the foundations of layering hair, such as levels of elevation and weight balance. Many of us tend to stick to one preferred type of elevation, but having a variety to choose from helps you design the perfect hairstyle for each individual client.
3 Different Elevations When Layering:
- First is a classic high elevation, also called 90 degrees vertical, which involves elevating a section straight up towards the ceiling. To achieve this, lift the hair up and cut a blunt line that is parallel to the floor. This basic elevation technique delivers beautiful blended layers that have less weight on top and more density at the perimeter. Guests who want soft, subtle texture will love this look!
- For balanced layers and a round shape that follows the head, elevate the hair at 90 degrees to the head shape. Using a longer shear (we recommend the Sam Villa 6.25” Streamline Series Shear for layering), cut the section parallel to the head. Continue to adjust the elevation to maintain a 90 degree angle as you work down the hair from top to bottom, following the natural curve of the head.
Watch the video to discover the third elevation (hint: it’s perfect for keeping weight in the upper layers). Once you add these three elevations to your hair design toolkit, you’ll know exactly what to reach for to create gorgeous short and long layered haircuts!
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16. 4 Ways to Add Texture to Blunt Haircuts
Highly textured, layered hairstyles are continually trending. Here, we're teaching you how to add texture to a blunt haircut. No matter which technique you choose, being intentional about the entry angle of your shear relative to the grain of the hair is key to creating beautiful textured blunt cuts. The tool and technique you choose should depend on your desired result as well as your guest’s hair type.
How To Add Texture To A Blunt Cut:
- Point cutting is a great way to create a blunt cut with textured ends. For subtle texture, align your shear angle with the grain of the hair. Cutting against the hair grain will create bold, chunky ends.
- You can also point cut into the hair with the Sam Villa Signature Series Invisiblend Shear. The weight removal is super-delicate so you never need to worry about removing too much hair. This technique is perfect for creating soft, light texture.
- If your goal is to remove bulk without creating textured ends, consider slide cutting. Working from the interior of the hair allows you to control where you want to take out weight. Align your Sam Villa Artist Series 6” Slide Cutting Shear with the grain of the hair for natural texture (or place the blades at an angle for more visual interest), point the blades down towards the floor, and slide down small pieces of hair from mid-shafts to ends.
Watch the video to discover the fourth texturizing technique to remove weight without creating any visible lines or changing the perimeter.
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17. How To Point Cut Like a Pro
Point cutting is a wonderful technique for adding softness to haircuts, but it can cause injury to your hands and fingers when done incorrectly. Luckily, with the proper technique you can create beautiful texture without hurting yourself.
Tips for Point Cutting:
- To preventing cuts when point cutting, pull the shears away from your hand as you close them. When you point cut, open the shears, touch your hand gently, and close them on the way out. Practice this rhythm (“Open, touch, close on the way out”) at home, working slowly until you build confidence and muscle memory.
- When point cutting hair, consider the depth of the cut and the shear angle. A longer shear like the Sam Villa Signature Series 7” Dry Cutting Shear allows you to point cut deep into the hair. To add soft edges to a fringe or perimeter, point cut only the ends of the hair.
- The angle of the shear in relation to the hair determines the type of texture that you create with your point cut. If the shear is roughly parallel to the grain of the hair, it will remove less hair and give you a soft, wispy finish. For more visual texture, place the shear at a diagonal angle to the grain of the hair.
With practice, you’ll learn to play with depth and cutting angle to achieve the exact results you want. Watch the video to learn how to point cut hair safely and effectively!
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18. How to Create Hairstyles According to Face Shape - Working With Features
While it might be tempting to label her face shape as round, square, diamond, and so forth, there is actually a better and more customized way to design face-flattering haircuts.
Tips For Cutting According to Face Shape:
- Instead of following the “face shape rules”, try zooming out to consider the overall dimensions and lines of the haircut. A great hairstyle should balance the overall face shape, accentuate your guest’s favorite facial features, and de-emphasize less preferred features.
- If your guest wants to highlight her eyes, cheekbones or jawline, plan out bangs or layers that point to those features.
- For a wider face or round cheeks, think long vertical lines and sweeping layers that draw the eye down and away from the roundest part of the face. Solid horizontal lines (such as blunt bangs) draw the eye from side to side, giving the face a more “square” appearance.
- It takes time to master the lines and dimensions of different haircuts, so practice these skills on your Lydia Mannequin Head before you try them out on guests! No matter what hairstyle you design, remember that personality trumps face shape every time. It’s okay to give your guest a hairstyle that fits her personality and confidence, even if it’s not the “perfect” face-flattering cut.
Thinking outside the box empowers you to add value behind the chair by giving your guest a beautiful custom haircut. Watch the video to discover how to create the best hairstyles for your client’s face shape.
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19. In Depth Undercut Bob Tutorial
An undercut bob is a great technique for clients with thick or dense hair who want a bob. This allows you take take weight and volume out without impacting the weight line.
Tips Featured In This Video:
- This in depth undercut bob tutorial takes you from initial sectioning to wet cutting, blow drying, flat ironing and even into the detailing and texturizing of a bob that falls beautifully on almost any head of hair!
Watch the video to see every detail of this classic haircut. Grab a mannequin and cut along.
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20. Undercut Pixie Haircut Tutorial - Tips for a Better Blend with the Top
Similar to the undercut bob, an undercut pixie is a great way to remove weight and enhance the weight lines of a haircut.
Blending Techniques For A Pixie Cut:
- To avoid too strong of a disconnection of a mohawk kind of effect there are various blending techniques discussed in this video that deliver a polished finish.
- Work with various techniques like dry cutting and learn how to use tools like blending shears or dry cutting shears to improve your cut.
- Plus, you'll learn how to set up the underneath to create a better flow with the top section
Discover a unique approach on how to set up the underneath to create a better flow with the top section.
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21. "The Jana" In-depth Bowl Cut Tutorial
A modern take on a classic, this bowl cut is a bold way to make a big statement.
The Bowl Cut - What You'll Learn:
- This in-depth haircutting tutorial walks step-by-step from sectioning breakdown to the foundational cut, through the blow-dry and refinement of this precise bowl cut, The Janna.
- Explore the joy of sectioning and haircutting with a swivel shear to create this edgy shape with a modern approach.
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22. 3 Quick Tips for Texturizing Short Hair
Every cut really counts with short hair, which is why it's so important to have a plan when texturizing this length hair. Extra factors should also be taken into account for thin or fine hair. For this reason, this video takes you through 3 quick tips on texturizing short hair.
A Few Things You'll Learn In This Video:
- Where to adjust density, based on thick or thin areas to help balance the cut.
- Cutting density with contrast to adjust thinness or wispiness.
- Using a variety of tools like texturizing shears to enhance the finished look with plenty of movement and without harsh lines or holes.
Watch the video to learn more about texturizing techniques for short hair.
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23. HOT TIP: Shear and Hand Position
Comfort begins with the shear in your hand. Sam teaches the correct relationship of the shear to your hand position.
What You'll Learn:
- Adjusting your hand position to alleviate discomfort when cutting, focusing on ergonomically correct posture
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24. 3 Ways To Cut a One Length Bob
The bob is one of the most iconic cuts that continues to stand the test of time. While it takes on new iterations every season, learning the basics of what you need to create the cut can help you build from there to customize a look your client will love.
A Few Things You'll Learn In This Video:
- Detailing the top 3 ways to cut a one length bob, you'll learn how to perfect the perimeter.
- It will also discuss the difference how to hold the hair against the skin. Detailing one or two fingers of the palm to hold sections of hair.
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2. Layering Techniques
Without a doubt, the most common technique we apply in commercial haircuts is layering. From short and highly textured to long and flowing, layers bring life and movement to your designs. But, we can easily get stuck in a rut of doing the same layering patterns over and over again.
Within this section of our haircut guide, you will learn how to have better control over layers and discover creative options and solutions to common challenges faced behind the chair.
1. How To Cut Layers In Stick-Straight Hair
2. How To Create Visual Interest & Dimension In Long Hair
3. Creating Layers in the Crown with a Twist Cutting Technique
4. Ombre Layering Technique: A Layering Technique for Longer Hair
5. The Easiest Way To Cut Long Layers Throughout The Hair
6. How To Add Layers Without Compromising the Perimeter
7. How To Create Volume in the Crown: Cutting Soft Layers in Longer Hair
8. How To Cut Layers Without Making Them Look Choppy
9. How To Cut Even Layers When You Wear a Deep Side Part or Side Sweeping Fringe
10. How To Keep Layers Balanced
11. How To Create Shorter Layers with Movement in the Crown Using a Diamond Section
12. Disconnected Layers: Remove Bulk, Keep Length and Speed Up Blow Drying Time
13. How To Add Volume in the Crown Without Any Visible Layering
14. How To Cut Layers Into Dry or Coarse Hair
15. Using Triangle Sections to Layer Hair and Create Hidden Volume
16. How to Create Internal Graduation on a Blunt Bob to Collapse the Perimeter
17. How to Create Seamless Layers on a One Length Bob
18. How to Create Invisible Layers or Internal Layers
19. How to Create Invisible Layers - Zigzag Underlayering
20. How to Create Volume and Movement in Fine Hair
21. Two Ways to Fix Choppy Layers
22. How to Cut Beautiful Layers on a Classic Bob
23. Adding Face Framing Layers to Fine Hair to Accentuate Features
24. How to Cut a French Bob
25. A Unique Approach to the Classic Graduated Bob
1. How To Cut Layers In Stick-Straight Hair
If your client has stick straight hair, every cut really counts. Lines are more noticable and working movement into their style can be a challeng. To enhance stick-straight hair, layers are essential. And to create flawless layers, fanning and point-cutting are a must.
How To Enhance Stick Straight Hair:
- To begin, pick up a section, overlap your fingers, fan the section, and come in and chunk out your layers.
- Once you create the desired degree of chunkiness, readjust and go deep into the section.
- Remember to keep your blade parallel with the hair shaft and allow the fan to move while the shear continues to open.
Watch the video to learn how to master the technique.
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2. How To Create Visual Interest & Dimension In Long Hair
When cutting clients with long and thick hair, you can face challenges when it comes to adding dimension while keeping lengths feeling full. Taking you through the best tips, this video takes you through exactly how to add interest and dimension in hair cuts.
How To Add Interest & Dimension within a Haircut:
- The key is to take vertical, pie-shaped sections on the upper surface to create a detached overcut.
- Put the wide part of your pie-shape on top so you don’t take density out of the perimeter.
- Cut a strong inverted line from short to long using the Professional 7” Dry Cutting Shear, which is designed to trap that heavier, thicker hair as you work.
Watch the video to learn how to add fresh new dimension to long hair and win kudos from your clients.
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3. Creating Layers in the Crown with a Twist Cutting Technique
Twist cutting is a unique technique that allows you to create layers and texture through the crown area.
How To Practice Twist Cutting:
- Take a section and twist it around the outside of its natural position to increase elevation and over-direction on the outsides of that section.
- After sectioning the hair to create a diamond shape that encompasses the whole crown area, elevate the hair diagonally right off the crown, over-directing everything into the center of the section.
- Once you’ve established the twist, remove the length by cutting on a diagonal finger angle. Elevation, over-directing and twisting creates a blunt line that falls soft and loose, adding nice texture through the crown.
Watch the video to master the technique for yourself.
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4. Ombre Layering Technique: A Layering Technique for Longer Hair
With longer hair, you can get creative with how you add movement and texture. But it's imperative that you don't create disconnection. This is exactly where ombre layers come in. The name is taken from the ever-popular haircolor technique that focuses on a soft blend.
How To Create Ombre Layers:
- With Ombre Layers you’ll use your shears to “paint” the hair on the outside of triangular sections to create diffusion and an element of softness. Think of it as creating density at the base that leads into lightness on the ends.
- This technique was made for clients with solid, one-length hair that’s crying out for movement and volume. For a very soft removal of weight, try the Professional Blending Shear.
Watch the video and impress your next client with this groundbreaking technique.
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5. The Easiest Way To Cut Long Layers Throughout The Hair
Long layers are a key element of haircuts of any length. With the abilty to create movement without sacrificing length or volume, they can be used on a variety of clients.
How To Cut Long Layers:
- Take a diagonal forward section and start in the front because that will be the shortest area.
- Continue to take parallel sections, bringing everything up to that same guideline so you over-direct and elevate to the same point each time.
- Divide the back down the center, go in and lift the last length up so everything comes forward to the stationary guide.
Watch the video to see exactly how it’s done.
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6. How To Add Layers Without Compromising the Perimeter
This technique is made for the client who wants layers but also wants to keep her length so she has the option of wearing a ponytail. You’ll always have more hair in the back, so what you need to do is protect the front.
How To Cut Layers Without Compromising the Perimeter:
- To maintain the length, use your comb to take zigzag sections in the back and leave the perimeter weight there.
- If you want more of a tapered layer, soften vertically with your shears.
It’s your choice creatively. Take a look at the video to see exactly how it’s done.
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7. How To Create Volume in the Crown: Cutting Soft Layers in Longer Hair
When cutting soft layers in longer hair, a degree of importance should be placed on the crown. This area can usually get weighed down and impact the finished style. With a few targeted techniques, adding movement to this area is easy.
How To Create Volume in The Crown with Soft Layers
- With this technique you'll see a degree of shortness in the crown area to add movement. Using a diamond is the best way to create variations in weight, especially over the ear.
- Four triangles in the crown create the diamond. With this, elevation is taken across the top of the head parallel to the floor on the opposite side. Finger angle is parallel to the base of the triangle. Once you cut the first triangle, the guideline comes to the center.
- By working with triangles, you’re not getting a massive degree of shortness in the crown.
Watch the video, then try it yourself.
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8. How To Cut Layers Without Making Them Look Choppy
Depending on hair type, color and styling method, layers can easily look choppy, especially when they aren't blended properly. To ensure you can creating layers that don’t look choppy, brush up on your point-cutting techniques.
How To Point-Cut Layers:
- To create layers without a choppy finish, the angle of your professional shears is key. The trick is to stay parallel with the grain of the hair to reduce weight. If you go in at an angle, you release length but end up with a choppy edge.
- Instead, lift the section up and with your thumb behind your index finger, create a fan of hair before point-cutting.
Watch the video for more detailed instructions.
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9. How To Cut Even Layers When You Wear a Deep Side Part or Side Sweeping Fringe
While parting is always discussed during a consultation, sometimes a client may want to switch up their parting when styling. If you have clients who find one side is longer than the other when they wear a side part, this will help improve your layers.
Layering For Deep Parts or Side Fringe:
- Start by isolating a section in the front and use a zigzag parting on the next section. Zigzag sectioning is great for creating a nice diffused edge with integrity.
- Square the layers off and show the client that you’re cutting the layers even on both sides.
- Use a blending shear to soften the sections because these clients want the hair to move. The moment you take a side part that goes back to the crown, the shape of the head creates the illusion of uneven layers.
Watch the video and learn how to have this conversation.
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10. How To Keep Layers Balanced
Keeping layers balanced, especially on thicker hair, is a challenge, and you’ve got a few choices if you’re working off a side part.
How To Keep Layers Balanced:
- You can allow a shorter layer to sit on your heavy side, or you can detach longer on one side so when the layers fall they fall to an even point. There are pros and cons to each technique.
- If you go from a side part and detach it on thicker hair, a lot more weight will be sitting on one side. However, if you cut all your layers balanced across the top, one layer will fall higher and one will fall lower.
Watch the video to see how each decision creates a different outcome.
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11. How To Create Shorter Layers with Movement in the Crown Using a Diamond Section
Sectioning can play a large role when it comes to enhancing any haircut. To create a square shape on top, a diamond section is ideal. Here's why.
How To Use a Diamond Section At The Crown:
- The first step is to section the hair in the crown area and number your diamond so the left front is #1, the right front is #2, the right back is #3 and the left back is #4. You’ll be distributing weight and length in the corners of the diamond so you’ll see a degree of shortness on top.
- The best way to cut this section is to go past the round of the head and cut on a diagonal line. Come back through with your blending shear but with the blunt side down to create a more diffused edge on top.
Watch the video for step-by-step instructions.
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12. Disconnected Layers: Remove Bulk, Keep Length and Speed Up Blow Drying Time
Whether you want to reducing blow-dry time or enhancing movement in a haircut, disconnected layers are the ideal technique. One reason to create disconnected layers is to release weight without sacrificing length. This is done in the hair near the nape.
How To Create Disconnected Layers:
- To create this technique, create an under layer, not an undercut.
- Start by slicing out a zigzag section above the ear and isolating that section.
- Then, using a professional 7” dry cutting shear, cut on a horizontal line to remove weight in back.
Watch the video for detailed instructions about removing bulk while keeping length.
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13. How To Add Volume in the Crown Without Any Visible Layering
When it comes to adding volume at the crown without sacrificing length, diamond-shaped sections are key. They allow the hair to tilt or move away from the face, creating a sense of volume without over-layering everything.
Tips for Adding Volume At The Crown with a Diamond Section:
- The size of the diamond is based on the density of the hair.
- The thicker the hair, the bigger the diamond.
- For best results, elevate each section and go through and chunk it out. Then come back in with our professional invisiblend shear and see how frothy the top crown will be.
Watch the video to learn this technique.
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14. How To Cut Layers Into Dry or Coarse Hair
In addition to texture patterns, the natural texture of the hair can also influence the way you cut. When creating layers on hair that's very dry, you've got to be mindful of a variety of factors.
Cutting Layers on Dry or Coarse Hair:
- When working on hair that’s very dry, you can usually see all the lines after you blow-dry the hair.
- The solution is to cut with horizontal zigzag sections to get the grain of the hair working for you.
- Cutting blunt, hard lines into dry or coarse hair only makes things worse. Instead, fan and point-cut deep into each section using a professional 7” dry cutting shear.
Watch the video to learn how to turn a problem into a solution.
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15. Using Triangle Sections to Layer Hair and Create Hidden Volume
Utilizing different sectioning techniques when layering hair is a great way to enhance volume.
Triangle Sections To Enhance Layering:
- Making triangles of large zigzag sections is better than horseshoes when creating texture that has length and movement.
- You decide the length of each triangle section and point-cut into it.
- Stand on the narrow side or the wide side of the triangle depending on how much weight you want to leave.
- To release more density, stay on the wide side of the triangle.
Watch the video and take a step out of your comfort zone by using the triangle concept instead of taking simple horizontal sections across your horseshoe section. You’re going to love it.
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16. How to Create Internal Graduation on a Blunt Bob to Collapse the Perimeter
To create a graduated bob haircut with a sleek, tucked shape and no visible layers on the top surface, you need to place graduation on the inside of the hairstyle with texturizing. This gives the appearance of a blunt bob with no “short pieces sticking out” but creates a leaner shape that gives a sense of volume.
Internal Graduation on a Blunt Bob
- A graduated bob is a beautiful shape that that hugs the head shape and gives the illusion of natural volume.
- Starting at the center back of the head, take a vertical section of hair and elevate it to 45 degrees, pointing your fingers down towards the nape of the neck. This graduated cutting line helps to remove bulk from the perimeter and maintain some weight in the middle for a beautiful beveled shape.
- Use your Sam Villa Streamline Series 6.75” Shear to point cut into the elevated section, staying nearly parallel to the grain of the hair. When you finish point-cutting this section, clip it out of the way and repeat with the rest of the hair (leaving out face-framing sections in the front). Make sure to keep the shears parallel to the hair to avoid adding visible texture to the perimeter.
Watch the video to master this internal graduation technique!
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17. How to Create Seamless Layers on a One Length Bob
A one length bob haircut adds tons of fullness and natural movement. To enhance volume and movement to a one-length haircut, a invisible layering technique is essential. You can get the look by creating a detached diamond-shaped section on top of the head, which allows you to cut seamless layers for lots of volume at the crown, without taking away length.
How To Create Layers on a One-Length Bob:
- Start by creating a center part in dry hair, then sectioning the hair behind the ears on each side.
- To create your diamond section, rock the comb along the part behind the ear. The place where the comb comes off the head will form one point of your diamond. Repeat at the front of the head by rocking the flat side of the comb along the center part. Use your comb to connect these two points and isolate the hair with a Dry Sectioning Clip. Repeat on the other side of the head.
- Then place the flat side of your comb on the crown of the head and find the point where it lifts off the head. Connect this point to the points on each side and isolate the hair on top with a clip. It’s important to let the head shape determine the diamond section, rather than simply drawing a diamond with your comb.
- For a diffused edge, use your comb to “zigzag” the front edges of the diamond section. Isolate the hair underneath the section with clips, then separate the diamond section into two triangles along the center part. Elevate one triangle vertically, with your fingers pointing toward the front of the head, and cut the hair shorter in the front and longer towards the back.
- This graduation creates lots of movement in the bob haircut. The Sam Villa Signature Series Dry Cutting Shear is perfect for this technique, as the long blades allow you to point cut deep into the hair. Repeat on the other side of the diamond section.
Watch the video to add this dry cut technique to your styling arsenal.
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18. How to Create Invisible Layers or Internal Layers
In this video you’ll learn how to cut “ghost” layers or invisible layers in thick, medium or fine hair. An ideal technique that adds fullness, movement, and body to a haircut without creating visible layers.
How To Create Invisible Layers
- To create a reverse layered haircut, section off dry hair behind the ears at the place where the hair density changes.
- Isolate the front sections of hair on each side with Dry Sectioning Clips. Create a horizontal section of hair at the nape of the neck, and isolate the hair on top with another clip.
- Working with vertical 1” pieces, “blouse” the hair to discover its natural bend. Elevate the hair at a 90 degree angle (parallel to the floor) and use your Sam Villa Artist Series 6" Slide Cutting Shears to cut the hair from short to long, beginning at the natural bend point.
- Apply light tension and “talk” the shear through each section as you cut. The slide cutting shear slips gently through the hair for a soft, diffused finish.
- Cut from the bottom up to add fullness to fine hair, or from the top down to debulk thick, heavy hair.
- Continue layering the entire back section, working up the head in horizontal subsections. (Be mindful of hair growth patterns at the crown to avoid creating a cowlick.)
- Then, isolate the back section of hair with a clip and repeat this process with the front sections on each side. Take out the clips, comb and tousle the hair, finish with Redken Shine Flash and you’re done!
Watch the video to learn how to create invisible layered haircuts in all hair types!
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19. How to Create Invisible Layers - Zigzag Underlayering
To add a silhouette to long, thick hair while maintaining the length your guests, this creative technique to de-bulk heavy hair with invisible or “ghost” layers.
How To Create Invisible Layers with Zigzag Partings:
- To create this reverse layered haircut, prep wet hair with Redken One United and section off the hair in front of the ears on each side.
- Create a horizontal section at the crown of the head. To ensure the hair on top is thick enough to conceal the invisible layers underneath, check to see if your comb is visible under this section. If you can clearly see the comb through the hair, add additional hair.
- Creating a zigzag parting is the key to achieving invisible layers with no hard lines. Holding the crown section in one hand, use your comb to lift a small piece of hair from the lower section and add it to the crown section. Then pick up a piece of hair from the crown section and bring it down to the lower section.
- Alternate between the upper and lower sections as you move across the head. It’s important to work with purpose and intention as you plan the zigzag. Because the hair in the crown section will not be cut, consider adding larger sections of hair from low-density areas to the upper section. Long, vertical zigzags will result in a softer, more diffuse boundary.
- Once you have created a horizontal zigzag part across the head, clip the top section of hair out of the way. Pick up a guide from the “peak” of a zigzag, cut the guide, and separate a small vertical subsection of hair. Elevate the hair up against the head and cut it to the length of the guide. Repeat with the next zigzag, matching the new guide to the length of the first one. This helps ensure even layers if your zigzags aren’t perfectly balanced.
- Continue this process as you work your way around the head.
- Before you take out the clips, blow dry the lower section to make sure you have the shape you want. The volume should collapse against the nape of the neck, allowing the hair on top to hug the head shape.
Watch the video to learn how to cut zigzag ghost layers in long, thick hair.
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20. How to Create Volume and Movement in Fine Hair
Blending makes fine hair even finer, so it’s tricky to create layered haircuts for thin hair without losing the perimeter. If you're looking to Add movement and volume to fine hair, start with this video.
How To Create Volume & Movement in Fine Hair
- Begin with dry hair and a middle part. Place the spine of your comb on the part and rock it back and forth near the hairline. Note the spot where the comb comes off at the hairline, place a finger there, and use your comb to draw an “umbrella” line down towards the back of the head. Make sure there is enough density below the line-- this will support the layers you create!
- Comb over your line with the wide teeth of your comb, then place the teeth against the head and “zigzag” the comb up and down. Slice your finger through the hair where the section was parted, and lift up the top section. Repeat on the other side of the head (adding another zigzag in the back if needed) and isolate this top section with clips. Bring the rest of the hair around to the back and clip it in a low ponytail at the nape of the neck.
- Now unclip the top section and pick up a small vertical subsection next to the center part. Elevate the hair vertically so that the hair is at a 90 degree angle to the head and your fingers are parallel to the head shape. Point cut into the hair with your Sam Villa Signature Series Dry Cutting Swivel Shear at a diagonal to the hair’s grain. Using the cut section as a guide and following the curve of the head, continue working through the crown in vertical subsections.
- When the entire top section has been layered, comb through all the hair and elevate it vertically. Hold the hair at mid-shaft in one hand and point cut into the entire section to clean up any extra-long pieces. Then take out the clips, comb through the hair, and use the Sam Villa Signature Series Invisiblend Shear to blend out any visible lines on the hair’s surface.
Watch the video for more tips on creating volume in fine hair, including why you should do a dry cut for this hair type and how to get the best results blending while preserving the perimeter. Your fine-haired guests will love this!
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21. Two Ways to Fix Choppy Layers
Depending on hair type and texture, when cutting layers they can end up looking heavy, blocky or shelfy - these are also categorized as choppy layers. With the right techniques it is possible to fix choppy layers and readjust the weight in your haircut.
How To Fix Choppy Layers:
- Start by isolating the “problem area” where the choppy layer sits in the hair. Once you separate this vertical section, elevate the hair up to about 45 degrees. The elevation will help you visualize where the extra weight lives. Fan out the ends of the section and point cut some of the weight out with the Sam Villa Signature Series Dry Cutting Swivel Shear.
- Now, drop the section back down and reassess. If a choppy layer is still visible, elevate the section a little higher, to about 60 degrees. This will reveal a blocky or heavy corner if one is present. Again, fan out the section and point cut the ends, then drop the section back into place.
- Repeat this process as needed until the layer blends well with the surrounding hair. Then elevate the hair straight up to 90 degrees and point cut into the ends to remove any corner that remains. Drop the section back down, comb through the hair, and make sure the final shape is just right!
- But what if you need to remove weight without changing the silhouette and making the upper layers too short? With the right tool, it can be done! Once you separate and elevate the problem section, remove weight from the interior with your Sam Villa Signature Series Invisiblend Shear.
- Drop the section into place and reassess the weight balance. If needed, elevate the section a bit higher and use the Invisiblend to selectively de-bulk the layer. (You may need to drop the surface-level piece of hair to avoid creating wispy ends.)
No matter which technique you choose, a slow and methodical approach helps you avoid removing too much hair. Watch the video to learn how to fix long or short choppy layers!
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22. How to Cut Beautiful Layers on a Classic Bob
It is possible to add layers to a classic bob haircut without losing the solid bob shape. A great way to approach this challenge is to dry cut a detached section on the crown of the head. Dry cutting is a great technique for strong shapes because it allows you to see the visual edge as you work.
Layering Techniques for Bobs:
- To create this short layered bob, separate a horseshoe-shaped section all the way around the crown of the head. Secure the hair underneath this section with Sam Villa Dry Sectioning Clips.
- Starting at the center back of the head, pick up a small piece of hair from the bottom of the U-shaped section to use as a guide. Elevate a vertical subsection of hair to the shape of the head and cut it to the length of the guide with your Sam Villa 6.25” Streamline Series Shears. Soften the edges by fanning out the hair and point cutting into the subsection.
- Continue this process as you work around the head shape in vertical subsections. Use the cut layers as a guide and make sure to comb each new section on both sides as you elevate it up to the shape of the head.
- Once you reach the front side area, begin to over-direct the hair back towards the high point of the head. This allows you to maintain more weight and length in the front of the bob. Then take out the clips, brush through the hair, and you’re done!
The result is a soft layered bob cut with a solid perimeter. Watch the video to learn how to create a beautiful bob haircut with layers.
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23. Adding Face Framing Layers to Fine Hair to Accentuate Features
This framing technique is perfect for the client who has a naturally fine hairline and/or for the client who is experiencing thinning around the hairline. It's also great for the client who comes in for a cut that was over layered or over texturized from the last cut.
Face Framing Haircut Techniques for Fine Hair:
- Be deliberate with the pieces you choose to cut. They will add needed definition to the frame and make the hair look denser.
- Working on dry hair is best and stay away from elevation, which creates a wispy finish.
- This technique aims to strengthen the ends and create more defined pieces and a fuller finish.
- Pinch small sections with fingers and utilize slide cutting techniques from behind moving forward, to encourage the hair to fall forward.
Watch the video to see the complete tutorial!
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24. How to Cut a French Bob
The French bob is a classic cut that has been updated over the years for a versatile finish.
Cutting The French Bob:
- This classic haircut receives a fresh approach and a dose of texture and movement.
- Similar to a gradual bob, the French bob utilizes a variety of sectioning techniques and a mix of shears and razor.
- It can be styled smooth or with a modernized textured finish.
Watch the video to learn how to cut a French bob with Sam Villa in the full-length tutorial.
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25. A Unique Approach to the Classic Graduated Bob
The bob is a classic shape and an ideal cut when it comes to strengthening your foundations. One such update to this cut is the graduated bob, which continues to trend year after year. If you have difficulty creating the classic bob, a graduated bob or a tilted bob, this video is for you.
Sam Villa ArTeam Member Jesse Linares shares a unique approach which builds the graduation in the haircut first.
This will provide a more consistent result that you can apply behind the chair.
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3. Face-Framing Techniques
Every great piece of art deserves the perfect frame. Every day, the first thing your guests see is the front of their haircut and how it affects their face shape. The right face-framing technique can accentuate their best features or take the focus away from areas they want to hide.
Within this section of our video guide, you will find options for different hair textures as well as creative possibilities that are easy to apply in the salon.
1. How To Easily Frame Hair Around the Face Using a Twist Cutting Technique
2. Face-Framing Technique: Add Texture Without Removing Length
3. Simple Face-Framing Technique: Front Twist Cutting Technique
4. Adding Face-Framing Layers to Fine Hair to Accentuate Features
5. How to Create Face-Framing Layers with a Razor
6. Long Layers with Face Framing
7. Face Framing Tutorial on a Short Bob
8. How to Cut Face Framing Layers
9. Face Framing Technique For Adding Texture Without Removing Length
10. Long Curtain Fringe Tutorial
1. How To Easily Frame Hair Around the Face Using a Twist Cutting Technique
Whether your client likes to switch their part or Looking for an easy way to frame hair around the face without making one side look shorter? We’ve got two solutions to that problem.
Face Framing Cutting Techniques:
- One way to do this is to create various points of reference with length and elevation from each side.
- The other is to start with a center part and create three points of reference. There’s also another way that utilizes a wide-tooth comb and the Signature Series Dry Cutting Shear, which allows you gather a lot of hair at one time. It’s all about combing consistently and elevating the hair before your cutting hand starts the action.
Watch the video to find out how easy it is to get an angle that goes from short to long and will be consistent on both sides.
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2. Face-Framing Technique: Add Texture Without Removing Length
When creating texture around the face, it's really important not to take too much length off. To add texture and movement around the face without taking away length or adding excess layers to the haircut, this face framing technique is essential.
Face Framing Techniques:
- Grab a Signature Serie Dry Cutting Shear. The blade is designed to hold the hair so you’re not pushing it out of the shear while you cut.
- Find your reference point and take a horizontal finger position there.
- Come in from behind and place your thumb in the shear. Now open and close as you talk your way down the hair strand to the perimeter.
Watch the video and learn to master the technique.
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3. Simple Face-Framing Technique: Front Twist Cutting Technique
Twist cutting is a great cutting technique designed to achieve a balanced angle in the front from short to long. The key is consistent combing and proper finger placement.
How To Twist Cut the Face Frame:
- Separate front to back on both sides.
- Use a large cutting comb to comb the hair forward toward you.
- Start with your cutting hand, establishing where you want the length. Come through, pointing your fingers down.
- Now, bring your left hand directly over that and continue to twist.
- Then, cut a horizontal line with your dry cutting shears.
- Once you release you’ll have the angle working from short to long on both sides in one cut.
Watch the video and learn how to do it yourself.
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4. Adding Face-Framing Layers to Fine Hair to Accentuate Features
When adding layers to fine hair, it is really easy to create wispy ends around the face. With fine hair you want to concentrate on strengthening the ends, so instead of elevating, you’re going to create defined pieces that will provide more density and create the illusion of fullness.
How To Create Fullness With Face Framing Layers:
- The key is to find a focal point first. For example, start with the cheekbones or jawline and highlight that area.
- Then, take the front edge and pinch a little piece of hair forward. Don’t slide-cut back and away from the face. Instead, come in from behind and talk the shears forward to the focal point for a pop of visual interest.
Watch the video and get the whole story.
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5. How to Create Face-Framing Layers with a Razor
Creating face framing layers with a razor is a great technique to create a highly textured feel in one step. To get the look, the Sam Villa Signature Series Razor is essential.
Creating Face-Framing Layers with a Razor:
- Since you’ll be working on dry hair, prep the hair with Redken Shine Flash shine mist to add a bit of slide.
- Now, take a diagonal section through the fringe area and over-direct it to the opposite cheekbone. Maintain a 45-degree elevation and have a finger angle that’s perpendicular to the grain of the hair. Use a light, gentle stroking motion back and forth on each section until you remove the desired amount of hair.
- Multiple cuts will produce the softness and movement you want, and it’s fine to have a little detachment from guide to guide.
Watch the video and see how a combination of over-direction, elevation and finger angle can make a difference in your results.
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6. Long Layers with Face Framing
Learn a simple way to create a long layered haircut with face framing for your guests with all different hair types and densities. This in-depth haircutting tutorial features a sectioning technique called the Foundational Breakdown.
- Begin by prepping damp hair with Redken One United.
- Section the hair into four major areas: left side, right side, center back, top. Clip the top and side sections out of the way. Remember that elevation and finger angle both affect the weight balance in a long layered haircut. A lower elevation will remove more density from the perimeter and leave weight at the top of the shape, while a higher elevation will remove more density from the top and keep weight in the perimeter.
- Take a vertical subsection from the center back of the head and point cut into the ends with the Sam Villa 6.75” Streamline Series Shear. Repeat with the entire center back section.
- Next, unclip the top section and divide it into two parts. Create a vertical line from the high point or “peak” of the head down to the center back section on each side. Separate the hair in front of this line, split it down the midline, and add it to the front side pieces.
- Repeat the point cutting process on the crown section. Once the layers are cut, texture in the perimeter. Cutting the perimeter after creating the layers keeps you from cutting the same hair twice.
- To create the face framing bangs or face framing layers, over-direct the hair forward at a lower elevation. This will help the hair fall back and away from the face. Adjust your finger angle depending on how quickly you want the shape to drop from the shortest face framing layer into the perimeter. Once you cut the shortest piece, use it as a guide to connect your face frame to the perimeter.
- Blow dry the hair, re-adjust the shape as needed, blend any heavy layers, and you're done!
Watch the video for a full haircut demonstration and discover how to create beautiful airy layers.
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7. Face Framing Tutorial on a Short Bob
When cutting a blunt bob, sometimes there can be too much hair left around the face. Avoid angling off the corners of the bob to create a face frame around the jaw, as this disrupts the perimeter and the shape of the hairstyle. Instead, follow this video to learn how to create a face frame on a blunt bob.
How To Create a Face Frame on a Blunt Bob:
- First, identify where the fringe ends, slightly in front of the high point of the head. Starting from that point, take a slight diagonal back section about ½ inch inside the hair. Clip the hair behind this out of the way.
- Pick up a small diagonal forward subsection next to the fringe, and add a small piece of the fringe to use as a guide. Over-direct this subsection forward and slide cut from the interior, connecting the guide to the perimeter. This creates a shorter layer that opens up the bob cut around the face. If needed, add a little more hair to the face framing section and re-cut. Repeat on the opposite side.
- It’s that simple! The Sam Villa Artist Series 6” Slide Cutting Shear is perfect for this task, since the curved blades create buttery-soft edges as you slide through the hair. If you find that the new face framing layers look detached from the perimeter, use the Sam Villa Signature Series Invisiblend Shear to blend the area where the layer joins the lower section of hair. One or two taps should do it-- be careful not to over-blend!
Watch the video to learn how to add face framing layers to a short bob.
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8. Face Framing Technique For Adding Texture Without Removing Length
Many of our guests with one-length haircuts would like a face frame that shows off their favorite features. To do this you need to add texture to the haircut without sacrificing length or creating lots of layers. Here’s a way to achieve that soft face frame while keeping density through the perimeter.
How To Add Texture Without Removing Length:
- During the consultation, identify the facial feature that you want to highlight (such as her cheekbone or jawline). This will serve as the reference point for your face framing pieces.
- Place your fingers into the hair beside the face at the level of the chosen reference point, with your fingers parallel to the ground. Make sure to only pick up the amount of hair that you can “safely” cut without jeopardizing the perimeter.
- Bring your Sam Villa Signature Series 7" Dry Cutting Shear into the hair from behind the guide hand. Slide your hand down the hair and place the blades at the level of the reference point. “Talk” your way down the section (opening and closing the shears with your thumb), while sliding your guide hand down the hair.
- When you reach the bottom of the section, the fingers of your guide hand should point to where you want to end the frame. Target this area as you finish cutting, then repeat on the other side.
Watch the video to master this face framing technique to create a beautiful soft face frame with a hint of texture that’s perfect for your guests who love their one length styles!
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9. How to Cut Face Framing Layers
Face framing layers are one of the most common requests from salon clients, so this is a great area to extend your skills. By working with diagonal sections and high elevation, you can create a beautiful soft face frame with confidence and control.
How To Create Face Framing Layers:
- Begin with dry hair and a center part. Take a diagonal forward section next to the face and elevate it diagonally out from the head. Determine the point on the face where you want the layers to start, and place your fingers into the section at this point. Cut along the guide with the Sam Villa Signature Series Dry Cutting Swivel Shear, then fan out the section and point cut into the ends for added softness.
- Pick up another diagonal forward section next to the guide section, and elevate both sections together. Slide your hand up the section until you are one finger length past the guide line. The guide will drop out of the section. Cut along the guide, then fan out the section and point cut into the ends.
- Continue working back through the hair in diagonal forward sections, adding each new section to the existing layers and over-directing the hair to the center part. Extend your hand to one finger length past the previous layer, then cut any hair that remains. Keep working past the ear until you run out of hair and all of the hair falls out when over-directed forward.
- The use of guides and over-direction helps to create consistent, predictable results with less blending. Just comb through the hair and check for gaps or holes in your face frame. If needed, elevate the hair again and point cut into the ends to remove any excess weight. Repeat on the opposite side, and you’re good to go!
Watch the video to discover how to cut face framing layers in long and short hair.
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10. Long Curtain Fringe Tutorial
Creating a long curtain fringe is a great way to add a low-maintenance bang option to any hair cut. Here’s a new way to create a long curtain fringe using reverse graduation.
How To Create a Long Curtain Fringe:
- Working with dry hair, create a center part and isolate the hair that will make up the fringe in a triangle-shaped section. Clip the rest of the hair out of the way.
- Now pick up a slight diagonal subsection from each side of the center part. Bring these two subsections together and over-direct the hair forward, with the hair elevated horizontally (parallel to the floor). With your finger angle vertical (the fingers of your guide hand pointing straight down), point cut into the hair with your Sam Villa Signature Series 5.75” Wet Cutting Shear.
- Pick up another vertical subsection, add the hair to the center subsection, and overdirect the hair forward and to the center. Use the spine of your comb to separate your guide (the hair that was just cut) from the newly added hair. Slide your fingers down the section until the guide is pinched between your fingers, then point cut into the ends of the new hair. Detaching each section in this way creates a softer, lighter edge and helps the ends “flick” outward. Continue this process until you reach the edge of the fringe, then repeat on the opposite side.
- To finish this hairstyle, use a flat iron and round brush to bevel the curtain fringe. If needed, use the Sam Villa Signature Series Dry Cutting Swivel Shear to trim any pieces that are still too long after beveling.
Watch the video to master this technique for cutting a long curtain fringe or curtain bangs.
Back to Face-Framing Techniques | Back to Main Index
4. How to Cut Bangs
Bangs (you may prefer to call them a fringe) are a must-have accessory for any classic or trendy haircut.. A thoughtfully created, skillfully executed fringe is not easy though!
By studying the videos in this section, you will not only feel more confident but also have an incredible library of concepts to recommend that perfect bang to any salon guest.
1. Blending Shear Backstroke Technique: Remove Weight & Add Volume
2. How To Cut and Finish a Full Fringe
3. How To Cut a Side Sweeping Fringe
4. Cutting The Perfect Fringe Using The Twist Bang Cut Technique
5. The Michelle Williams Fringe
6. How To Cut A No-Tension Full Fringe: Zoey Deschanel Bangs Tutorial
7. 2 Ways to Cut Bangs: Side Sweeping Fringe and Chunky Textured Fringe
8. Statement Fringe: How To Cut Short Full Bangs
9. How To Cut Angled Bangs: The Asymmetrical Layered Fringe
10. How To Cut Fringe with Reverse Graduation
11. Removing Weight From a Heavy Fringe
12. How To Cut Balanced Blunt Bangs 13. How to Cut Short Bangs, Baby Bangs, Baby Fringe or Statement Fringe
14. Curtain Fringe - Curtain Bangs How-To with Horizontal Sections
15. How to Cut Short Bangs with Lots of Texture - Baby Fringe
16. How to Cut Side Sweeping Bangs to Wear to Either Side - Double Side Fringe
17. Twist Fringe / Twist Bang Technique - An update to your favorite technique!
18. How To Cut Long Curtain Bangs / Curtain Fringe Tutorial
19. How To Blow Dry Bangs With a Cowlick
20. How To Create Curtain Bangs
21. Pixie Haircut Tutorial - Cutting the Top
1. Blending Shear Backstroke Technique: Remove Weight & Add Volume
Here’s an efficient way to remove weight and add volume in the fringe area. We call it the Blending Shear Backstroke Technique.
How To Remove Weight & Add Volume:
- Start by taking a diagonal forward slice.
- Now, over-direct the hair so it moves back and away from the face. Place the blunt blade of the Sam Villa Invisiblend Shear in the hair on the diagonal and weave it through.
- Then close, backstroke, open, close, backstroke and release the section.
Watch the video to master a technique designed to control movement around the perimeter edge.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
2. How To Cut and Finish a Full Fringe
This is a foolproof technique to cut a deep fringe with a natural bevel. Using our Sam Villa Signature Series 7” Dry Cutting Shears creates less margin for error because you’re not opening and closing them as frequently. And dry cutting also lets you more accurately determine the correct length.
How To Cut a Full Fringe:
- Keeping a wide-tooth comb flat to the forehead, drop the hair deep into the teeth, come in with your dry cutting shear and establish your guide.
- Cut on the left side and repeat on the right.
- Our advice: Never leave fringes one length.
Watch the video and eliminate the guessing game of how much of the corner to cut off.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
3. How To Cut a Side Sweeping Fringe
You have seen Sam create a balanced fringe with a "twist-cutting" technique, now watch as he adapts the technique to achieve a beautiful side-sweeping fringe!
Tips For Cutting a Side Sweeping Fringe:
- A key element to creating any side-sweeping fringe is making sure that you are working with the guest's natural part.
- By placing your body off center when twisting, it builds strong over-direction that easily produces that natural sweeping movement you are looking for.
Watch as Sam also gives you an easy way to find your guest's natural part.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
4. How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe - Cutting The Perfect Fringe Using The Twist Bang Cut Technique
Twist Cutting is a great technique to create perfect bangs with a degree of shortness in the center that perfectly frame the face. Cutting the hair dry allows you to judge the length accordingly.
How To Use Twist Cutting to Create A Fringe:
- Start from the high point of the head to the corner of the eyes, and remember that you have a creative choice when it comes to how heavy you want that fringe to be.
- Work with your large cutting comb, stabilizing each section with the fine teeth underneath.
- Come in with no elevation, keeping your hand close to the head. Now twist, cut and release.
Watch the video to learn how to execute this groundbreaking technique for yourself.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
5. The Michelle Williams Fringe
Duplicate actress Michelle Williams' classic pixie fringe, while giving the fringe multiple identities.
How To Cut a Michelle Williams Pixie Fringe:
- To create the first look, which has a rock 'n' roll feel, use the Sam Villa Signature Series 7” Dry Cutting Shear to cut the hair barely off the skin but as close to the natural fall as possible.
- Maintain a low elevation so the bangs don’t become wispy, and point-cut the length away, working very visually.
- Using the still blade on the shear, whittle the hair away to create peaks and valleys and some open spaces.
- Then, to channel classic Hollywood chic, simply comb the hair to the opposite side so the longer hair tucks in nicely.
Now watch the video to learn how to create a fringe with multiple personalities.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
6. How To Cut A No-Tension Full Fringe: Zoey Deschanel Bangs Tutorial
A really full fringe can awaken any shape, here we're detailing the top tups to create the perfect full fringe.
How To Cut a Full Fringe:
- Cutting a full fringes dry lets you control the growth patterns.
- Another trick is to work with a center part, combing the hair forward in a natural falling position.
- The fringe will tell you where it wants to split when you push it up. You’ll be working with a rectangular shape and using a wide-tooth comb so you have no tension.
- Fringes are very temperamental, but by using your middle finger as a cutting board, you’ll get a more relaxed fringe.
- The perfect fringe is never one length, and you’re not home free until you bevel the fringe by knocking the corner off.
Watch the video to master the technique that would make Zoey Deschanel proud.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
7. 2 Ways to Cut Bangs: Side Sweeping Fringe and Chunky Textured Fringe
Taylor Swift and Britney Spears have been working side-sweeping fringes lately. This look is a great technique when you want to be able to move the fringe from one side to the other to easily give the look a whole new identity.
Side Swept Fringe:
- For this trend, your blending shears come in handy. Use them to release the length with a soft edge, cutting the fringe on the bias so it has the ability to move.
Another trend we're seeing is a fringe with tons of texture. Lots of chewy texture with plenty of density woven in.
Highly Textured Fringe:
- To create the look, use your blending shears to take large and deliberate pieces out. Cut diagonally in the opposite direction and watch how the different textures play against one another.
Watch the video to see exactly how to get the looks.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
8. Statement Fringe: How To Cut Short Full Bangs
Statement fringes like baby bangs are having a moment, but creating surface texture on really dense hair when working this close to the hairline can be a challenge. Here, we detail exactly how to cut short and full bangs.
How To Cut Baby Bangs:
- Grab your Sam Villa Signature Series 5.75” Shears and go a little shorter, using a point-cutting technique to freehand in the fringe.
- Then, switch to the professional invisiblend shear. Come in at a slight diagonal to the hair strand, close and slide through to eliminate some of the bulk.
- Now, go for that visual surface interest by grabbing what you want to cut and talking the shears down the hair strand.
Watch the video and learn how to get aggressive with your fringes to get that vandalized texture that’s right on trend.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
9. How To Cut Angled Bangs: The Asymmetrical Layered Fringe
An asymmetrical layered fringe creates a lot of movement with a nice tilt for a focal point. The key is to layer first and then refine your perimeter. Here, we detail just how to get the look.
How To Create an Asymmetrical Fringe:
- Using your Signature Series 7” Dry Cutting Shears, point-cut in your cutting line to mimic the head shape. Point-cut to the guide, over-directing back to the stationary guide.
- Keep over-directing back to the stationary guide and follow the head shape to build up a lot of length to the left.
- Now come in and refine the perimeter. This is where you have options - leave it a bit longer or really make a statement by going shorter.
Watch the video and see exactly how it’s done.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
10. How To Cut Fringe with Reverse Graduation
This is a great way to create a fringe with a sense of fullness and disrupted texture around the edges.Cutting A Fringe with Reverse Graduation:
- Start from the inside and work your way out. Pick up your Signature Series Dry Cutting Shear and point-cut, scanning as you work across the first section, elevating diagonally as you scan the second section.
- Next, elevate to the guideline and keep your finger angle behind the guide so you can go deeper into the third section. Keeping the shears at a diagonal, establish the length. When you release the weight, your shears will be perpendicular to the desired length and you'll start to see a chewed-up edge.
- Now, come in and bevel the fringe.
Watch the video to see exactly how it's done!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
11. Removing Weight From a Heavy Fringe
If working on wet hair sometimes when you go to dry it, you'll find out you’ve left too much weight in the fringe. A solution to this issue is by figuring out where the density lives. A common mistake is to texturize the surface because the problem is usually on the inside.
How To Remove Weight From a Heavy Fringe:
- Grab your Signature Series Invisiblend Shear. You can be very aggressive with this shear without seeing any lines in your haircut.
- The weight usually comes from the lower section so come in underneath, pull the shear away and remove small amounts of hair.
- With each section you’re going to float out a little farther away from the scalp so you don’t get any jumpers as you get close to the surface.
Watch the video to learn how to start from the inside out when addressing density.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
12. How To Cut Balanced Blunt Bangs
To cut perfect blunt bangs, using 3 guide pieces helps keep that heavy straight line balanced and even from side to side. Here's how you do it.
How To Cut Balanced Bangs:
- To create blunt bangs, start by drawing a line from the corner of the eye up to the top of the head on each side. (For most guests, the two lines will connect just below the high point of the head.) The hair that falls in front will form the fringe. Clip the hair behind this section out of the way.
- Next, create your guides! Separate a very small section of hair at each edge of the section (above the corner of each eye) and another small section at the midline (above the bridge of the nose). Clip the rest of the front section on top of the head. Using the eyes as a reference point, cut the guides to your desired bang length.
- Drop a fine horizontal layer of hair over the guide pieces to define your perimeter. Clip the rest of the front section back on top of the head. Place the hair into the wide teeth of your cutting comb, adjust your comb angle to view both guides, and connect the side and middle guides using the Sam Villa Signature Series Swivel Dry Cutting Shear.
- Separate another thin horizontal section, drop the hair over the newly cut perimeter, and clip the rest of the hair back on top of the head. Again, set the hair gently in the comb’s wide teeth, make sure you can see both guides and the previously cut section, and connect the guides together.
- Repeat until all of the hair from the triangle-shaped front section has been added to the fringe. Take your time here! Working in small subsections helps prevent hair pushing out of the shears, accidental overdirection, and a too-short fringe! If needed, use the Sam Villa Signature Series Invisiblend Shear to gently remove weight from heavy areas.
As with all haircutting techniques, working with strategy and intention is key. Watch the video to learn how to create a solid, even perimeter on your blunt bangs!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
13. How to Cut Short Bangs, Baby Bangs, Baby Fringe or Statement Fringe
Whether you call them baby bangs, baby fringe, or statement fringe - textured short bangs are everywhere right now. The key to creating this dramatic look is to work with intention and purpose and to add a touch of softness to make it more wearable!
How To Cut Short Fringe:
- Start by defining the area where the fringe will live. Using your comb, draw a vertical line from the corner of each eye up to the top of the head. Comb this hair forward into its natural fall and clip the rest of the hair out of the way.
- For crisp definition, cut the statement fringe at zero elevation (in its natural fall). Make your first cut just above your guest’s eye with the Sam Villa Signature Series Swivel Dry Cutting Shear at a slight angle to the grain of the hair. Work through the hair on each side, creating peaks and valleys to develop your desired shape. Once you’ve cut the bangs on each side, move on to the center of the baby fringe.
- Then shake and tousle the fringe with your fingers and trim any stray hairs. If these heavy bangs feel blocky at the bottom, point cut into the fringe with the Sam Villa Signature Series Invisiblend Shear to gently extract weight. It’s that simple!
Watch the video to learn how to add baby bangs to long or short hairstyles!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
14. Curtain Fringe - Curtain Bangs How-To with Horizontal Sections
Curtain bangs also known as “curtain fringe,” are one of the most popular types of bangs for their ability to be incredibly versatile. There are many different ways to cut curtain bangs and it’s always a great idea to keep things fresh with new techniques! By using horizontal sections you have perfect control over the perimeter shape, making this a great option for guests with thick, heavy hair.
How To Cut a Curtain Fringe:
- Begin by wrap drying the hair and sectioning off the fringe area. To find the hair’s natural fall, grab the hair in the recession area and blouse it. The fringe section is defined by the recession lines (where the hair naturally splits) and the high point of the head. Clip the back sections out of the way.
- Pick up a ½ inch horizontal section across the forehead and comb it forward to natural fall. Clip the rest of the hair up on top of the head. Pick up a center subsection and place the hair into the wide teeth of the comb. Slide the comb down to just below the guest’s eyebrows and remove length with the Sam Villa Streamline Series 6.25” Shear. Remember to err on the longer side to avoid removing too much hair-- you can always go back and cut the hair shorter later, but you can’t put back hair once it’s been cut!
- Repeat this process on the right and left sides, with the comb placed at an angle. As you point cut into the hair with the tips of the shears, freehand cut a slight curvature to frame the face.
- Next, separate another small horizontal section from the crown. Pick up a guide piece, elevate the hair at 90 degrees to the head shape, and point cut the center section to the length of the guide. Repeat on the right and left sides. Make sure NOT to over direct the hair! Elevating the hair gives these long curtain bangs tons of movement and beautiful soft edges.
- Continue working back through the head shape in narrow horizontal sections, using a guide from the layer underneath, until all the fringe has been cut. Finish with Redken Dry Texture Spray on the surface of the fringe, and you’re good to go!
Watch the video to learn how to cut and style curtain bangs!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
15. How to Cut Short Bangs with Lots of Texture - Baby Fringe
Creating super short bangs with a ton of texture is a great way to add a bold finish. If your guest asks for a trendy micro fringe, it’s tempting to bring all the hair to its natural fall and start cutting freehand. Unfortunately, this can result in overly heavy bangs or an uneven perimeter! Planning and intention are essential to creating a balanced perimeter with soft movement on your short textured bangs.
How To Create Textured Baby Fringe:
- Start by blow drying the fringe, then separate a horizontal section across the top of the forehead. Comb the hair behind this section off to the side and secure in place with a clip.
- Starting in the center, point cut the section with a smaller shear such as the Sam Villa Streamline Series Shear. This is a very short style, but the blow dry will prevent hairs from popping up.
- Once you’ve cut the baby fringe on the “guide” section, release the clip and comb the hair into its natural fall.
- Pick up a small vertical subsection and elevate it to 90 degrees, so that the hair is parallel to the floor. Find the guide piece and point cut the hair to the length of the guide.
- This layering technique adds shape and softness to super short bangs. Repeat this process with the rest of the fringe, overdirecting each vertical subsection to the center.
- For extra-soft and light finish, use your Sam Villa Signature Series Invisiblend Shear to lift weight from the perimeter and texturize the surface with the Sam Villa Artist Series Slide Cutting Shear.
- Apply Redken Invisible Dry Shampoo to the fringe, scrunch through the hair with your fingers for trendy texture, and you’re done!
Watch the video to learn how to cut super short bangs in both long and short hair.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
16. How to Cut Side Sweeping Bangs to Wear to Either Side - Double Side Fringe
There's a secret to cutting side sweeping bangs for a guest who changes their part from day to day. The trick is to use diagonal lines and create a soft edge using a blending shear. And remember, blunt lines add weight, which will prevent the bangs from floating to the other side.
How To Cut a Versatile Side Swept Fringe:
- Start by locating your guest’s natural parts on the left and right sides. To do this, comb the hair diagonally back to the top of the crown and blouse the hair forward. Notice where the hair splits open on each side - this is the natural part.
- Use your comb to create a triangle-shaped section from the natural part on each side to the top of the head. Isolate the hair below this section with clips, and part the triangle section down the center.
- Elevate a section diagonally and place your guide fingers into the hair at the length of the guest’s lip. Working from short to long, weave the blunt blade of the Sam Villa Signature Series Reversible Blending Shear through the section (as if you were doing a highlight).
- Close the teeth of the blade around the hair and slide the shear up towards the head. Release and repeat these steps until all the hair has been texturized. The hair will be tangled, but that’s okay!
- Comb through the section vertically with the parting pick of your comb, then de-tangle with the comb’s teeth. Repeat this process on the other side of the head.
- The result is a balanced fringe with its longest point in the center. Your guest can easily sweep her bangs to either side depending on her mood, or even part the fringe down the middle for curtain bangs! This is a great way to add value behind the chair by customizing the haircut for her preferences.
Watch the video to master this cool technique for creating reversible side swept bangs!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
17. Twist Fringe / Twist Bang Technique - An update to your favorite technique!
Take your twist bang cutting technique to the next level. A twist bang is a fringe that’s twisted when you cut it, creating a graduated arch effect that frames the face beautifully. The key to achieving a perfect twist cut fringe is to pay attention to the details, including the hair parting, elevation and finger angle.
- Begin by parting dry hair in the center and sectioning off a triangle-shaped section on either side of the part. Secure the hair behind the triangle sections with Sam Villa Dry Sectioning Clips.
- Comb the two triangle sections together and over-direct the hair forward over the face. Check the shape for balance-- are both sides equal? If not, adjust the sections to ensure that each one has the same amount of hair.
- Holding the hair as low as possible, with minimal elevation, grip the hair with the index and middle fingers of your cutting hand over the bridge of the nose. Maintaining a horizontal finger angle that is parallel to the floor is essential for creating even and balanced bangs.
- Rotate your cutting hand so that your fingers point toward the bridge of the nose. Then place the index and middle fingers of your non-cutting hand on top of your cutting hand, grip the hair firmly, and slide your cutting hand away. Finish the twist by rotating your non-cutting hand so that your fingers are flat against the forehead while holding the hair.
- Using your Sam Villa Streamline Series Shear, “scan” across the hair underneath your twist grip by point cutting into the section at a slight angle to the grain of the hair. Pick up a small piece of hair from the crown of the head to use as a guide and cut it at the level of the hairline.
- Working in horizontal subsections from the crown of the head down to the hairline, over-direct the hair back towards the crown and cut it to the length of the guide. Keep your shear angle parallel to the floor and create straight blunt lines. The over-direction gives you natural graduation that follows the head shape.
- Finish by beveling the bangs with the Sam Villa Sleekr Straightening Iron and Signature Series Thermal Styling Brush. Mist the surface of the fringe with Redken Invisible Dry Shampoo, take out the side clips, and you’re good to go!
Watch the video to learn a fresh technique for successfully cutting a twist bang.
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
18. How To Cut Long Curtain Bangs / Curtain Fringe Tutorial
Learn how to cut curtain bangs that fall straight down in the center and drop off into long, sweeping edges. The secret to obtaining this sharp drop in length while maintaining softness is to use a blend of vertical and horizontal cutting techniques.
How To Create Curtain Fringe:
- Start by blow drying the hair into its natural fall. Separate the center section that falls in front of your guest’s nose, from the center of one pupil to the center of the other pupil.
- Elevate this section to a 90° horizontal angle and over-direct the hair to the center. Point cut into the section with your Sam Villa Artist Series Shear 6.25” nearly parallel to the grain of the hair. Cut your fringe a little longer than you think it needs to be. Remember, you can always go back and remove more hair, but you can’t put the hair back if you go too short!
- To cut the long sides of the curtain fringe, pick up a horizontal section that is framed by the center section, the recession area and the hairline. Elevate this section at a 90° angle to the head shape and grip the hair with a steep diagonal finger angle. Remove the excess length and point cut deep into the hair, using a small piece from the center section as a guide. Continue this process as you work up the head in horizontal sections, then repeat on the opposite side.
- Texturize the center section by point cutting into the perimeter edge, keeping the hair at a low elevation and your shears parallel to the grain of the hair. For a defined and textured finish, style the curtain bangs with Redken Deep Clean Dry Shampoo.
Watch the video to learn how to create long curtain bangs with ease!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
19. How To Blow Dry Bangs With a Cowlick
If you have a cowlick or erratic growth patterns in your bangs, follow this simple blow drying technique to fix the problem!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
20. How To Create Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are such a versatile fringe shape, which is why they continue to trend each season. With a huge spike on social media confirming the interest in curtain bangs, now is the perfect time to brush up on how to cut them.
Byrdie reports that as of late, the bangs have enjoyed a 600% spike in pins on Pinterest.
Celebrities Alexa Chung and Kirsten Dunst to name a few are embracing this look, and can you blame them? They're wispy and perfectly frame the sides of your face!
In this razor haircut tutorial, Sam Villa demonstrates how to create curtain bangs and tips for styling them too!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
21. Pixie Haircut Tutorial - Cutting the Top
With short haircuts, every angle and every cut really counts. With a Pixie length, the shape can really make or break the final finish. To help create the perfect balance, Sam Villa ArTeam Member Jesse Linares shares ideas on cutting the top of the undercut utilizing razor techniques for softness.
Watch the video to add the finishing touches to this beautiful shape!
How to Cut Bangs & Style Fringe | Back to Main Index
5. Shags
A great shag hairstyle consists of choppy ends, layers around the crown, and lots of texture. Watch these videos to help you master the shag haircut.
1. How To Cut and Style a Short Shag
2. How to Create a Modern Shag Haircut
3. How to cut hair to move away from the face
4. Shear-Cut Shag With Becka Bradshaw
5. Transformation Tuesday w/ Sammy - Matt Beck of FreeSalonEducation.Com - The Modern Shag
6. How to Create Hairstyles According to Face Shape - Working With Features
1. How To Cut and Style a Short Shag
The shag haircut had a huge comeback in recent years and will continue to trend. For best results behind the chair learning how to master the shag haircut to make it work for your client and their hair texture is key. In this tutorial, you'll discover a fresh approach to cutting and styling a short shag haircut and how to utilize a diffuser and a "crinkling" effect to coax out the massive texture created through the detached and disconnected layers in this short haircut.
2. How to Create a Modern Shag Haircut
The Modern Shag has been trending for the few seasons but now it's making it's way into a salon staple. Discover a new approach to a classic haircut in this full length video from Sam Villa.
3. How to Cut Hair to Move Away from the Face
With just the right technique, you can enhance the shape of the hair to direct the hair forward or back. In this tutorial, you'll discover how to layer hair on top of the head using a diamond section to create a sense of movement back and away from the face.
This is an excellent layering technique for the modern shag haircut as the top detaches from the underneath, allowing you to maintain weight and length over the ear.
4. Shear-Cut Shag
Choosing the right tool to create the right outcome should always be your first decision when approaching a highly textured haircut. Learn how, when, where & why to choose a shear vs. a razor (Hint)...it's about MORE than just the client's hair texture!
The Shear-Cut Shag:
- Learn the effects of a shear-cut vs. a razor-cut shag
- Find out where to begin this heavily-requested cut & why it's not in the nape or perimeter
- See different cutting techniques to utilize when creating this lived-in look such as slide-cutting & back-cutting
- Learn why you may want to put down the round brush when blow-drying & utilize your diffuser instead
5. The Modern Shag
Join our good friend and digital education pioneer Matt Beck with host Andrew Carruthers to discover a fresh approach to a crowd favorite, the Modern Shag.
What You'll Learn:
- Dry Haircutting How To’s
- Texturizing Techniques
- Finishing the Look
6. How to Create Hairstyles According to Face Shape - Working With Features
Discover how to create hairstyles according to face shape by working to accentuate your salon guest's most attractive features while drawing attention away from areas they don't want focused on.
Most salon guests (and even hairdressers) aren't the best judge of whether someone has a round face, square face, oval face, etc. So following the so-called "rules" doesn't always work. Instead, look at overall dimensions and how the hair cut will balance the overall face shape while drawing the eye to stand out features.
