How I Cut My Hair For Fun and Savings

Photo by *Karen
The recession economy might be getting you down, but don't let it cramp your style. Your hairstyle that is. I've decided to take matters into my own hands; fed up with expensive (though talented!) stylists I now cut my own hair and I think it looks pretty good. I might try to post a photo so you all are similarly convinced. Also I have had my hair every length, so I know if I end up doing something catastrophic, the V for Vendetta buzz a la Natalie Portman will look just fine.

I am so thrilled with my new found talents with a pair of shears that I was going to do a video instructional type thing, but then discovered YouTube was glut with such info! Here are a few of my own tips and two videos I think any woman with longish hair could utilize easily.

My at-home haircutting tips:

1. Buy professional grade shears at a beauty supply store. They are quite sharp will produce far more even cuts. I also recommend thinning shears and a razor tool if you want to do some fancy layers or texturizing. Blunt ends and awkward angles are a dead giveaway you are a do-it-yourselfer. Plus, you can easily mask mistakes with a bit of razoring.

2. Cut small sections at a time and clip back the parts you don't want to cut, as hair has a funny way of moving around at just the wrong time. Not like I'd know. Also, start with something simple, like trimming your bangs or creating subtle layers by trimming just the crown section of your hair. (See second video below.)

3. I cut my hair dry. Apparently you are not supposed to do this, as wet hair is easier to control and provides more even cuts. I only do this because it is easier to know how much will be gone as hair tends to shrink a bit when it finally dries. You will figure out what you prefer, so it can't hurt to have a spray bottle.

So, after scouring YouTube the following two videos are my favorite.

The first is a girl who calls herself AhanBarbie and does her hair and makeup to Bright Eyes' music. She also has a wealth of tips on hair products, styling, and makeup.



Don't be fooled by the low-quality video on this next clip. This woman provides a simple technique and explanation for how to create long layers.