How Many Bundles For a Sew In Hair Extensions?

Sew in hair extensions are a go-to solution for adding length, volume, and versatility to your hairstyle. But one question always comes up: “How many bundles do I need for a sew in?” The answer depends on several key factors — including your desired style, hair length, and whether you’re using a closure or frontal. This guide will break it all down so you can make the best choice for your look and your budget.

Overview of Sew In Hair and How many bundles for a sew in?

Sew in hair is a popular and long-lasting method of installing hair extensions by sewing wefts of hair onto tightly braided natural hair. This technique is favored for its ability to:

• Add length and volume
• Protect natural hair from heat and styling damage
• Allow for versatile hairstyles without altering your real hair

Sew-ins can last anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks, depending on hair care and the quality of the install. They’re ideal for those seeking a semi-permanent style that looks natural and can handle daily wear.

How Many Grams of Hair for a Sew-In? 

Most hair bundles are sold at around 100 grams (or 3.5 oz) per bundle. So, the total amount of hair (in grams) you need for a sew-in depends on the style, length, and volume you’re aiming for.

• Longer hair = thinner bundles, so you’ll need more bundles/grams for the same fullness.
• If you’re using a closure or frontal, you may need slightly fewer bundles (but the grams stay close).
• High-density looks or thicker hairlines require more grams for seamless blending and fullness.

How many bundles come in a pack?

It depends on the brand and seller, but usually, one pack contains one bundle. However, some sellers offer deals with 2 to 4 bundles in a single pack for convenience or better pricing.

About the number of bundles you need for a sew in: it depends on a few important factors: hair length, texture, desired volume, and whether you’re using a closure or frontal. The section below will explain this in more detail.

>>Explore more: How Many Bundles Do You Need for Perfect Hair Extensions?

What Affects the Number of Bundles?

When choosing how many bundles you’ll need for a sew in, it’s not just about picking a random number — several factors come into play. Understanding these will help you get the perfect fullness, length, and natural look.

Hair Length

How many bundles for a sew in for short hair? Long hair? Medium hair?

The longer the hair, the thinner each bundle appears. This is because bundles are typically sold by weight (around 100g each). So, as length increases, you’ll need more bundles to maintain volume. 

• Shorter styles 8–14 inches bundles: 2–3 bundles
• Medium (16–20”): 3–4 bundles
• Long sew‑in 22-inch bundles: 4–5 bundles

Hair Texture

Different textures affect how full your sew in looks:

• Straight hair less dense needs 3–4 bundles for fullness
• Curly or wavy hair, natural fullness, 2–3 bundles is often enough.
• Deep wave or kinky curly textures appear thick and full with less hair.

Head Size and Braid Pattern

If you have a larger head circumference or a braid pattern that requires more coverage, you might need an extra bundle. The way your stylist braids and positions the wefts can also affect how many bundles are required for a full, natural look.

Closure or Frontal

Whether you use a closure or a frontal can also impact how much hair you need:

• Closure (4×4, 5×5): Covers the crown — allows you to use fewer bundles (typically 2–3).
  
• Frontal (13×4, 13×6): Covers the entire front hairline — you may need fewer bundles overall since it offers more coverage.

Desired Volume

Your style goals matter:

• Natural look: 2–3 bundles
• Medium fullness: 3–4 bundles
• Full glam look: 4–5 bundles or more

>>Read more: What Are Bundles Hair? How to Choose the Best Hair Bundles for You

How to Choose the Perfect Number of Bundles for Any Sew In Style

Choosing the right number of bundles for your sew in bundles is essential to achieve a natural, full, and long-lasting hairstyle. Is 2 bundles enough for a sew in? Or 3? Or more? Different sew in styles require varying amounts of bundles depending on hair length, coverage, and the overall look you want. Here’s a detailed guide for common sew in types:

Traditional Sew In

This classic sew in style involves braiding the entire head and sewing wefts all over. It’s versatile and allows for many styling options.

Bundles needed:

• For full sew‑in length 12 inches to medium length hair (10–16 inches), about 3 bundles are usually sufficient to achieve good fullness and length.
• For medium to long hair (18–22 inches), plan on 4 bundles to maintain thickness and volume.
• For very long hair (24 inches and above), 4 to 5 bundles are recommended to ensure fullness without thinning out.

Advantages:

• Provides a secure, long-lasting style with added length and volume.
• Protects natural hair from damage by keeping it braided.

Considerations:

• Requires tight braids to support multiple bundles and avoid scalp discomfort.
• Needs regular scalp care to prevent damage.

Best For:

• Those seeking a full, voluminous, and durable hairstyle.
• People with healthy hair and scalp that can handle the weight.

Full Sew In

Unlike the traditional sew in,a method of sewing hair extensions in smaller sections which is the full sew in involves braiding the entire head and sewing hair wefts throughout to achieve complete coverage and maximum volume. This style is ideal for those looking for a full transformation or wanting to protect their natural hair entirely. But how many bundles do I need for a full head?

Bundles Needed:

• For short to medium lengths (10–16 inches): typically 3 to 4 bundles to ensure even coverage and fullness.
• For medium to long lengths (18–22 inches): usually 4 to 5 bundles to maintain thickness and length.
• For extra-long hair (24 inches and above): 5 or more bundles may be necessary since longer hair weighs less per bundle, requiring more bundles to keep a dense and full appearance.

Advantages:

• Creates the fullest, most voluminous look.
• Provides a dramatic transformation with maximum length and thickness.

Considerations:

• Requires strong, tight braids to support the weight of several bundles.
• Needs extra care to maintain scalp health due to heavier install.

Best For:

• Those wanting maximum volume and fullness.
• People with healthy scalp and hair that can handle heavier extensions.
  

Braidless Sew In

A braidless sew in is a modern technique that doesn’t require braiding your natural hair. Instead, hair wefts are attached using micro-links or silicone beads directly onto small sections of your natural hair. This method is lightweight, less stressful on the scalp, and offers more styling flexibility.

Bundles Needed:

• Typically, 2 to 3 bundles are sufficient for a braidless sew-in, depending on the volume and length you want to achieve.
• For longer require more bundles longer than 20 inches, you may need an extra bundle to maintain a fuller look.

Advantages:

• Less tension on the scalp since no braids are needed.
• Faster installation and more comfortable to wear.
• Allows for easier removal and less damage to natural hair.

Considerations:

• May not be as secure or long-lasting as traditional sew-ins.
• Best for lighter installs; heavier bundles might slip.
• Requires proper installation to avoid discomfort.

Best For:

• Those with sensitive scalps or fragile hair.
• People looking for a temporary or less damaging sew-in option.
• Anyone wanting a quick and comfortable hair extension style.

Partial Sew In

Partial sew-ins only cover part of the head, leaving some natural hair out to blend in for a more natural look and easier maintenance. The answer below will help you solve the issue: “How many bundles do I need for a sew in with leave out?”

Bundles needed:

• Typically 2 to 3 bundles depending on the coverage area.

Advantages:

• Less heavy than a full sew-in, so it’s easier to manage.
• Adds volume and length only where needed.
• Allows more natural hair to be exposed for a blended look.

Considerations:

• May not provide as much fullness as a full sew-in.
• Requires strategic placement for best results.
• Still needs care to avoid damage to natural hair.

Best For:

• Those wanting a subtle volume boost.
• People with healthy hair who want to add length or thickness in specific areas.
• Anyone looking for a less bulky sew-in style.

Vixen Sew In

The vixen sew in is a versatile installation method where the hair is sectioned into 2, 3, or 4 parts—most commonly into four quadrants—allowing for multiple styling options. This technique leaves portions of your natural hair out between the tracks so you can part, braid, bun, or ponytail your hair in various directions for a more natural and flexible look.

Bundles Needed:

• For the popular 4-part vixen sew in, you’ll typically need 3 to 4 bundles to ensure full coverage and even volume across all sections.
• For simpler versions (2 or 3-part styles), 2 to 3 bundles may be enough depending on your desired thickness and hair length.
  

Advantages:

• Provides a sleek, natural-looking finish with minimal bulk.
• Uses smaller, more flexible wefts for a comfortable fit.
• Allows for versatile styling with less tension on the scalp.

Considerations:

• Since vixen sew-ins leave a significant amount of your natural hair exposed, your real hair should be healthy, thick, and manageable to blend well with the extensions.
• This method requires a skilled stylist to properly section the hair and install wefts in a way that keeps parts clean and the hair protected.

Best For:

• People who love styling variety—whether it’s high ponytails, braids, or different partings—while keeping a natural look.

>> READ MORE: How Much Do Extensions Cost? Everything You Need To Know

Versatile Sew In

A versatile sew in is designed to give you flexibility in styling while still providing coverage and length. This method leaves more of your natural hair out around the hairline and parting areas—especially at the front, crown, or perimeter—so you can wear your hair up, down, parted differently, or even tucked behind the ears. 

Bundles Needed:

• Typically, you’ll need 2 to 3 bundles for a versatile sew in, depending on your desired volume and hair length.
• If you’re aiming for longer styles (20 inches and up), 3 to 4 bundles may be needed to keep the hair looking full.

Advantages:

• Allows for multiple parting options and ponytail styles.
• Leaves enough natural hair out for seamless blending with the extensions.
• Lighter and more breathable than a full sew in, making it ideal for everyday wear.

Considerations:

• Your natural hair must be healthy and able to blend well with the texture of the bundles.
• Because more of your own hair is exposed, you’ll need to maintain both the extensions and your natural hair regularly.

Best For:

• Anyone who wants the benefits of added volume and length but still enjoys the freedom of natural styling.

Sew In with 360 Frontal

A sew in with a 360 frontal combines the benefits of a traditional sew in with the complete coverage and styling versatility of a lace frontal that wraps around the entire hairline—front, back, and sides. This allows you to wear high ponytails, buns, or part your hair in any direction with a natural-looking finish.

Bundles Needed:

• Because the 360 frontal already provides full perimeter coverage, you’ll typically need 2 to 3 bundles to complete the look.
• For longer lengths (20 inches and up), 3 bundles is often ideal to maintain volume throughout.

Advantages:

• Gives a natural hairline all around.
• Perfect for updos, high ponytails, and styles that show the nape and edges.
• Offers full coverage with fewer bundles compared to a traditional full sew in.

Considerations:

• Requires proper installation and a skilled stylist to blend the frontal with your scalp.
• Lace maintenance (tinting, melting, gluing) is key to keeping the look natural over time.
• Good care and regular touch-ups will extend the life of both the bundles and the frontal.

Best For:

• Those who want styling freedom and a polished, natural finish all around the head without leaving out any of their natural hair.

Sew In with Lace Closure 

A lace closure sew in is one of the most popular options for those who want a natural-looking part without exposing their real hair. Closures are usually small (commonly 4×4, 5×5, or 6×6 inches) and are placed on the crown area to create the illusion of a natural scalp while neatly covering the ends of the sewn-in wefts. 

Bundles Needed:

Please check the answers for this question: “how many bundles do i need for a sew-in with a closure?” as below:

• For a closure sew-in, you typically need 2 to 3 bundles to complete the look.
• If opting for longer hair (20 inches or more), 3 bundles are recommended to ensure full coverage and thickness.

Advantages:

• Provides full protection for your natural hair with no exposure.
• Creates a natural-looking part and is easier to maintain than a frontal.
• Ideal for beginners or anyone who prefers lower maintenance extensions.

Considerations:

• Since the closure only covers a small area on the crown, the rest of the hair must be sewn carefully for an even, seamless appearance.
• Matching the color and texture of the closure with the bundles is crucial for the most natural finish.
  

Best For:

• Those who want to fully protect their natural hair while enjoying a natural-looking part without frequent upkeep.

Sew In with Lace Frontal

A lace frontal sew in uses a larger lace piece (usually 13×4 or 13×6 inches) that covers the entire front hairline from ear to ear. This provides a natural-looking hairline and allows for versatile styling options, such as middle or side parts, and the ability to wear your hair away from the face.

Bundles Needed:

• Typically, 3 to 4 bundles are needed to complete a lace frontal sew in, depending on the length and fullness desired.
• For longer lengths (20 inches or more), 4 bundles help maintain a full, voluminous look.

Advantages:

• Offers a natural, seamless hairline that mimics real hair growth.
• Allows for versatile styling, including high ponytails and various partings.
• Covers a larger area than a closure, giving a more natural finish along the entire front.

Considerations:

• Requires careful installation to blend the lace frontal with your natural scalp.
• Regular maintenance is needed to keep the lace looking invisible and the hair healthy.
• Because it covers a wider area, lace frontals usually cost more and require more skill to install.
  

Best For:

• Those who want maximum styling versatility and a natural hairline without exposing their natural edges.

Tips for Buying the Right Bundles

Choosing the right number of bundles for your sew in hair extensions can make a big difference in achieving the perfect look. Here are some helpful tips to guide you:

Consider Your Hair Length and Desired Volume: Longer hair usually requires more bundles to maintain fullness. For example, 14-16 inch hair might only need 2 bundles, while 20 inches or longer often requires 3 or more.

Know Your Sew In Style: Different sew in styles require different amounts of hair. Traditional sew-ins may need more bundles, while styles like vixen or versatile sew-ins can use fewer bundles due to exposed natural hair.

Think About Your Natural Hair Thickness: If you have thick hair, you may need more bundles to blend seamlessly. For fine or thin hair, fewer bundles might be better to avoid an overly bulky look.

Consult Your Stylist: Your stylist’s experience is invaluable. They can help determine the perfect number of bundles based on your hair texture, scalp condition, and style preferences.

Budget Wisely: Remember that buying more bundles increases the cost, so plan your budget accordingly. Quality over quantity is key to avoid frequent replacements.

Consider Maintenance: More bundles mean more upkeep. Be prepared to maintain your extensions properly to keep them looking fresh and lasting longer.

Choose High-Quality Hair: Investing in good-quality hair bundles will make your sew in look more natural and last longer. If you’re looking for premium, smooth, and durable hair, Govihair is a trusted choice with over 20 years of experience supplying 100% natural Vietnamese hair. Choose Govihair for beautiful, natural-looking, and long-lasting sew in hair.

If you have any questions or wish to place an order, you can easily get in touch with Govihair through the following methods:

• WhatsApp: (+84) 795 746 986
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: govihair.com
• Instagram: @govihair_factory
• Facebook: Govihair – Vietnamese Hair Factory

Conclusion

When it comes to how many bundles for a sew in, the answer depends on the look you want, your hair length, and the style you’re aiming for. On average, most people need 2 to 3 bundles for shorter lengths and 3 to 4 bundles for longer lengths to achieve a full, natural look. If you love extra volume or plan to go beyond 24 inches, adding an extra bundle is always a good idea.

The key is to balance fullness with comfort, making sure your sew-in looks natural while still feeling lightweight. By choosing high-quality hair bundles and the right number for your style, you’ll get a flawless sew-in that lasts and enhances your overall look.