If you are thinking about extensions, two methods come up again and again: beaded weft (sew-in) extensions and K-tip (keratin bond) extensions. Both can give you beautiful length and fullness. The right choice depends on your hair, your lifestyle and the look you want. Here is a simple breakdown from our stylists in Sarasota and St. Pete.
What are beaded weft extensions?
Beaded weft extensions, also called sew-in or beaded row extensions, use small beads to create a secure row along your natural hair. Thin wefts of hair are then sewn onto that row. At Maven & Mane we use micro wefts that can be cut anywhere with no shedding, so your stylist can customize the fit to your head shape.
Beaded wefts are often a great fit if you:
- Want a lot of added volume and length
- Have medium to thick hair
- Like the idea of no heat or glue during your install
- Want to have your extensions moved up and reused at each visit
What are K-tip extensions?
K-tips are small strands of hair with a keratin bond at the top. Each strand is attached to a small section of your natural hair, which lets your stylist place them precisely, strand by strand. We offer smooth K-tips plus wavy and curly K-tips in 100% natural wave and curl patterns.
K-tips are often a great fit if you:
- Have finer hair or want a very natural, blended look
- Want to wear high ponytails and updos
- Have a natural wave or curl you want to match
- Need extra density in a specific area, like around the face
Beaded wefts vs. K-tips at a glance
- Attachment: beaded wefts are sewn onto a bead row; K-tips are bonded strand by strand.
- Best for: beaded wefts suit volume and thicker hair; K-tips suit fine hair, updos and texture matching.
- Install style: beaded wefts use no heat or glue; K-tips use a keratin bond.
- Customization: both can be pre-rooted and balayaged to blend with your color.
How to choose
The best way to decide is a consultation. Your stylist will look at your hair density, your color and how you style your hair day to day, then recommend the method (or combination) that will look the most natural on you. Many of our clients pair extensions with a lived-in blonde or dimensional brunette color service so everything blends seamlessly.
Book a consultation in Sarasota or St. Pete
Our stylists specialize in beaded weft and K-tip extensions at both of our salons. Visit our Sarasota salon or our St. Pete salon to meet the team and book online, or text us at 941-404-5599 (text only).
Are you a licensed stylist? Our micro wefts and K-tips are available to pros. Apply for a pro account.