How Many Rows Will I Need? (Genius Weft & Handtied Weft)

If you've ever sat in a salon chair wondering how many rows of hair extensions you actually need, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions clients ask when choosing between genius weft and handtied weft extensions—and honestly, it’s a smart one to ask. Because the number of rows you get can totally affect how natural your hair looks, how it feels, and how much you end up paying.

So let’s break it down together. Whether you're aiming for length, volume, or a little bit of both, here’s what you need to know.

First, What’s a “Row” Anyway?

A row is essentially one horizontal section where wefts are applied. Think of it as the foundation layer. Stylists typically create rows using a beaded track (or braid, in some methods), and then sew in one or more wefts on top of that track.

You might get:

  • A single row for fullness

  • Two rows for volume plus moderate length

  • Three rows for major transformation

But the method you choose—genius weft or handtied—will influence how many wefts each row can comfortably hold and how thick the result will be.

Genius Weft: Minimal Bulk, Maximum Flexibility

Genius wefts are ultra-thin, seamless, and customizable. They're cuttable with no unraveling, and the seam lies flatter than pretty much anything else out there.

So how many rows do you need?

  • For volume only: 1 row with 2-3 genius wefts

  • For volume + length: 2 rows with 3-4 wefts per row

  • For full transformation (major length + density): 3 rows with 3-4 wefts each

Because genius wefts are so thin, you can layer more wefts on one row without bulk. That means fewer rows overall—and a more comfortable, flexible wear for your client or yourself.

Perfect for: Fine hair, sensitive scalps, people who want to avoid heavy installs

Handtied Weft: Lightweight with Built-In Craftsmanship

Handtied wefts are pre-stitched by hand, meaning they’re lightweight but not cuttable. You’ll need to stack several narrow wefts across each row to get full coverage.

How many rows should you plan for?

  • For volume only: 1 row with 3-5 handtied wefts

  • For length + volume: 2 rows with 4-6 wefts each

  • For full hair transformation: 3 rows with 5-6 wefts each

Since handtied wefts can’t be cut, placement requires more finesse and may take slightly longer to install. But the results are worth it—natural movement, long wear, and a super-light finish.

Perfect for: Medium to thick hair types, custom color blending, and detailed installs

What Influences the Number of Rows You’ll Need?

Hair goals. Always start there.

If someone just wants to add volume to thinning ends, they may only need one row. But if the goal is mermaid hair? You’re going to need two or three rows to balance the weight and length properly.

Other factors:

  • Head size and shape – Larger heads need more coverage

  • Natural hair thickness – Thicker natural hair needs more wefts to blend seamlessly

  • Desired fullness – Some love subtle enhancement, others want the full glam

  • Budget and time – More rows mean more wefts, and yes, more salon hours

Always consult your stylist or clients thoroughly—no guessing games here.

Pro Tip: Mix and Match for Best Results

Yes, you can mix genius and handtied wefts in the same install. Genius wefts at the nape offer flat, flexible wear, while handtied wefts at the crown give added volume and color dimension.

Stylists love this combo because it offers structure where needed and softness where it matters most.

Final Word: Let the Hair Goals Decide

Whether you choose genius wefts or handtied wefts, the number of rows you need should always come down to lifestyle, density goals, and hair health—not just trends. There's no shame in starting with one row and adding more later. The beauty of modern weft extensions is their flexibility—and their ability to grow with you.

So next time you're wondering how many rows to book in your install, just think: what do I want my hair to feel like? Then build from there.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get by with just one row of wefts?
Yes, if you’re only looking for volume and already have decent length. One row with 2-4 wefts can do wonders.

2. Is it okay to mix genius weft and handtied in one head?
Absolutely. Many stylists use genius for the bottom rows (for flexibility) and handtied on top (for color and lift).

3. Do more rows mean better results?
Not necessarily. It’s more about how many wefts and the quality of placement. Two perfectly placed rows often beat three bulky ones.

4. Will genius weft feel lighter than handtied?
Yes. Genius wefts have a flatter seam and are often described as more comfortable, especially for fine-haired clients.

5. Can I change the number of rows during maintenance?
Definitely. You can add or remove rows based on your current needs—great for seasonal changes or evolving styles.

Let me know if you'd like this turned into a consultation sheet or printable client guide next. Also, moving forward, I’ll include 1 featured image + 1 in-post image for every blog post you request.

If you've ever sat in a salon chair wondering how many rows of hair extensions you actually need, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions clients ask when choosing between genius weft and handtied weft extensions—and honestly, it’s a smart one to ask. Because the number of rows you get can totally affect how natural your hair looks, how it feels, and how much you end up paying.

So let’s break it down together. Whether you're aiming for length, volume, or a little bit of both, here’s what you need to know.

First, What’s a “Row” Anyway?

A row is essentially one horizontal section where wefts are applied. Think of it as the foundation layer. Stylists typically create rows using a beaded track (or braid, in some methods), and then sew in one or more wefts on top of that track.

You might get:

  • A single row for fullness

  • Two rows for volume plus moderate length

  • Three rows for major transformation

But the method you choose—genius weft or handtied—will influence how many wefts each row can comfortably hold and how thick the result will be.

Genius Weft: Minimal Bulk, Maximum Flexibility

Genius wefts are ultra-thin, seamless, and customizable. They're cuttable with no unraveling, and the seam lies flatter than pretty much anything else out there.

So how many rows do you need?

  • For volume only: 1 row with 2-3 genius wefts

  • For volume + length: 2 rows with 3-4 wefts per row

  • For full transformation (major length + density): 3 rows with 3-4 wefts each

Because genius wefts are so thin, you can layer more wefts on one row without bulk. That means fewer rows overall—and a more comfortable, flexible wear for your client or yourself.

Perfect for: Fine hair, sensitive scalps, people who want to avoid heavy installs

Handtied Weft: Lightweight with Built-In Craftsmanship

Handtied wefts are pre-stitched by hand, meaning they’re lightweight but not cuttable. You’ll need to stack several narrow wefts across each row to get full coverage.

How many rows should you plan for?

  • For volume only: 1 row with 3-5 handtied wefts

  • For length + volume: 2 rows with 4-6 wefts each

  • For full hair transformation: 3 rows with 5-6 wefts each

Since handtied wefts can’t be cut, placement requires more finesse and may take slightly longer to install. But the results are worth it—natural movement, long wear, and a super-light finish.

Perfect for: Medium to thick hair types, custom color blending, and detailed installs

What Influences the Number of Rows You’ll Need?

Hair goals. Always start there.

If someone just wants to add volume to thinning ends, they may only need one row. But if the goal is mermaid hair? You’re going to need two or three rows to balance the weight and length properly.

Other factors:

  • Head size and shape – Larger heads need more coverage

  • Natural hair thickness – Thicker natural hair needs more wefts to blend seamlessly

  • Desired fullness – Some love subtle enhancement, others want the full glam

  • Budget and time – More rows mean more wefts, and yes, more salon hours

Always consult your stylist or clients thoroughly—no guessing games here.

Pro Tip: Mix and Match for Best Results

Yes, you can mix genius and handtied wefts in the same install. Genius wefts at the nape offer flat, flexible wear, while handtied wefts at the crown give added volume and color dimension.

Stylists love this combo because it offers structure where needed and softness where it matters most.

Final Word: Let the Hair Goals Decide

Whether you choose genius wefts or handtied wefts, the number of rows you need should always come down to lifestyle, density goals, and hair health—not just trends. There's no shame in starting with one row and adding more later. The beauty of modern weft extensions is their flexibility—and their ability to grow with you.

So next time you're wondering how many rows to book in your install, just think: what do I want my hair to feel like? Then build from there.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get by with just one row of wefts?
Yes, if you’re only looking for volume and already have decent length. One row with 2-4 wefts can do wonders.

2. Is it okay to mix genius weft and handtied in one head?
Absolutely. Many stylists use genius for the bottom rows (for flexibility) and handtied on top (for color and lift).

3. Do more rows mean better results?
Not necessarily. It’s more about how many wefts and the quality of placement. Two perfectly placed rows often beat three bulky ones.

4. Will genius weft feel lighter than handtied?
Yes. Genius wefts have a flatter seam and are often described as more comfortable, especially for fine-haired clients.

5. Can I change the number of rows during maintenance?
Definitely. You can add or remove rows based on your current needs—great for seasonal changes or evolving styles.