Starting My DIY Microlocs Journey: Why I Chose Interlocking and How I Began
- queeneleem
- Mar 27
- 4 min read
I’m Queen Eleem and here I describe how I self-installed my DIY microlocs installation using the interlock method on January 5, 2020.
I’ll walk you through:
My process
The tools I’m using
My reasons for choosing interlocking over other starter loc methods
How I’m preparing for this big commitment
Why I Chose the Interlock Method for Installing My Microlocs
I get a lot of questions about why I chose interlocking over methods like braiding or twisting, and I have five main reasons:
Pattern Disappears Quickly: Unlike braids, which can leave a visible pattern in your locs for months or even years, interlocks lose the pattern more quickly.
Less Slippage: Interlocks are less prone to slippage compared to two-strand twists, making them better suited for maintaining a secure style.
Durability for Frequent Washing: Since I exercise throughout the week, I wash my hair often. Interlocks hold up better with frequent washing, which I plan to do once or twice a week.
No Extra Products Needed: I have sensitive skin and prefer to avoid extra products. With interlocking, I don’t need to use additional hair products, which helps prevent skin breakouts.
Uniform, Cylindrical Look: Interlocks create a mature, cylindrical shape that I find appealing and polished.
Tools I’m Using
For anyone starting DIY microlocs, here’s a list of the essential tools I’m using:
Three-Way Mirror: Essential for seeing the back of my head and ensuring my parts are precise. I got a barber’s mirror and a hook arm for around $36.
Rat Tail Comb and Clips: These help with parting and keeping hair sections in place.
Locking Tool: I made my own plastic yarn needle with a bent tip, which prevents snagging. I also tried a couple of interlocking tools from Amazon but found my DIY tool works best.
DIY Lock Sizing Tool: I created this using myself, laminated it, and marked different sizes to keep my locs consistent.
Using these tools, I’m aiming to keep my locs around 3/8 of an inch, with my largest locs just under half an inch.
Parting Method and Sizing
The parting process was crucial for me, especially since I have a large head surface area (about 210 square inches). I plan to have around 560 locs, and to keep my locs organized and uniform, I used a few important parting lines:
Center Line: Runs down the middle of my head.
Over-the-Ear Line: Goes from one ear to the other over the crown.
Occipital Line: Above the ears, going around to the back.
With these anchor lines, I mapped out sections that gradually increase in size as they move toward the back of my head. For example:
Front: 1 inch wide, divided into four smaller locks (1/4 inch each).
Middle: 1.5 inches wide, divided into four locks (3/8 inch each).
Back: Up to 2 inches wide for the largest locs (just under half an inch each).
This approach helps maintain a balanced look as my locs gradually increase in size from front to back. Let me know if you’d like a video that dives deeper into my parting method!
My DIY Micro Loc Installation Process
To install each loc, I use the four-point rotation (great for type 4 hair):
Start at 9 o’clock, threading through horizontally.
Go to 6 o’clock, threading through vertically.
Go to 3 o’clock, threading through horizontally.
Finish at 12 o’clock, threading through vertically to complete one rotation.
For type 3 hair, a three-point rotation can work well, following a similar pattern but only using three directions.
After completing a few sections, I’ll show you how I section each part and do the interlocking from start to finish.
Timeline and Goals
I’m aiming to complete my microlocs 18 days from now. I have 40 sections to complete and each loc takes around 15 minutes. So, with about 140-160 hours of work ahead, I may need to pull a few long days, but I’m excited to get this done!
Step-By-Step Installation Demonstration
Starting a Lock: I begin by taking down a pre-sectioned braid and splitting it in half.
First Rotation: After splitting, I use the four-point rotation to begin interlocking.
Finishing Touches: As I work up the braid, I twist the end before pulling it through for a smooth finish.
Using the Tool: When I get close to the root (about 2-3 fingers away), I switch to my interlocking tool to complete the process.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for joining me on this journey! I hope this gives you a clear idea of how to start microlocs with the interlocking method. I’m so excited to share this process and help others who might be considering DIY microlocs as a way to achieve freedom and ease with their natural hair.
For those considering installing microlocs on their own, rest assured that you've come to the right place! As it is my mission to increase knowledge and accessibility of this hairstyle for every person with African Heritage and kinky hair!
With adequate knowledge, tools, attention, and care, microlocs can be an ideal choice for anyone looking for a unique and personalized hairstyle that is both fashionable and easy to maintain.
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