Sisterlocks - Study & Know Thy Self

There's been a recent Lock-It-Up thread with people complaining about their Sisterlocks installs and/or consultants. It serves as a good learning tool for newbies and those contemplating locking. Of course, I shared my opinion, expanded here along with photos for my readers.

"I've only had my locs for about 5 days. My hair was 3-4 inches in length. I had a trainee do my hair and it took her apprx 30 hours (not including the breaks) and I don't think that's normal.

The average from what I've seen is 15-20 hours. I think it took her so long because she made them so tiny, I don'tknow how many I have, I got tired of counting at 200 from just the sides and a portion of the top. If I can guess I probably have between 600-800 in my head but they are super thin.
As for price, I paid what I considered to be the average around here, but I thought trainees charged less, obviously not in my case.

As for me liking my hair, honestly after the 2nd day I started freaking out not liking the loose ends and there were holes in my locks where they were not installed tightly I guess. Just being hypercritical and over analyzing. But after talking with a couple of SL ladies... I've calmed down and learned to accept my hair. If I had it to do over again, I would have researched better than what I did by getting references from actual clients other than just looking at pics and demanded she use the correct tools in doing my hair."
Blaq's Response
Try not to fret too much. I've been reading all of the threads on Lock-It-Up about misrepresented locks. But give them a chance AND your consultant. It's only been five days. Your hair is going to change so much and so quickly...Take that energy and educate yourself. Read blogs, look at photos. Go to my blog and click on the 2005 link on the left and view my early photos. You'll see how rapidly your locks will change.

BlaqKofi Sisterocked 2 days/2 weeks


And don't micro examine every lock - cause I can assure you, not everyone of mine is 100% perfect and my consultant has over 15 years in the business. When hair locks it begins to intertwine around itself. The hair that used to come out in our combs and brushes begins to encircle itself in a cylinder form - thus locking. It's not a perfect cylinder - how could it be? It's a bunch of individual hairs - thus individual locks.

Regarding discounts, Trainees MAY offer an introductory price for new clients, but it's NOT a requirement. I offer an introductory price for my first three clients, for entrusting me and my skills and for helping me to become certified. I explain thoroughly during my consultations that they in return will get a quality product, but it's going to take a time commitment.

My first installation took 24+ hours, she had 6 inches of hair and we only stopped for a 30 minute lunch. I was really questioning myself - comparing myself to others who had done this many years more than me. I spoke to several consultants who reassured me that my install time was not very different and even less in some cases than others and my speed would increase given time. (I'm currently averaging about 18 hours depending on hair length, density, etc.)  I'm proud when I see the work I produced and my client's happy face. Besides, she's my walking, talking advertisement. Accuracy and a quality product were more important than speed. My speed, I can work on; but you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. Her Sisterlocks had to be correct.


1st Client day 1/3 wks later
Taking breaks is important for a quality product. Your consultant is usually standing on her feet the entire time. If she's tired, you'll get a tired looking product. That's why I always schedule my clients over a two-day period.

I looked at your photos and your grids and the number of locks appear to be in line with what is taught in the Consultant's class. Your locks well swell to 100% of their current size, so naturally they are small. That's a primary Sisterlocks characteristic which allows you more styling flexibility.


Finally, the ends of your locks are not suppossed to be locked during installation. They'll turn into cute curly ques initially, then evolve into little balls which will eventually drop off and the ends will seal. That's all part of the locking process which takes time and patience. Four years later, I still have some unlocked ends.

I say be observant, be informed, be educated about your hair and Sisterlocks. Don't be hesitant to discuss your concerns with your Consultant. Perhaps she can alleviate your anxiety and repair any locks you have concerns with. This also lets her know that you're educated about the process and she may up her game, if that's the case.

Until then sit back and chill. Remember why you chose to lock in the first place. And relish how good your head of natural hair feels.

I like the response Tonita posted on LockItUp to someone complaining about their locks not "being perfect."

"I have been SL'd for over 2 years. My locks are not perfect nor did I think they would be since my hair isn't perfect. Like most with locks they have bumps, knots, thin and thick spots, etc., etc. Overall, you can't tell, the imperfections are hidden.

Your locks will swell and settle and you may wonder why was I so distraught? Locks aren't perms or weaves or wigs that look "perfect" out of the chair. Locks mature over time. The first change is convenience, the second is settling, the third is growth and more change.

If you decide to get locks, do your research. What will my new locks look like? What is the locking and retightening process? Can I love my nappy hair? Do I have the PATIENCE to lock?

Don't get caught up in lock envy. Love your locks at every stage. They will grow into the head of beautiful locks that initially caught your attention."
Dont' get it twisted. Sisterlocks aren't perfect, they're not supposed to be. Do your part - study and know thy self then watch your locks grow charactistically and uniquely into you. Natural Awakenings...

(Click photos for greater detail).