Are you looking for a chic and versatile haircut that flatters any face shape? Look no further than the long bob, or “lob,” an effortlessly stylish cut that combines the length of a long hairstyle with the edgy sophistication of a bob. Whether you’re craving a change or simply want to enhance your current style, cutting a lob at home is a surprisingly achievable task. With a few essential tools and a step-by-step guide, you can master the art of creating this timeless haircut in the comfort of your own home.
Before embarking on your lobbing journey, ensure you have the necessary tools for the job. A sharp pair of hair shears, a comb, a hairbrush, and sectioning clips are essential. Additionally, a spray bottle filled with water can help keep your hair manageable throughout the cutting process. Once you have gathered your supplies, it’s time to prepare your hair. Start by washing and conditioning your hair as usual. Towel-dry your hair until it’s damp but not soaking wet. This will make it easier to cut and style your hair.
Next, it’s time to section your hair. Using the sectioning clips, divide your hair into four sections: two in the front and two in the back. Secure the sections with the clips to keep them out of the way while you work. Starting with the back sections, comb your hair straight down and hold it taut with your non-dominant hand. Use your dominant hand to guide the shears parallel to your hair and cut in a straight line. Continue cutting until you reach your desired length. Repeat this process on the other back section. Finally, release the front sections and cut them to match the length of the back sections. Use a point-cutting technique to create a soft, blended finish. And voila! You’ve successfully cut a beautiful long bob at home.
Preparations: Tools and Materials
Before embarking on your long bob (lob) cutting adventure, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials to ensure a seamless and successful process. Here’s a comprehensive list to get you started:
Tools:
- Sharp scissors: Invest in a pair of high-quality, sharp scissors specifically designed for hair cutting. Avoid using kitchen scissors or nail clippers, as they can damage your hair.
- Wide-tooth comb: This comb helps detangle and distribute your hair evenly, making it easier to section and cut.
- Clippers (optional): Clippers can be used to pre-cut larger sections of hair, making the process faster and more efficient.
- Extension cord (optional): Ensure your clippers or hair dryer have sufficient reach by using an extension cord if necessary.
- Spray bottle: A spray bottle filled with water will help keep your hair damp and pliable during the cutting process.
Materials:
In addition to the tools, you’ll need the following materials:
- Hair clips or bobby pins: Section your hair into manageable sections using hair clips or bobby pins.
- Barrette: When not cutting a specific section, secure it with a barrette to keep it out of the way.
- Cape or towel: Protect your clothing and surroundings from stray hair by draping a cape or towel over your shoulders.
- Hair dryer (optional): A hair dryer can be used to accelerate the drying process after cutting.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp scissors | Cutting hair |
| Wide-tooth comb | Detangling and distributing hair |
| Clippers (optional) | Pre-cutting large sections of hair |
| Extension cord (optional) | Providing sufficient reach for clippers or hair dryer |
| Spray bottle | Keeping hair damp and pliable |
| Hair clips or bobby pins | Sectioning hair |
| Barrette | Securing sections of hair not being cut |
| Cape or towel | Protecting clothing and surroundings from hair |
| Hair dryer (optional) | Accelerating drying process |
Sectioning the Hair
1. Determine the partings: Divide the hair into four sections using horizontal and vertical partings. Create a center vertical parting, followed by a horizontal parting at the crown of the head. This will create two front sections and two back sections.
2. Create the guide sections:
a) Front guide section: Select a small section of hair from the front right corner, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Comb this section forward and hold it straight up at a 90-degree angle from the head. This will establish the length and angle of the front of the bob.
b) Back guide section: Choose a small section of hair from the back right corner, directly behind the front guide section. Comb this section straight down and hold it parallel to the neck. This will determine the length and angle of the back of the bob.
c) Determine the angle: Determine the desired angle of the bob by tilting the guide sections either forward (for a more angled bob) or backward (for a more blunt bob). The angle will vary depending on the client’s face shape and personal preferences.
d) Secure the guide sections: Clip or hold the guide sections in place to prevent them from moving during the cutting process.
| Guide Section | Position | Angle |
|---|---|---|
| Front | Front right corner | 90-degree angle |
| Back | Back right corner | Parallel to neck |
Creating the Base Angle
Establishing the base angle is a crucial step in creating a flawless long bob. It defines the overall length and angle of the haircut.
- Determine the desired length: Assess the client’s hair texture, face shape, and personal preferences to determine the ideal length for the long bob.
- Section the hair into quadrants: Part the hair into four equal quadrants – a vertical part from the crown to the nape, and a horizontal part connecting the ears.
- Identify the longest vertical quadrant: Determine which vertical quadrant will serve as the guide for the base angle. This is typically the quadrant opposite the client’s part or the side with the thicker hair.
- Isolate the guide quadrant: Clip up three quadrants and leave only the guide quadrant down. Comb through the hair to remove any tangles or knots.
- Establish the initial cut: With a sharp pair of scissors, take a diagonal sectioning parallel to the natural growth pattern starting from either the crown or the nape, depending on the desired angle.
- Check the angle: Hold the scissors at the desired angle relative to the head and cut through the hair. Check the angle by combing through the hair and observing the line of cut.
- Repeat for the other side: Release the guide quadrant, clip it up, and repeat the process on the opposite side of the head to create a balanced base angle.
Cutting the Interior Sections
The interior sections of the long bob, also known as the “interior length,” frame the face and create the overall shape of the haircut. To ensure even and symmetrical results, it’s crucial to section the hair into smaller parts and work methodically.
Divide the hair into two equal sections, from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck. Create a vertical parting down the center of the head, then comb the hair on each side over the opposite shoulder.
Subdivide each of the two main sections into three smaller sections. Take a horizontal parting from the highest point of the head, near the crown, to the back of the head. This creates the “top” section. Take another horizontal parting from the back of the top section to the nape of the neck, creating the “middle” section. The remaining hair below the middle section is the “bottom” section.
Start by cutting the middle section. Comb the hair straight down and guide scissors along the desired length, cutting horizontally from the nape of the neck upwards. Use your fingers as a guide to maintain evenness. Once the middle section is cut, comb the hair downwards and use it as a guide to cut the bottom section to the same length.
For the top section, comb the hair downwards and cut it to a slightly shorter length than the middle and bottom sections. This creates a gentle graduation in length, which helps to frame the face and add texture to the haircut.
| Section | Length |
|---|---|
| Top | Slightly shorter than middle and bottom sections |
| Middle | Desired length |
| Bottom | Same length as middle section |
Connecting the Base and Interior Sections
Once you have cut the base section, it’s time to connect it to the interior sections. This will create the overall shape of the bob.
To do this, start by combing the hair from the base section forward. Then, take a small section of hair from the interior section and comb it back towards the base section. Overlap the two sections and use your scissors to cut a diagonal line that connects them. Repeat this process until all of the interior sections are connected to the base section.
When connecting the base and interior sections, it’s important to keep in mind the desired length and angle of the bob. If you want a shorter bob, cut the diagonal lines at a steeper angle. If you want a longer bob, cut the diagonal lines at a more gradual angle.
Here is a table that summarizes the steps for connecting the base and interior sections:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Comb the hair from the base section forward. |
| 2 | Take a small section of hair from the interior section and comb it back towards the base section. |
| 3 | Overlap the two sections and use your scissors to cut a diagonal line that connects them. |
| 4 | Repeat this process until all of the interior sections are connected to the base section. |
Refining the Length and Shape
Section 1: Establishing a Center Guide
Using a long, thin comb, align the teeth precisely along the center of the head, creating a vertical part from the forehead to the nape. This center guide will serve as the axis for the subsequent cuts.
Section 2: Defining the Front Section
Take a small section of hair from the front of the head, approximately 2-3 inches wide. Divide it into two equal parts and hold them taut between your fingers. Using sharp scissors, cut the hair on a diagonal, angling it slightly towards the center guide.
Section 3: Cutting the Back Section
Divide the remaining hair at the back into two equal sections. Hold one section taut and cut it on a diagonal, again angling it towards the center guide. Repeat for the other section, ensuring that both sides match in length and shape.
Section 4: Connecting the Sections
Once the front and back sections are cut, use a razor comb and scissors to smooth any transitions and blend the sections seamlessly. Hold the razor comb at a 45-degree angle and gently slice the hair, removing any visible lines.
Section 5: Refining the Texture
Use a deep point-cutting technique to add texture and movement to the long bob. Angle the scissors at a steep angle and cut into the hair, varying the depth and frequency of the cuts to create a natural, layered effect.
Section 6: Graduating the Length
To achieve a graduated long bob, use a slightly different cutting technique. Divide the hair into sections of varying lengths, with the shortest layers at the back and longest layers at the front. Cut each section on a diagonal, creating a soft gradient that transitions from short to long. This technique adds volume and shape to the hair.
| Section | Cutting Angle | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Front | Diagonal, towards the center guide | Length and shape |
| Back | Diagonal, towards the center guide | Length and shape |
| Graduation | Diagonal, varying lengths | Volume and shape |
How To Cut A Long Bob
Layering for Texture and Movement
Layering is a great way to add texture and movement to your long bob. It can also help to reduce the weight of the hair, making it easier to style.
When cutting layers, it is important to start with the bottom layer and work your way up. This will help to create a smooth, blended look.
To cut a layer, hold the hair out from the head and cut it at a slight angle. The angle of the cut will determine the length of the layer.
Once you have cut the bottom layer, you can begin to cut the remaining layers. The length of each layer should be determined by the desired look.
For a more dramatic look, you can cut the layers shorter. For a more subtle look, you can cut the layers longer.
Here is a table that summarizes the different types of layers that you can cut:
| Layer Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Blunt layers | Layers that are cut straight across |
| Graduated layers | Layers that are cut at a slight angle |
| Point layers | Layers that are cut to a point |
Once you have cut the layers, you can use a razor or thinning shears to remove any excess weight and create a more blended look.
Blending and Refining
Once the basic long bob shape is established, you can blend and refine the cut for a more polished and customized look.
Blending the Section
Use a pair of blending shears or a razor comb to soften the transition between the shorter and longer layers. Hold the shears parallel to the hair and gently run them through the layers, blending the ends to create a smooth, seamless look.
Creating Texture
To add texture and movement to the long bob, consider using a texturizing technique such as point cutting or slicing. Point cutting involves holding the scissors diagonally and cutting into the hair at an angle, creating texture and movement. Slicing involves holding the scissors vertically and cutting the hair in a downward motion, creating a jagged or feathered effect.
Adding Layers
Adding layers to a long bob can add volume and dimension. Create layers by sectioning the hair into horizontal sections and cutting the hair at different lengths within each section. The length and angle of the layers can be adjusted to create a specific style or enhance the natural texture of the hair.
Creating A-Line Shape
For an A-line long bob, cut the hair shorter in the back and gradually longer towards the front. This creates a triangular shape that flatters a wide range of face shapes and hair textures.
Shaping the Fringe
If desired, add a fringe or bangs to the long bob. Section off the fringe area and cut the hair to the desired length and shape. Be sure to blend the fringe with the rest of the hair for a seamless transition.
Polishing the Cut
Once all the blending, refining, and styling techniques have been applied, use a fine-toothed comb and sharp scissors to clean up any stray hairs or uneven ends. This final polishing step ensures a precise and professional-looking cut.
Styling the Bob
The lob is a versatile hairstyle that can be styled in a variety of ways to suit your individual face shape and personality. Here are a few tips on how to style a lob:
1. Straight and sleek: This is a classic look that never goes out of style. To achieve this look, blow dry your hair straight and use a flat iron to smooth out any frizz or flyaways.
2. Waves: Waves can add volume and movement to a lob. To create waves, use a curling iron or a wand to curl small sections of hair. You can then brush through the curls to create a more natural look.
3. Beachy waves: This is a more relaxed version of waves that is perfect for summer. To create beachy waves, spray your hair with a sea salt spray and then scrunch it up with your hands.
4. Braids: Braids can add a touch of interest to a lob. There are many different types of braids that you can try, such as French braids, Dutch braids, and fishtail braids.
5. Ponytails: Ponytails are a great way to pull your hair back and out of your face. To create a ponytail, simply gather your hair at the nape of your neck and tie it with a hair tie.
6. Buns: Buns are another great way to pull your hair back. To create a bun, gather your hair at the crown of your head and twist it into a bun. You can then secure the bun with bobby pins.
7. Top knots: Top knots are a messy bun that is worn on the top of the head. To create a top knot, gather your hair at the top of your head and twist it into a bun. You can then secure the bun with bobby pins.
8. Headbands: Headbands can add a touch of style to a lob. You can wear a headband in a variety of ways, such as around your forehead, around your hairline, or even over your head.
9. Hair accessories: Hair accessories can add a touch of sparkle or glamour to a lob. You can use a variety of hair accessories, such as hair clips, barrettes, and headbands.
| Bob Type | Face Shape |
|---|---|
| Asymmetrical Bob | Oval, Square, Round |
| Blunt Bob | Oval, Square |
| Choppy Bob | Round, Square |
| Long Bob | Oval, Square, Round |
| Textured Bob | Oval, Square, Round |
| Undercut Bob | Oval, Square |
Preparation
Before you start cutting, gather the necessary tools: a sharp pair of hair shears, a fine-tooth comb, a spray bottle filled with water, a towel, and hair clips or hair ties. Wash and condition your hair, then towel dry it to remove excess moisture. Comb your hair to remove any tangles or knots.
Tips for Maintenance and Styling
Styling
Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add body and fullness to your lob. Blow dry your hair with a round brush to create volume at the roots and smooth the ends. You can also use a curling iron or flat iron to style your lob as desired.
Maintenance
Trim your lob every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and maintain its shape. Wash and condition your hair regularly, using products designed for your hair type. Avoid using harsh hair treatments that can damage your hair.
Hair Mask Treatment
Deep condition your lob once a week with a hair mask treatment. Choose a mask that is tailored to your hair type and needs. Leave the mask on for the specified amount of time, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. This will help replenish moisture and restore your hair’s health and shine.
Styling Products
Use styling products to enhance the appearance of your lob. A mousse can add volume and body, while a pomade can help define and smooth your hair. Experiment with different products to find the ones that work best for you.
Avoid Heat Styling
Minimize the use of heat styling tools. When you do use heat, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair to minimize damage. Air drying your hair is a gentler option that will help preserve its health.
Embrace Natural Waves
If your hair is naturally wavy, embrace the texture and style it accordingly. Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to define your waves and reduce frizz. You can also use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to enhance your natural curls.
Protect from Sun Damage
Protect your hair from sun damage by wearing a hat when you’re outdoors. UV rays can damage your hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, and faded. A hat will help shield your hair from the sun’s harmful effects.
Follow a Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a role in the health of your hair. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. These nutrients will help nourish your hair from the inside out.
Brush Regularly
Regular brushing helps distribute your hair’s natural oils, keeping it healthy and shiny. Brush your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. This will help remove tangles and prevent breakage.
How To Cut A Long Bob
The long bob, or lob, is a versatile haircut that can be styled a variety of ways. It is typically cut to fall just below the shoulders, and can be layered to add volume or texture. The lob is a great choice for women who want a stylish haircut that is easy to care for.
To cut a long bob, you will need:
- Sharp scissors
- Comb
- Clips
- Towel
1. Wash and dry your hair.
2. Comb your hair to remove any knots or tangles.
3. Part your hair down the middle.
4. Clip up the top section of your hair.
5. Comb the bottom section of your hair and cut it to the desired length.
6. Unclip the top section of your hair and comb it.
7. Cut the top section of your hair to the same length as the bottom section.
8. Layer your hair to add volume or texture.
9. Style your lob as desired.
People Also Ask About How To Cut A Long Bob
What is the difference between a lob and a bob?
A lob is a longer version of a bob. It typically falls just below the shoulders, while a bob falls at or above the chin.
How do I style a lob?
A lob can be styled a variety of ways. You can wear it straight, curly, or wavy. You can also add volume or texture by layering your hair.
How often should I get my lob trimmed?
You should get your lob trimmed every 6-8 weeks to keep it looking its best.
