I'm just a boy with a new haircut (and that's a pretty nice haircut)
September 2, 2009 10:03 AM Subscribe
With today's economy, DIY haircuts are gaining in popularity. Flowbees and electric clipper sales are up. Did you see the drummer's hair?*
I saw this post and immediately thought of the Wayne's World movie.
posted by dortmunder at 10:11 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by dortmunder at 10:11 AM on September 2, 2009
I cut my own hair. And I like Pavement! This post is perfect for me!
Although to be fair I only cut my own hair because I'm damn near bald anyway, at the ripe young age of 28. There's no good reason to pay somebody else $14 or whatever to run a set of electric clippers with a number 2 guard all over the outside of my head. I can do that myself.
posted by penduluum at 10:11 AM on September 2, 2009
Although to be fair I only cut my own hair because I'm damn near bald anyway, at the ripe young age of 28. There's no good reason to pay somebody else $14 or whatever to run a set of electric clippers with a number 2 guard all over the outside of my head. I can do that myself.
posted by penduluum at 10:11 AM on September 2, 2009
This is why I'd rather just not deal with my hair right now. I can get away with that somewhat, having long-ish hair and all. But I used to cut my own hair a few years ago, and it never, ever looked good. Now I have a regular stylist... whom I've been ignoring... but now that her mailed reminder cards have turned into reminder cards *with coupons*, I might go back.
posted by katillathehun at 10:14 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by katillathehun at 10:14 AM on September 2, 2009
Male-pattern baldness is genuinely one of the best things that's happened to me. One nearly maintenance-free hairstyle for life, and a fortune saved in cutting, styling and various soap products.
The second drummer drowned though.
posted by le morte de bea arthur at 10:17 AM on September 2, 2009
The second drummer drowned though.
posted by le morte de bea arthur at 10:17 AM on September 2, 2009
With today's economyseriously stupid haircut prices, DIY haircuts are gaining inhave always been popularity.
posted by DU at 10:19 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by DU at 10:19 AM on September 2, 2009
Yeah, DIY highly recommended. Just about a month ago my girlfriend decided she was sick of her unruly, long hair. So we bought a proper pair of scissors, opened of bottle of wine, sat down at the kitchen table and went to town. One hour later: pixie cut! It was my first haircut, and it was intense. But it was sexy fun, y'all. Everybody should give it a shot.
And don't worry, l.m.d.b.a., they found his telephone.
posted by barrett caulk at 10:28 AM on September 2, 2009
And don't worry, l.m.d.b.a., they found his telephone.
posted by barrett caulk at 10:28 AM on September 2, 2009
Bogus Trend Story of the Week—Recession Causes Home Barbering
posted by The Michael The at 10:29 AM on September 2, 2009 [6 favorites]
posted by The Michael The at 10:29 AM on September 2, 2009 [6 favorites]
I would definitely love to see a trend of media policing its own excesses. Great link, Mr The.
posted by DU at 10:38 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by DU at 10:38 AM on September 2, 2009
My 15-year-old stepson is in the ROTC program at his school and is therefore required to keep a close cropped military cut. He started giving himself haircuts last year to avoid the hassle of constantly going back and forth to the barber, and since he just needs one clipper setting it always looks fine.
He branched out into cutting his 13-year-old brother's hair too to not noticeably bad results. The kid is likely saving me a fortune, since I think both kids are considered "adults" at the barber at this point.
posted by The Gooch at 10:41 AM on September 2, 2009
He branched out into cutting his 13-year-old brother's hair too to not noticeably bad results. The kid is likely saving me a fortune, since I think both kids are considered "adults" at the barber at this point.
posted by The Gooch at 10:41 AM on September 2, 2009
Now I've got another metaphor for extreme stupidity: "You could screw up a haircut with a Flowbee."
Seriously, I've used a Flowbee for years, had a good laugh with a number of people that asked me for the name of the place that cuts my hair, and even after watching that YouTube Flowbee link, I'm skeptical that someone could be that damn stupid, unintentionally. The guides don't "slip off." Those guys are mugging for the YouTube, period.
Admittedly, a Flowbee won't work on very curly or extremely long hair, but for white boys, it's a two minute, perfectly consistent hair cut, any time you want one, for about 1¢ worth of electricity.
posted by paulsc at 10:46 AM on September 2, 2009
Seriously, I've used a Flowbee for years, had a good laugh with a number of people that asked me for the name of the place that cuts my hair, and even after watching that YouTube Flowbee link, I'm skeptical that someone could be that damn stupid, unintentionally. The guides don't "slip off." Those guys are mugging for the YouTube, period.
Admittedly, a Flowbee won't work on very curly or extremely long hair, but for white boys, it's a two minute, perfectly consistent hair cut, any time you want one, for about 1¢ worth of electricity.
posted by paulsc at 10:46 AM on September 2, 2009
Both my fiance and I cut our own hair. His is simple because he is losing his hair. He buzzes all of his (remaining) hair off with clippers. Sometimes I help him but he is very fussy about the whole process!
My hair is medium length (below shoulders). The last time I went to get my hair cut in a salon they jacked up the already ridiculous price $10 more than the time before. In addition my stylist was very late to my appointment, very hungover, and very not interested in cutting my hair. I'd previously only had positive experiences with her before so I was a little shocked. And saddened, as she was my favorite stylist in town. I found her after many, many attempts to find someone at *any* price point that I trusted and liked. :Sigh:
So in December, finding myself desperate for a cut, I went to Sally Beauty and bought a very nice pair of shears for $50. Then, filled with fear and trepidation, I set to work. The results were good enough to put me on and keep me on the DIY hair cut train ever since.
I think back to that first cut and chuckle. I cut off so little it was barely noticeable. I am now much more brave and much more aware of what I need to get the shaping I want. I also have naturally wavy hair so a slightly crooked or uneven cut is hidden with curl. I get tons of compliments at work. No one believes me when I tell them I did it myself.
posted by hecho de la basura at 10:59 AM on September 2, 2009
My hair is medium length (below shoulders). The last time I went to get my hair cut in a salon they jacked up the already ridiculous price $10 more than the time before. In addition my stylist was very late to my appointment, very hungover, and very not interested in cutting my hair. I'd previously only had positive experiences with her before so I was a little shocked. And saddened, as she was my favorite stylist in town. I found her after many, many attempts to find someone at *any* price point that I trusted and liked. :Sigh:
So in December, finding myself desperate for a cut, I went to Sally Beauty and bought a very nice pair of shears for $50. Then, filled with fear and trepidation, I set to work. The results were good enough to put me on and keep me on the DIY hair cut train ever since.
I think back to that first cut and chuckle. I cut off so little it was barely noticeable. I am now much more brave and much more aware of what I need to get the shaping I want. I also have naturally wavy hair so a slightly crooked or uneven cut is hidden with curl. I get tons of compliments at work. No one believes me when I tell them I did it myself.
posted by hecho de la basura at 10:59 AM on September 2, 2009
One hour later: pixie cut! It was my first haircut, and it was intense. But it was sexy fun, y'all.
Pics or it didn't happen.
posted by hermitosis at 11:00 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
Pics or it didn't happen.
posted by hermitosis at 11:00 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
No one believes me when I tell them I did it myself.
I've only ever had a single comment and unfortunately I think it wasn't positive.
Coworker: Does your wife cut your hair?
Me: Yes, it's a lot cheaper.
Coworker: It looks fine.
posted by DU at 11:03 AM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
I've only ever had a single comment and unfortunately I think it wasn't positive.
Coworker: Does your wife cut your hair?
Me: Yes, it's a lot cheaper.
Coworker: It looks fine.
posted by DU at 11:03 AM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
I come from a family of Flowbee users. My dad has been getting Flowbee haircuts for probably twenty years now. My grandparents use one too -- they've made tick marks in the box for each haircut given. Even at Priceclips prices, I'm sure they've saved thousands.
A few months ago my boyfriend bought one. They're closing in.... And, you know, they all look fine. You'd never know. And my boyfriend is psyched that he can take care of his own haircut. Plus it's pretty hilarious...Suck Cut and all.
I cut my own hair, but that's more because I'm lazy than anything else. I'm fearless about it, and am always shocked by the number of, "I couldn't do that" responses I get. Having wavy hair helps, though -- and nothing specific in mind.
posted by another zebra at 11:10 AM on September 2, 2009
A few months ago my boyfriend bought one. They're closing in.... And, you know, they all look fine. You'd never know. And my boyfriend is psyched that he can take care of his own haircut. Plus it's pretty hilarious...Suck Cut and all.
I cut my own hair, but that's more because I'm lazy than anything else. I'm fearless about it, and am always shocked by the number of, "I couldn't do that" responses I get. Having wavy hair helps, though -- and nothing specific in mind.
posted by another zebra at 11:10 AM on September 2, 2009
This is not news. This is validation.
posted by nj_subgenius at 11:19 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by nj_subgenius at 11:19 AM on September 2, 2009
A coworker bought a Flowbee from late night TV. Somehow they convinced him to buy 24 of them and sell them to his friends, family, and coworkers. His office became a free haircut demo zone. The concept is good, and if you worked out a regiment of using numerous tube lengths in a carefully planned sequence, I think you could get excellent results. But just using two tubes, one for the sides and a longer one on top, made everyone look like they were wearing identical toupees.
posted by StickyCarpet at 11:22 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
posted by StickyCarpet at 11:22 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
I went from having really soft hair that people liked to pet to, well, balding at 21. I bought a $20 trimmer 12 years ago, and I haven't paid for a hair cut since. Pendulum, I say, throw down those guards! Every three weeks or so, I take the trimmer, guards off, and buzz everything. The guards are for the facial hair.
posted by Ghidorah at 11:26 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by Ghidorah at 11:26 AM on September 2, 2009
Check your gmail, hermitosis.
posted by barrett caulk at 11:32 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by barrett caulk at 11:32 AM on September 2, 2009
This is not news. This is validation.
I can only imagine how many 20 somethings are shoving this in their parent's face, "SEE? SEE!"
posted by wcfields at 11:33 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
I can only imagine how many 20 somethings are shoving this in their parent's face, "SEE? SEE!"
posted by wcfields at 11:33 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
barret caulk did indeed. beads of sweat and all. i was there. DIY haircut meetup '09.
posted by psylosyren at 11:35 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by psylosyren at 11:35 AM on September 2, 2009
Been doing my own hair for years. Double-mirror for the back takes some dexterity. Started cutting my sons' hair as well. Estimate savings over the last 5 years at about $2K.
This way I can keep smoking cigarettes. ;)
posted by HyperBlue at 11:36 AM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
This way I can keep smoking cigarettes. ;)
posted by HyperBlue at 11:36 AM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
I used to cut my own hair regularly, with great results. Of course, it was almost always a mohawk, which is difficult to mess up too badly.
I've been seriously considering breaking out the clippers again, but I'm a little leery of being the middle-aged-guy-trying-to-relive-his-lost-youth.
But the clippers, oh how they beckon me...
posted by lekvar at 11:46 AM on September 2, 2009
I've been seriously considering breaking out the clippers again, but I'm a little leery of being the middle-aged-guy-trying-to-relive-his-lost-youth.
But the clippers, oh how they beckon me...
posted by lekvar at 11:46 AM on September 2, 2009
I don't even clipper my head anymore. I just shave it once a week while I'm in the shower. It's gotten to the point where I feel like a hippie if I let it go to the point where I need to get out the clippers.
Male pattern baldness sucks for limiting me in my style choices but the time I save getting ready almost makes up for it.
posted by djeo at 11:47 AM on September 2, 2009
Male pattern baldness sucks for limiting me in my style choices but the time I save getting ready almost makes up for it.
posted by djeo at 11:47 AM on September 2, 2009
I've been clippering my own hair for the last ten years or more.
The next set of clippers I buy will be the Oster 76, which will make me feel like Neal Stephenson with a Hole Hawg.
posted by box at 11:51 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
The next set of clippers I buy will be the Oster 76, which will make me feel like Neal Stephenson with a Hole Hawg.
posted by box at 11:51 AM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
Been about 9 years since I paid for a haircut. I started saving even more money when I started washing my hair only once a month or so (daily rinses, yes, but I save the shampoo for when my hair is really dirty).
posted by MrMoonPie at 11:52 AM on September 2, 2009
posted by MrMoonPie at 11:52 AM on September 2, 2009
Back of the head tufts are the only problem I've had so far - couldn't find a mirror. Well, that and the time I hadn't charged it fully and only got half way through.
~Matt
posted by mdoar at 12:00 PM on September 2, 2009
~Matt
posted by mdoar at 12:00 PM on September 2, 2009
OK, I've been thinking about doing this. But I'm scared. I need some suggestions and encouragement, people. I'm definitely much thinner on top than I was 20 years ago, though I don't have any actual bare spots. But looking in the mirror I can see my dome shining through, and I like short hair. Can a clipper do something like an inch-long overall cut?
I might be able to get my wife to wield the clippers, if it helps.
posted by maxwelton at 12:02 PM on September 2, 2009
I might be able to get my wife to wield the clippers, if it helps.
posted by maxwelton at 12:02 PM on September 2, 2009
The only time I cut someone's hair she cried when she saw the result. We're still friends, but I don't cut anyone's hair anymore.
I pay a pro to cut mine because there's a hell-of-a-lot of it, it grows faster than weeds, and it's super thin and fine so every tiny mistake shows.
posted by trip and a half at 12:04 PM on September 2, 2009
I pay a pro to cut mine because there's a hell-of-a-lot of it, it grows faster than weeds, and it's super thin and fine so every tiny mistake shows.
posted by trip and a half at 12:04 PM on September 2, 2009
I cut my own hair occasionally and have recently even braved cutting the back (difficult but not a disaster) and there is one glaring inaccuracy in this article because I have thought many times 'if only I could remove my head I could cut the back of my hair well' but thats NOT the case because I wouldn't be able to see what I was doing!
posted by supermedusa at 12:14 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by supermedusa at 12:14 PM on September 2, 2009
But the clippers, oh how they beckon me...
I know exactly what you mean by this. There is something just really nice about going into the bathroom with a head of unruly hair and walking out twenty minutes later shorn (or mohawkenated).
I'm trying to let my hair grow out for the first time in years, and I'm constantly thinking "Stupid bangs! You go away now!" then, after a few deep breaths, I put the clippers back under the sink and go back to what I was doing.
posted by quin at 12:16 PM on September 2, 2009
I know exactly what you mean by this. There is something just really nice about going into the bathroom with a head of unruly hair and walking out twenty minutes later shorn (or mohawkenated).
I'm trying to let my hair grow out for the first time in years, and I'm constantly thinking "Stupid bangs! You go away now!" then, after a few deep breaths, I put the clippers back under the sink and go back to what I was doing.
posted by quin at 12:16 PM on September 2, 2009
Well, sure, if you're going to some fancy-ass salon or soulless mall chain, you might as well do it at home, but how are you going to recreate the proper barbershop ambiance?
Naugahyde chairs from 1956 (Insert joke about a lot of Naugas dying for those chairshere)
Faded Sports Illustrateds, Field and Stream, and a 1987 Playboy.
Faux wood paneling from the that ill-advised 1970's remodel.
The same old tired jokes you've been hearing since you started coming.
"Did ya see the game last night"?
And to top it all of, a hot foam machine and a straight razor for the edges.
All this for less than $15!
Seriously, though, a good barbershop is something to seek out and become a regular customer.
posted by madajb at 12:23 PM on September 2, 2009 [3 favorites]
Naugahyde chairs from 1956 (Insert joke about a lot of Naugas dying for those chairshere)
Faded Sports Illustrateds, Field and Stream, and a 1987 Playboy.
Faux wood paneling from the that ill-advised 1970's remodel.
The same old tired jokes you've been hearing since you started coming.
"Did ya see the game last night"?
And to top it all of, a hot foam machine and a straight razor for the edges.
All this for less than $15!
Seriously, though, a good barbershop is something to seek out and become a regular customer.
posted by madajb at 12:23 PM on September 2, 2009 [3 favorites]
When you're calculating your hair profits, be sure to subtract for the money you spend on hair-care products and the time you spend maintaining it.
I used to think dreadlocks were the cheapest way to wear one's hair, but, in retrospect, that's completely nuts--buzz-cut's totally where it's at.
posted by box at 12:35 PM on September 2, 2009
I used to think dreadlocks were the cheapest way to wear one's hair, but, in retrospect, that's completely nuts--buzz-cut's totally where it's at.
posted by box at 12:35 PM on September 2, 2009
I haven't paid for a haircut since I was 16.
My sister was in beaty school and needed volunteers to help her practice haircuts. She managed to take a 4 inch square chunk out of the area just behind my ear, because she thought she had the guard on the clippers.
Free. Haircuts. For. Life. and only two weeks of using a make up pencil to fill the area in a bit in order to survive high school. Never another mistake made.
She gets free tech support for life, so it all works out. Also, we use the haircuts as excuses to have dinner together :)
Also, I have a friend who cuts her own hair. And I'm talking dyed streaks, daring angles, bangs... not an easy cut I'm sure. I am sort of in disbelief that her hair is self done, because it looks great.
posted by utsutsu at 12:38 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
My sister was in beaty school and needed volunteers to help her practice haircuts. She managed to take a 4 inch square chunk out of the area just behind my ear, because she thought she had the guard on the clippers.
Free. Haircuts. For. Life. and only two weeks of using a make up pencil to fill the area in a bit in order to survive high school. Never another mistake made.
She gets free tech support for life, so it all works out. Also, we use the haircuts as excuses to have dinner together :)
Also, I have a friend who cuts her own hair. And I'm talking dyed streaks, daring angles, bangs... not an easy cut I'm sure. I am sort of in disbelief that her hair is self done, because it looks great.
posted by utsutsu at 12:38 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
I haven't gotten a professional haircut since I was a kid - why let some stylist have all the fun? I do the best colours, too.
posted by 5_13_23_42_69_666 at 12:38 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by 5_13_23_42_69_666 at 12:38 PM on September 2, 2009
Not to interrupt the populist party, and congrats to those who cut their own hair, but let's not pretend that there's nothing to having a good (pro) hair stylist do your hair. I've had well-meaning friends cut my hair. I've had the "my cousin is really talented, and would love the opportunity to try out this one cut". And then I've had the guy who used to cut Bowie's hair. World. Of. Difference. Sometimes, you really do get what you pay for. It is a skill, people. No use getting all ragey and faux populist about it. Like in any field, talent makes a difference. That said, a lot of so-called pros who charge a lot of dough are just plain incompetent - just like many doctors and lawyers and food handlers. I pay $200 a cut, and it's a steal (his usual charge is much higher), and I pay gladly. Time for a Morrissey song - Hairdresser On Fire:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJdVzc1Jhfc
posted by VikingSword at 1:11 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJdVzc1Jhfc
posted by VikingSword at 1:11 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
I'm glad you enjoy your haircuts, VikingSword, but here's the thing: when it comes to just running a #2 clipper over my entire head, I don't think your dude can do it two hundred times better than I can.
posted by box at 1:28 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
posted by box at 1:28 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
Can a clipper do something like an inch-long overall cut?
maxwelton, I've never seen clippers with longer than 3/4" guards on them. After that, I suppose the hair tends to flop over. It takes several passes for me to get anything over 3/8" even, as it is.
And, yes, your wife can do a better job, because she'll be able to see when she's made enough passes to even out the back.
/ Do my own hair.
// Frequently ask female friends to judge the job, JIC.
/// Lucky so far.
posted by IAmBroom at 1:31 PM on September 2, 2009
maxwelton, I've never seen clippers with longer than 3/4" guards on them. After that, I suppose the hair tends to flop over. It takes several passes for me to get anything over 3/8" even, as it is.
And, yes, your wife can do a better job, because she'll be able to see when she's made enough passes to even out the back.
/ Do my own hair.
// Frequently ask female friends to judge the job, JIC.
/// Lucky so far.
posted by IAmBroom at 1:31 PM on September 2, 2009
"... That said, a lot of so-called pros who charge a lot of dough are just plain incompetent - just like many doctors and lawyers and food handlers. ..."
posted by VikingSword at 4:11 PM on September 2
This.
And that, conversely, is the great thing about a spacer operated system like the Flowbee, VikingSword. After a few cuts, you've worked out, exactly, the progression of spacers and paths you like to cut your own hair, and after that, it takes 2 minutes to exactly repeat the sequence, in the dark, if you like, with a repeatability of ±2 - 3 mm. A stylist who could just do what he did last time to that accuracy would, perhaps, be worth $200 a pop, but most do well to come within 1/2 inch of the same cut, time after time. Many do a lot worse.
Not to mention the whole not needing an appointment, not sitting in waiting chairs, and not getting hustled for overpriced "product," etc. that is part and parcel of the stylist "experience."
posted by paulsc at 1:34 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by VikingSword at 4:11 PM on September 2
This.
And that, conversely, is the great thing about a spacer operated system like the Flowbee, VikingSword. After a few cuts, you've worked out, exactly, the progression of spacers and paths you like to cut your own hair, and after that, it takes 2 minutes to exactly repeat the sequence, in the dark, if you like, with a repeatability of ±2 - 3 mm. A stylist who could just do what he did last time to that accuracy would, perhaps, be worth $200 a pop, but most do well to come within 1/2 inch of the same cut, time after time. Many do a lot worse.
Not to mention the whole not needing an appointment, not sitting in waiting chairs, and not getting hustled for overpriced "product," etc. that is part and parcel of the stylist "experience."
posted by paulsc at 1:34 PM on September 2, 2009
Well, box, I admire people who can cut their own hair, and I have no problem with it. I just don't think it's grounds to denigrate the livelihood of other people, or denying their talent and skill and the fact that many of them work very hard and take great pride in the quality of their work. Celebrate your own self-sufficiency, no problem, as long as it's not at the cost of impugning others. Of course I don't know your exact situation, but who knows - maybe if you went to a good pro, you might be pleasantly surprised - again, it's not applicable to all, but I suspect that many of those who do their own might actually benefit. But to each his/her own, and respect to all.
posted by VikingSword at 1:37 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by VikingSword at 1:37 PM on September 2, 2009
After a few cuts, you've worked out, exactly, the progression of spacers and paths you like to cut your own hair
I have as big a DIY ethic as just about anyone, but this learning curve scares me. How goofy-looking are those first few haircuts?
posted by exogenous at 1:48 PM on September 2, 2009
I have as big a DIY ethic as just about anyone, but this learning curve scares me. How goofy-looking are those first few haircuts?
posted by exogenous at 1:48 PM on September 2, 2009
Ability to go bald/buzz cut at will without getting hassled/asked if you've got cancer: One more for the Male Privilege* backpack.
*and some lesbians
posted by emjaybee at 1:51 PM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
*and some lesbians
posted by emjaybee at 1:51 PM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
Oh, yeah, I totally agree. I don't think I said anything to denigrate anyone's livelihood or their talent. Hairstyling is an art.
But my hairstyle is more like drawing a circle with a compass--and, like I said, I don't think anybody can do it 200x better than I can. I don't mean to insult anybody--it's just that it's about as simple as a haircut could possibly be. And I sure don't mean to toot my own horn--like I said, it's like drawing a circle with a compass.
posted by box at 1:59 PM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
But my hairstyle is more like drawing a circle with a compass--and, like I said, I don't think anybody can do it 200x better than I can. I don't mean to insult anybody--it's just that it's about as simple as a haircut could possibly be. And I sure don't mean to toot my own horn--like I said, it's like drawing a circle with a compass.
posted by box at 1:59 PM on September 2, 2009 [2 favorites]
"... How goofy-looking are those first few haircuts?"
posted by exogenous at 4:48 PM on September 2
Why should they be goofy looking, ever? After all, you own the system, and if you go slow, and check yourself constantly in the mirror, the first few times you do it, it's just your time, and a little electricity that you're wasting. You just start with a spacer stack that is slightly longer than the longest hair on your head, and you go over your whole head, as a start. Then take out a 1/4 inch spacer, and do it again, repeating removing spacers gradually, until you've cut the longest hair on your head to the length you want. Switch over to the included taper spacer, and start cutting up, from the nape of your neck, and over your ears, with a tapered spacer stack that is shortened to the length you want the shortest hair on your head to be. Work back up to the top of your head, where the longest hair generally is, adding spacers as needed, to successively taper the hair, and blend it to the longer lengths you've already established.
Remember that you can always go back and take off a bit more hair, a lot easier than you can wait for it to grow. And remember to "bounce" the Flowbee, not drag it through your hair like those YouTube idiots did, so you get the best "measuring" effects of the spacer system. If you go at it gradually, your first Flowbee haircut will be good, but just take more time than subsequent ones. The only thing experience gets you with a Flowbee, is speed. You quickly learn exactly what spacer stacks you need for various areas of your head to get your desired result, and you don't have to check it constantly in the mirror. So, you soon get it down to a very repeatable, 2 minute drill that you can do in the dark, if needs be.
Do it every week, and it will look like you never get a haircut, and that your hair is always the same. Because, actually, it will be, ± 2 - 3 mm.
posted by paulsc at 2:15 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by exogenous at 4:48 PM on September 2
Why should they be goofy looking, ever? After all, you own the system, and if you go slow, and check yourself constantly in the mirror, the first few times you do it, it's just your time, and a little electricity that you're wasting. You just start with a spacer stack that is slightly longer than the longest hair on your head, and you go over your whole head, as a start. Then take out a 1/4 inch spacer, and do it again, repeating removing spacers gradually, until you've cut the longest hair on your head to the length you want. Switch over to the included taper spacer, and start cutting up, from the nape of your neck, and over your ears, with a tapered spacer stack that is shortened to the length you want the shortest hair on your head to be. Work back up to the top of your head, where the longest hair generally is, adding spacers as needed, to successively taper the hair, and blend it to the longer lengths you've already established.
Remember that you can always go back and take off a bit more hair, a lot easier than you can wait for it to grow. And remember to "bounce" the Flowbee, not drag it through your hair like those YouTube idiots did, so you get the best "measuring" effects of the spacer system. If you go at it gradually, your first Flowbee haircut will be good, but just take more time than subsequent ones. The only thing experience gets you with a Flowbee, is speed. You quickly learn exactly what spacer stacks you need for various areas of your head to get your desired result, and you don't have to check it constantly in the mirror. So, you soon get it down to a very repeatable, 2 minute drill that you can do in the dark, if needs be.
Do it every week, and it will look like you never get a haircut, and that your hair is always the same. Because, actually, it will be, ± 2 - 3 mm.
posted by paulsc at 2:15 PM on September 2, 2009
I've been cutting my own hair for a few years now. A few long layers and sometimes bangs. I also have enough wave that if I messed it up you couldn't tell. I could probably afford the 14$ TopCuts wants but then I'd have to walk the 300m to the shop.
posted by sgrass at 2:31 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by sgrass at 2:31 PM on September 2, 2009
Can a clipper do something like an inch-long overall cut?
Actually, when I used to cut my own hair, I remember specifically choosing the clipper set I bought (a Wahl) because it came with a 1.5" guide. Google tells me that they still sell it.
I cut my wife's hair. Actually, when it happens, I usually walk into the bathroom to find my wife, a hairy sink, and a pair of scissors. Then she asks me to fix it. My mother-in-law says it's a cute cut, so either she really likes me or I'm doing a decent job.
posted by jsmith77 at 3:36 PM on September 2, 2009
Actually, when I used to cut my own hair, I remember specifically choosing the clipper set I bought (a Wahl) because it came with a 1.5" guide. Google tells me that they still sell it.
I cut my wife's hair. Actually, when it happens, I usually walk into the bathroom to find my wife, a hairy sink, and a pair of scissors. Then she asks me to fix it. My mother-in-law says it's a cute cut, so either she really likes me or I'm doing a decent job.
posted by jsmith77 at 3:36 PM on September 2, 2009
This is so weird - the synchronicity....
I just gave myself a Flowbee haircut. Just now. Then logged on to see this story.
I can't say enough good things about the Flowbee. It's quite simply the best consumer product I own. I've been using it for twenty years, and have saved THOUSANDS of dollars.
But the real kicker is the consistency. I know EXACTLY how the haircut is going to look and can repeat the result every single time.
Also, the cuts themselves don't look ANY different from ones given by a barber or stylist. (caveat: these are simple men's cuts - not elaborate styles. Stylists are still necessary and highly skilled professionals.)
The process is so clean you could do it on the International Space Station.
I. LOVE. THE. FLOWBEE.
posted by markjamesmurphy at 3:58 PM on September 2, 2009
I just gave myself a Flowbee haircut. Just now. Then logged on to see this story.
I can't say enough good things about the Flowbee. It's quite simply the best consumer product I own. I've been using it for twenty years, and have saved THOUSANDS of dollars.
But the real kicker is the consistency. I know EXACTLY how the haircut is going to look and can repeat the result every single time.
Also, the cuts themselves don't look ANY different from ones given by a barber or stylist. (caveat: these are simple men's cuts - not elaborate styles. Stylists are still necessary and highly skilled professionals.)
The process is so clean you could do it on the International Space Station.
I. LOVE. THE. FLOWBEE.
posted by markjamesmurphy at 3:58 PM on September 2, 2009
Cut my own hair with a Wahl for something like 10 years. Have recently relented to the barber simply because I wanted two lengths rather than one uniform length, but if I ever go back to one, I certainly won't be paying for it.
posted by Durn Bronzefist at 4:49 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by Durn Bronzefist at 4:49 PM on September 2, 2009
My son and my husband both have something like longer "high and tight" cuts. It's easier for me to break out the wahl and do it myself than it is to try and get either of them into a place that can do a better job than I can.
My hair...is super long, super thick, super wavy and turning super grey. Since both my husband and I are between gigs, the $250 plus tip my stylist charges to do my hair is right out for now. I'm just going as long as I can without a cut, and doing my own color. It looks alright...mostly because I wear it pulled back and in a bun...but if I get a serious interview, I'll probably have to pony up to have a pro do something to put it back into shape, or risk interviewing looking like a Prussian Nanny.
posted by dejah420 at 5:12 PM on September 2, 2009
My hair...is super long, super thick, super wavy and turning super grey. Since both my husband and I are between gigs, the $250 plus tip my stylist charges to do my hair is right out for now. I'm just going as long as I can without a cut, and doing my own color. It looks alright...mostly because I wear it pulled back and in a bun...but if I get a serious interview, I'll probably have to pony up to have a pro do something to put it back into shape, or risk interviewing looking like a Prussian Nanny.
posted by dejah420 at 5:12 PM on September 2, 2009
box: I invested in the Oster 76 last month and I love it with the heat of 10 suns.
I run the #000 guard (the short one) over the my head once a week, and so have eliminated the variable of hair from my life. It always looks the same, and always looks good. Awesome. I just need to get some white outfits to get the whole THX-1138 experience
posted by leotrotsky at 5:16 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
I run the #000 guard (the short one) over the my head once a week, and so have eliminated the variable of hair from my life. It always looks the same, and always looks good. Awesome. I just need to get some white outfits to get the whole THX-1138 experience
posted by leotrotsky at 5:16 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
I had shoulder length backwater R.D.Moore hair for..ever. Then I got it cut all off for the Summer.
I never had a worse summer in my life.
So I figure, like Sampson, I should be ginger and sparing with the haircuts.
posted by The Whelk at 5:52 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
I never had a worse summer in my life.
So I figure, like Sampson, I should be ginger and sparing with the haircuts.
posted by The Whelk at 5:52 PM on September 2, 2009 [1 favorite]
All I know is that my college Chemistry professor swore by the Flowbee and even dedicated a 30 minute presentation on the Flowbee and all its perks one day . . .
Then my best friend bought it and used it with a religious fervor until it died four years later . . .
posted by TwiceTheRice at 7:05 PM on September 2, 2009
Then my best friend bought it and used it with a religious fervor until it died four years later . . .
posted by TwiceTheRice at 7:05 PM on September 2, 2009
The horror stories I've heard about the Flowbee make me distrustful. Maybe it is like that 'friend' who gets into a freezing pool, then yells to you: "It's really warm! Jump in!"
posted by eye of newt at 8:20 PM on September 2, 2009
posted by eye of newt at 8:20 PM on September 2, 2009
Given the expense and inconvenience of haircuts, professional or self-administered, I'm surprised that just growing one's hair long isn't more popular. I suppose it's the annoying mid-length stage, where it's too short to stay in a ponytail and too long to stay out of the eyes.
posted by aeschenkarnos at 12:20 AM on September 3, 2009
posted by aeschenkarnos at 12:20 AM on September 3, 2009
Given the expense and inconvenience of haircuts, professional or self-administered, I'm surprised that just growing one's hair long isn't more popular. I suppose it's the annoying mid-length stage, where it's too short to stay in a ponytail and too long to stay out of the eyes.
For guys at least, there's also the whole "pretty seriously limits your career choices" aspect as well.
posted by The Gooch at 6:45 AM on September 3, 2009
For guys at least, there's also the whole "pretty seriously limits your career choices" aspect as well.
posted by The Gooch at 6:45 AM on September 3, 2009
aeschenkarnos said: Given the expense and inconvenience of haircuts, professional or self-administered, I'm surprised that just growing one's hair long isn't more popular. I suppose it's the annoying mid-length stage, where it's too short to stay in a ponytail and too long to stay out of the eyes.
Well, also, long hair is hard to maintain, if you want it to look good and be healthy. If I didn't make my own products, but instead purchased the same formula from the very few companies that make natural, non-animal tested, animal-free, products, I would easily spend $700+ a year just in product alone.
And I'm not a crazy person with product. I don't blow dry or style my hair; I'm just talking about shampoo, conditioner, after shower hair butter (to keep it non-frizzy) and a once a month deep oil treatment. The ingredients are costly, and if you were adding in packaging, insurance, marketing...and all the other goodies it takes to bring a product to market, those products can get really expensive. (For example, a well known salon brand makes a product similar to the shea butter product I make for my hair...it's sold at the salon for $45.00 for a tube that would last for maybe 30 applications.)
So, while long hair may save money from the haircut perspective, in that you can go a couple of months without a cut usually, it is not, in my opinion a less expensive option.
posted by dejah420 at 7:25 AM on September 3, 2009
Well, also, long hair is hard to maintain, if you want it to look good and be healthy. If I didn't make my own products, but instead purchased the same formula from the very few companies that make natural, non-animal tested, animal-free, products, I would easily spend $700+ a year just in product alone.
And I'm not a crazy person with product. I don't blow dry or style my hair; I'm just talking about shampoo, conditioner, after shower hair butter (to keep it non-frizzy) and a once a month deep oil treatment. The ingredients are costly, and if you were adding in packaging, insurance, marketing...and all the other goodies it takes to bring a product to market, those products can get really expensive. (For example, a well known salon brand makes a product similar to the shea butter product I make for my hair...it's sold at the salon for $45.00 for a tube that would last for maybe 30 applications.)
So, while long hair may save money from the haircut perspective, in that you can go a couple of months without a cut usually, it is not, in my opinion a less expensive option.
posted by dejah420 at 7:25 AM on September 3, 2009
The Whelk: I should be ginger
You can be -- it comes in a bottle now.
posted by hippybear at 7:29 AM on September 3, 2009
You can be -- it comes in a bottle now.
posted by hippybear at 7:29 AM on September 3, 2009
You can be -- it comes in a bottle now.
Funny you should mention that. I'm blue-eyed and fair skinned so my natural hair color is kinda lightish brown, but I dye it black cause that's what Elvis did and what Daddy did so that's what I did. But when I started to let my beard in, I was kinda shocked that it was blond. Like Viking strawberry blond. I've got a bottle of red dye and bleach in the bathroom Just In Case I decide to go all Lothar Of the Hill People on my head.
posted by The Whelk at 7:57 AM on September 3, 2009
Funny you should mention that. I'm blue-eyed and fair skinned so my natural hair color is kinda lightish brown, but I dye it black cause that's what Elvis did and what Daddy did so that's what I did. But when I started to let my beard in, I was kinda shocked that it was blond. Like Viking strawberry blond. I've got a bottle of red dye and bleach in the bathroom Just In Case I decide to go all Lothar Of the Hill People on my head.
posted by The Whelk at 7:57 AM on September 3, 2009
Two DIY haircut tips: 1) I knew a girl who looked like a model, and had beautiful long blond hair. She got the perfect cut, for her, by hanging her head off the end of a bed, brushing all her hair straight down, then cutting it all straight across. When she righted herself and brushed it back, she had a perfectly layed cut. 2) If you have curly hair, like me, and some wild piece starts to fly out on one side, and you cut it off, find the corresdonding piece on the opposite side, even if it's not unruly, and cut it off too. This keeps your hair from evolving into an asymetrical craze.
posted by StickyCarpet at 8:58 AM on September 3, 2009
posted by StickyCarpet at 8:58 AM on September 3, 2009
maxwelton, though you can get the longer guards, anything over half an inch and it starts to be pretty hard to get the hair to hit the clipper instead of falling over, unless if you feel like getting acrobatic. Probably easier to freestyle it with clippers & a comb and a second person. (or bite the bullet and get a flobee, which doesn't have that problem.) My 1/2" haircuts are already a 2-3 day affair as I catch the little stragglers that didn't quite hit the clippers yesterday, but are standing up proudly today.
And to chime in here, I'd been enjoying the last years of having hair on my head, and I'm now in the interim buzzcut stage before I start shaving it all off, hopefully before the hair up front becomes an island. But it was my regular stylist's maternity leave that clinched the transition to DIY hair more than any financial struggle.
posted by Kyol at 9:28 AM on September 3, 2009
And to chime in here, I'd been enjoying the last years of having hair on my head, and I'm now in the interim buzzcut stage before I start shaving it all off, hopefully before the hair up front becomes an island. But it was my regular stylist's maternity leave that clinched the transition to DIY hair more than any financial struggle.
posted by Kyol at 9:28 AM on September 3, 2009
The Whelk: you're not helping reduce my already overbearing crush on you one whit.
posted by hippybear at 9:50 AM on September 3, 2009
posted by hippybear at 9:50 AM on September 3, 2009
I hope that came across as a joke and not some creepy creepster comment. eek!
posted by hippybear at 10:58 AM on September 3, 2009
posted by hippybear at 10:58 AM on September 3, 2009
Hippybear, after this thread, I am beyond such concerns.
Be warned, the thread contains a video of me in drag, which may help to reduce crushiness
posted by The Whelk at 11:02 AM on September 3, 2009
Be warned, the thread contains a video of me in drag, which may help to reduce crushiness
posted by The Whelk at 11:02 AM on September 3, 2009
Oh, pshaw. If you think a little thing like THAT is going to drive me away, you need to rethink things.
Now, quit dying your hair black, grow out your beard, and come start a life with me, you crazy queer fool!
posted by hippybear at 11:14 AM on September 3, 2009
Now, quit dying your hair black, grow out your beard, and come start a life with me, you crazy queer fool!
posted by hippybear at 11:14 AM on September 3, 2009
Metafilter: Now, quit dying your hair black, grow out your beard, and come start a life with me, you crazy queer fool!
posted by The Whelk at 11:19 AM on September 3, 2009 [1 favorite]
posted by The Whelk at 11:19 AM on September 3, 2009 [1 favorite]
About five or six years ago I started a pattern of electric-trimmer with no guard, followed by shaving with regular razor, followed by ignoring my hair for the next month or so. Before that, I never really had a good haircut.
But I never spent much money on haircuts to begin with. The local barber college charged $2.00 for a cut by a student, and I took advantage of that a lot. Also, sometimes I would just let a drunk friend cut my hair. That's pretty cheap. And I didn't cut it at all for a couple of years. That was a pretty bad idea, in retrospect.
posted by Cookiebastard at 12:46 PM on September 3, 2009
But I never spent much money on haircuts to begin with. The local barber college charged $2.00 for a cut by a student, and I took advantage of that a lot. Also, sometimes I would just let a drunk friend cut my hair. That's pretty cheap. And I didn't cut it at all for a couple of years. That was a pretty bad idea, in retrospect.
posted by Cookiebastard at 12:46 PM on September 3, 2009
I had a bad experience or two at some barbers that caused me to start using the clippers myself. I'd grow it out again like I did the first time if I wasn't trying to find work in law enforcement. They tend to frown on that.
posted by ericales at 1:15 PM on September 3, 2009
posted by ericales at 1:15 PM on September 3, 2009
The Gooch For guys at least, there's also the whole "pretty seriously limits your career choices" aspect as well.
Meh, only for jobs you wouldn't want anyway, not least because they think they can decide for you how you're going to cut your hair.
posted by aeschenkarnos at 1:09 AM on September 4, 2009
Meh, only for jobs you wouldn't want anyway, not least because they think they can decide for you how you're going to cut your hair.
posted by aeschenkarnos at 1:09 AM on September 4, 2009
What, you don't want to be an astronaut?
posted by box at 9:39 PM on September 4, 2009 [1 favorite]
posted by box at 9:39 PM on September 4, 2009 [1 favorite]
Not if they won't make make helmets a little roomier to store my massive flowing man hair. I worked hard for these locks. I'll put up with a little itchiness if I could comb it out in free-fall, cause seriously, tangles would be a thing of the past.
posted by The Whelk at 9:44 PM on September 4, 2009
posted by The Whelk at 9:44 PM on September 4, 2009
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Clipper Sales Rise as Hairlines Recede at Salons, but Tonsorial Mishaps Invigorate Repair Work
To help pare their budgets . . .
The results can be shear disaster . . .
Sorry, WSJ article, I just can't be with you any more.
posted by brain_drain at 10:10 AM on September 2, 2009 [3 favorites]