Wouldn't it be great to be able to make a flat top at home instead of going to a salon?It's not hard at all.It might take a few tries to get your technique down, but overall it's a great cut with some margin for error.Follow these steps with your clippers.
Step 1: Determine how much hair to take off.
The person whose hair you're cutting should know how long the top and sides should be.This information can help you make a decision.Do they want it to be thicker around the sides or not?How much hair do they want to leave on top?
Step 2: Purchase a hair clipper from a store.
There are three major brands.
Step 3: You can buy hair clipper blades from your local beauty supply store or online.
There are specific length settings for the blades.The "000" blade cuts hair to 1/2 inch.It's a good idea to use a 1/3- to 1/2-inch attachment for standard flat tops.For flat tops with very close sides, choose the smallest-length blade.Even though clippers come with plastic length guards, they are not as effective at producing smooth as the steel blades.
Step 4: Start by moving the clippers from the bottom of the hair to a vertical line on the right side of your head.
Make your way towards the back of the head by working in small sections.Use a blade-on-skin technique to cut vertical sections.To do this, comb a small section of hair downwards, rest the clipper attachment against the skin starting at the bottom of your section, and move up in a vertical line.Don't follow the curve of the head when cutting the sides, follow an imaginary vertical line up to the sky.Continue moving your clippers upwards when the head starts to curve.
Step 5: At the back of the head, clippers should be run up to the crown.
The back needs to be blended into the top for a balanced effect."Round off" means instead of working in a straight line all the way to the top, move your clippers to follow the curve of the head just slightly at the beginning.
Step 6: On the left side is the temple.
On the left side, use the same technique as you did on the right, moving upwards in a vertical line.
Step 7: The top should be cut using a comb and clippers.
Lift a small section of hair upwards from the back of the crown by holding your comb parallel to the floor.There is excess hair sticking out of the comb.The combs should be parallel to the clippers.Work your way, section by section, to the forehead.To avoid clipper lines, use small sections.Make sure the section is the same length as the previous one.If you want a clean, even finish, comb the hair back from the forehead.
Step 8: Take your work to be inspected.
It's a good idea to cut off long hairs with scissors.
Step 9: To trim the sideburns and neck, use a t-trimmer.
Pull the clipper away at the same angle if you want to hold the t-trimmer with the blade against the skin.It's a good idea to start at the bottom and work upwards.
Step 10: To help the top stand up straight, use pomade or styling wax.
Apply a little product and comb the top with a brush or comb.Adding volume and shape can be accomplished by blowdrying the hair upwards.Make sure there's no product left over on the skin by applying a towel to the forehead.
Step 11: You should trim the flat top every few weeks.
Regular maintenance is required to keep the long hair on top looking fresh.