How to Install Hair Tinsel To Sparkle For Any Occasion

Add instant shimmer to your style with glamorous hair tinsel (also known as fairy hair)! In this quick and creative tutorial, you’ll learn how to install hair tinsel two ways—using snap clips or adding it to your clip-in extensions. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just want everyday glam, we’ll show you how to make your hair sparkle.

This photo showcases the before and after transformation with hair tinsel.

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

Start with clean, dry hair—do not install tinsel on wet hair. Gently detangle with a wide-tooth comb, making sure your hair is not tangled before you start. Then add a bit of texturizer or pomade if your hair is silky or slippery—this will help the tinsel grip better.

Choosing the Right Hair Tinsel Kit

Adding a touch of sparkle to your hair begins with choosing the perfect hair tinsel kit — one that celebrates your authentic self and transforms your everyday look into something extraordinary. With countless options available, it's essential to select a kit that honors your unique style and makes the entire experience feel empowering and seamless. Look for a hair tinsel kit that offers a beautiful variety of tinsel strands in different colors — this way, you can create a look that's deeply personal, reflecting your mood, your confidence, and the radiant woman you are.

A truly exceptional kit will include every tool you need to add hair tinsel at home — beads, a hook tool, and pliers that feel comfortable in your hands. These carefully crafted tools make it effortless to attach tinsel strands securely, whether you're just beginning your beauty journey or you're already a confident pro. If you have shorter hair, choosing a kit with appropriately sized tinsel strands ensures a flawless finish — no unnecessary trimming, no waste, just pure elegance that makes you feel unstoppable.

Quality matters deeply when it comes to your hair transformation. Choose a kit featuring premium, iridescent tinsel that can gracefully handle your daily routine — regular brushing, washing, and even gentle blow drying. This ensures your sparkling strands maintain their vibrant beauty for weeks, keeping you feeling confident and radiant every single day. Before you begin, take time to watch a tutorial or two and embrace tips from experienced users — just a little practice can transform your tinsel application into a smooth, joyful ritual of self-care.

With the right hair tinsel kit, you'll have everything needed to create a dazzling, authentically you style that speaks to your inner confidence. So embrace your favorite kit, gather those beautiful tools, and get ready to experience the pure joy of adding that extra sparkle to your tresses — because when you feel good about your hair, you feel absolutely unstoppable.

Step 2: Plan Your Tinsel Placement

Decide where you want your sparkle. Creating a part down the center of your head can help with even tinsel placement. Around the face for subtle glam? All-over for maximum drama? Choose spots where the tinsel will shine when your hair moves or is styled up or down. You can also focus on one side of your hair for an asymmetrical or unique look.

Method 1: Installing Hair Tinsel with Snap Clips

This method is perfect for temporary looks, as the tinsel can be easily clipped in for quick application and removal, and can be reused again and again.

What You'll Need:

• Hair Tinsel Strands

• Snap Clips (match your roots for a seamless look)

• Hook Pulling Needle

• Scissors

Steps:

1. Grab a snap clip and a tinsel strand. Fold the tinsel strand in half so the ends are the same length, creating a loop at the folded part.

2. Use a Hook Pulling Needle to thread the folded part of the tinsel strand through the clip, preparing for attaching.

3. Secure it by pulling the tinsel strand through the loop and tightening the knot to hold it firmly in place. Note: Attaching the tinsel securely will help it last longer.

4. Trim the tinsel to the same length as your real hair, using a pair of scissors to cut straight across for a neat finish.

Note: Having a friend help can make the process easier, especially for beginners.

Method 2: Adding Hair Tinsel to Clip-In Extensions

This method is perfect if you already wear clip-in hair extensions, especially those made of real hair, and want to add a pop of sparkle without altering your natural hair. It’s also a great way to reuse your tinsel by switching up your extensions whenever you want! When adding tinsel to the weft, blend the tinsel strands with the extension hairs for a natural, seamless look.

What You'll Need:

• Hair Tinsel Strands

• Clip-In Hair Extensions

• Hook Pulling Needle

• Scissors

• Beginner's Guide to Hair Extensions

Steps:

1. Lay your clip-in extensions flat on a clean surface or clip them onto a mannequin head or hanger for easier handling.

2. Decide where you want to place the tinsel on the weft—near the clips or spread across the length depending on the effect you want.

3. Take a tinsel strand and fold it in half so both ends are the same length. Place the folded part at the middle of the extension, right next to a section of hair fibers.

4. Using your Hook Pulling Needle, gently loop the folded tinsel strand around a strand of extension hair and pull it through.

5. Tie a small knot or loop the tinsel securely around the hair strands so it won’t slide out. You can double knot for extra hold.

Note: Hiding the knots under a layer of hair will create a more seamless look.

6. Repeat as desired across the weft. The more tinsel you add, the bolder the sparkle!

7. Trim the tinsel so it blends with the ends of your extensions or keep it slightly longer for a dramatic effect.

8. Install your clip-ins as usual, and style with gentle heat if needed—just be mindful of the tinsel’s heat tolerance (most can handle low heat only).

Note: This method works for curly extensions as well.

Styling Tip: Use tinsel on face-framing clip-ins for a soft, peekaboo shimmer when you tuck your hair or pin it back!

Method 3: Installing Hair Tinsel with Tape Tabs

This method is ideal if you’re looking for a more secure, long-lasting style by attaching tinsel with tape tabs. It’s perfect for events, vacations, or just everyday shimmer that lasts a bit longer.

What You'll Need:

• Hair Tinsel Strands

• Replacement Tape Tabs

• Tape-In Hair Extensions Guide

• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut your tinsel strands to the desired length.

2. Peel the backing off one tape tab and carefully lay a few folded tinsel strands (folded in half) across the tape tab.

3. Press another tape tab on top to sandwich the tinsel strands in between.

4. Part your hair and press the tape sandwich close to the scalp, making sure it lies flat for a secure hold.

5. Press and hold for a few seconds to secure. Avoid washing or styling for 24–48 hours.

6. Trim the tinsel to the same length as your hair, cutting straight across for a neat finish.

Note: Having a friend help can make the process easier and faster, especially if you are new to installing tinsel strands.

Note: For best results, hide the tape tabs under a layer of hair to make the tinsel less visible and achieve a more seamless look.

Watch the video tutorial:

Final Sparkle: Your Hair Tinsel Journey Starts Now ✨

Whether you’re going for a subtle glimmer or full-on glam, hair tinsel is the perfect way to express your style and stand out. With three easy methods—snap clips, clip-in extensions, and tape tabs—you can customize your sparkle to suit any mood or moment.

Ready to get started? Pick your favorite method and start shimmering today. After installing your tinsel, remember to gently wash your hair to help maintain its longevity and keep it looking fresh. And don’t forget to tag @perfectlocks on Instagram—we love seeing your magical transformations! If you’ve tried hair tinsel, please leave a review or share your experience to help others on their styling journey.

Need the tools to bring it all to life?

Keep experimenting, keep shining—and let your hair be your canvas.