Double Drawn vs Single Drawn Hair Extensions — Complete Guide 2026
When shopping for hair extensions in India, you will encounter "single drawn" and "double drawn" — terms most sellers assume you already know. Understanding double drawn vs single drawn hair extensions is one of the most important decisions you will make, because it directly determines how thick and full your hair looks from root to tip. Yet it is one of the least explained concepts in the Indian market.
This guide breaks down what these terms mean, how they affect appearance and price, who benefits from each type, and how to verify what you are receiving.
What Do Single Drawn, Double Drawn, and Super Double Drawn Mean?
These terms describe how hair is sorted after collection. "Drawing" refers to pulling hair through a hackle (a bed of fine needles) to remove shorter strands and create uniform length.
Single Drawn Hair Extensions
Minimally sorted hair where 50-60% of strands are the full stated length, with 40-50% shorter. This creates a natural taper — thickest near the weft, gradually thinning towards the ends. Single drawn is the most common and affordable option.
Double Drawn Hair Extensions
An additional sorting process removes shorter hairs, resulting in 70-80% of strands at full stated length. This creates visibly uniform thickness from weft to tips — full, blunt ends rather than wispy. Double drawn requires significantly more raw hair and labour, costing more.
Super Double Drawn Hair Extensions
The highest grade: 90-95% of strands are full length, creating maximum density from root to tip. The most labour-intensive to produce, commanding prices sometimes double or triple single drawn hair of the same length.
For a comprehensive overview of extension terminology, read our complete guide to hair extensions India 2026.
Visual Difference — How to Spot Single Drawn vs Double Drawn
Hold the bundle vertically: Single drawn hair forms a V-shape, tapering to thin ends. Double drawn maintains a rectangular silhouette — nearly the same width top and bottom.
Examine the ends: With single drawn, the bottom three inches are almost transparent. With double drawn, the ends feel dense and full.
Check the weight: Double drawn of the same length weighs 20-40% more due to more full-length hairs. If a "double drawn" bundle feels light, question the claim.
The rubber band test: Wrap a rubber band around the middle and another around the bottom. With single drawn, the bottom band is noticeably looser. With genuine double drawn, both feel similarly snug.
Shop Our Double Drawn Clip-In Sets →
Price Difference Between Single Drawn and Double Drawn in India
| Drawing Type | Full-Length Strands | Price Premium | Typical Price Range (18-inch, per 100g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Drawn | 50–60% | Base price | ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Double Drawn | 70–80% | 40–70% more | ₹7,000 – ₹14,000 |
| Super Double Drawn | 90–95% | 100–200% more | ₹12,000 – ₹22,000 |
To create 100 grams of double drawn 18-inch hair, a manufacturer needs approximately 150-180 grams of raw single drawn hair. The shorter strands removed are used for shorter lengths, but additional labour and material drive costs. See our hair extension price list India 2026.
Who Needs Double Drawn vs Single Drawn Hair Extensions?
Single Drawn Is Ideal When:
You want a natural, effortless look: Single drawn mimics how hair actually grows. You have fine or thin natural hair: Thick, blunt-ended double drawn can look jarring against fine hair — single drawn creates a proportional transition. See our best extensions for thin hair guide. You are on a budget: 40-70% less cost. You prefer layered hairstyles: The natural taper creates a layered effect without cutting.
Double Drawn Is Ideal When:
You want maximum volume and fullness: Uniform thickness from root to tip creates that coveted "Instagram hair" look. You have thick natural hair: Single drawn would look wispy against dense Indian hair. You want blunt-cut styles: Essential for sharp, one-length cuts. You are investing for longevity: Double drawn maintains fullness longer — even after months of natural shedding, ends retain respectable density.
Explore Our Tape-In Extensions — Available in Single and Double Drawn →
How to Verify Whether Extensions Are Genuinely Double Drawn
Mislabelling is common in the Indian market. Some sellers label single drawn as "double drawn" to justify higher prices.
Request a ponytail test photo: Genuine double drawn maintains near-uniform thickness when tied. If it tapers significantly, it is single drawn. Weigh the bundle: A genuine double drawn 18-inch 100g bundle should feel dense. Check weft density: Double drawn wefts have visibly denser hair per centimetre. Buy from transparent brands: Hair Extensions Luxe clearly labels drawing type with accurate photos.
For more guidance on avoiding misleading claims, read our guide on how to spot fake human hair extensions online.
Double Drawn vs Single Drawn — Impact on Different Extension Types
Clip-in extensions: Double drawn clip-ins are most popular for maximum special-occasion volume. Single drawn works well for everyday subtle enhancement.
Tape-in extensions: Drawing type is particularly important since tape-ins lie flat against your head. Double drawn provides even volume; single drawn may leave lower sections sparse.
Weft extensions: Double drawn wefts create seamless looks because each row contributes consistent volume. Single drawn works well for lower rows where natural tapering is acceptable.
I-tip and nano-tip: Individual strand extensions are almost always single drawn — the stylist controls volume by varying strand count.
Browse Our Weft Hair Extensions Collection →
Caring for Double Drawn vs Single Drawn Extensions
Brushing: Double drawn requires more patience when detangling due to dense, uniform thickness. Use a loop brush or wide-tooth comb, starting from ends. Washing: Both require sulphate-free shampoo. Double drawn takes longer to dry — air drying is preferable. Storage: Store double drawn extensions flat in a silk pouch rather than hanging, which can stress the heavier weft. Lifespan: Double drawn looks fuller longer because thin ends from natural shedding are less noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does double drawn mean in hair extensions?
Double drawn means the hair has been sorted twice to remove shorter strands, resulting in 70-80% of hairs being full stated length. This creates uniform thickness from weft to tips. The process requires more raw hair and labour, making double drawn more expensive.
Is double drawn better than single drawn?
Neither is inherently better — it depends on your needs. Double drawn offers maximum fullness for thick hair, blunt cuts, and glamorous styling. Single drawn provides natural tapering that blends well with fine hair and layered styles. Double drawn costs 40-70% more.
How can I tell if my extensions are really double drawn?
Hold the extensions by the weft and let them hang. Genuine double drawn maintains near-uniform width forming a rectangular silhouette. If the hair tapers into a V-shape with thin ends, it is single drawn regardless of the label.
Why are double drawn extensions more expensive?
Creating 100 grams of double drawn hair requires 150-180 grams of raw hair because shorter strands are removed. The process is labour-intensive, requiring skilled workers to hand-sort through hackles multiple times — resulting in a 40-70% price premium.
Can I get double drawn hair extensions in India?
Yes. Hair Extensions Luxe offers both single and double drawn options across clip-in, tape-in, and weft ranges. All double drawn extensions use 100% Remy human hair. Prices start from ₹7,000 for double drawn clip-in sets.
What is super double drawn hair?
The highest grade where 90-95% of strands are full stated length, offering maximum thickness. Costs 100-200% more than single drawn and is primarily chosen for bridal styling, photo shoots, and clients wanting the absolute fullest look.
Which drawing type is best for Indian hair?
Most Indian women have medium to thick hair, making double drawn more popular for a seamless blend. Women with naturally fine or layered hair often prefer single drawn. Visit our Faridabad Experience Centre at Booth 71, Huda Market, Sector 16, or WhatsApp us at +91 7291824563 for personalised advice.
Do I need double drawn for tape-in extensions?
Double drawn tape-ins are highly recommended because each weft panel lies flat and any thinning at the ends becomes very visible. Single drawn tape-ins work for length, but for volume and fullness, double drawn is noticeably superior. Book a consultation to find the right option.
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