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The “perfect bun” may seem elusive but with this simple solution, it'll cease to elude you. Using a clean sock to act as your guide, you'll be able to design a fashionable, yet functional, classic bun.

  1. It's best to use the odd sock that isn't useful anymore; avoid using a sock that's still in regular use. The sock should be ankle or mid-shin length; anything longer risks bunching up. Shorter socks tend to cradle your bun and hold it in place.
    • Select a sock that won’t “shed” or create too many loose threads. You'll be cutting this sock, so if it tends to unravel with loose threads, find another or be prepared to darn the edges.
    • Socks close in color to your hair color work best, as it will blend in more should it peek through your strands. [1]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Do a Sock Bun
    Remove the toe-end of the sock using sharp, fabric scissors. Your goal is to create a tube out of the sock, so only cut off as much as is needed to do this. Follow the seam if possible when cutting. That way you will have a cleaner, straighter cut. [2]
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Do a Sock Bun
    Put your hair in a ponytail . Roll up the sock so that it is donut or ring shaped, and slip it over the ponytail. Pull it to the base of the ponytail so that all of the hair is gathered inside of it. [3]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Do a Sock Bun
    Once all the hair is gathered inside the sock, pull it as close to the ends as you can. Tuck the hair around the side and into the center of the bun. [4]
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Do a Sock Bun
    Hold the ends of your hair at the center of the sock and roll the fabric down towards the base of the ponytail. The hair will gather in a ring around the sock. Rotate the sock as you roll it down so that it is completely covered by your hair. [5]
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Do a Sock Bun
    When the sock has reached the base of the ponytail, tug on the edges and adjust them so that none of the sock can be seen through your hair. Use bobby pins to secure the bun to your scalp if it feels loose or moves around at all. Add a light misting of hairspray, and you're finished.
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  • Question
    Can I go to sleep with the sock bun to make my hair curly?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can, but expect a slight wave. For tighter curls, try putting your hair in braids for the night.
  • Question
    Is it the same when I use a store bought hair donut?
    Community Answer
    Yes. The sock is just "free", as an odd sock generally has no use anymore. The store bought ones are great for matching your hair colour though, so it is harder to see.
  • Question
    How would I take it out?
    Community Answer
    Start by pulling out all of the pins. After that, unroll the sock and pull it out. Once you are left with just a ponytail, simply pull off the hair tie and brush your hair out.
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Try putting the sock over the hair tie first, then let your hair fall over it before adding another tie. Be sure to wrap the ends and pin for a clean finish.
      • Use a longer sock if you have shorter hair to make sure it's fully covered. Be sure to pick a sock you're okay cutting up.
      • If your hair is dry, mist it with water first so the bun stays tighter. For curly hair, do this style when damp.
      • Leave a section out of the ponytail, then braid the remainder once the bun is done for a cute look.
      • This style only takes a couple minutes, so it's great for work or school when you're rushed.
      • Instead of a sock, you could use a doughnut bun maker from a store for an easier process.
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      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To use a sock to make a bun, cut the toe end off and roll the sock into a donut or ring shape. Slide the sock onto your ponytail, then pull it as close to the tip of your hair as you can. Tuck any remaining hair under the center of the donut. Then, roll the sock down slowly, gathering your hair in a ring as you go. Rotate the sock as you roll it down so your hair completely covers it. Spray your bun with hairspray if you’d like, then rock the look! For more helpful advice on what types of socks to choose, scroll down!

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Nada Alhajj

        Oct 9, 2020

        "I didn't know how to do buns, but now that this article helped me I might make a beautiful bun just like the ..." more
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