Three bundles with a lace frontal are a practical starting point for many medium-length sew-ins, while four bundles may be more appropriate for longer lengths, fuller ends or a high-density finished style.
A frontal covers more of the top and front of the head than a closure, but that does not automatically mean you should remove one full bundle from your order. The frontal adds upper coverage; the bundles still create most of the back, sides and longest visible ends.
The amount of hair you need depends on your frontal size, bundle length, texture, head size, desired fullness and whether you choose same-length or graduated bundles.
This guide explains how to choose between two, three and four bundles with a 13x4 or 13x6 frontal without creating a bulky crown or thin lower section.
How Many Bundles With a Frontal? Quick Guide
| Finished Length | Natural Fullness | Fuller Result | Main Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10–14 inches | 2–3 bundles + frontal | 3 bundles + frontal | Short hair provides more weft coverage and a bob may not need excessive density |
| 16–20 inches | 3 bundles + frontal | 3–4 bundles + frontal | Three bundles are a balanced starting point for many medium-length installs |
| 22–24 inches | 3 bundles + frontal | 4 bundles + frontal | Longer hair provides less weft coverage and the longest ends need enough density |
| 26–30 inches | 3–4 bundles + frontal | 4 bundles + frontal | Extra-long Straight and loosely waved styles make thin ends easier to see |
These are planning ranges, not universal rules. Curly texture, head size, frontal depth, bundle construction and the finished haircut can change the amount required.
Does a Frontal Replace One Bundle?
Not automatically.
A lace frontal contributes hair across the front and top of the installation, reducing the number of bundle tracks needed in that area. However, most of the frontal hair begins near the hairline and crown rather than at the lower back of the head.
The bundles are still responsible for:
- Back coverage
- Side density
- Mid-length fullness
- The longest visible section
- The finished perimeter
This distinction becomes especially important with 24–30 inch hair.
A frontal may make the hairstyle look full around the face while the lower back still looks thin. If full ends are important, choose your bundle count according to the longest section rather than only the amount of hair visible at the crown.
Why a Frontal Uses Fewer Upper Tracks
A frontal occupies a large portion of the top front area that would otherwise need natural Leave-Out, a closure or additional bundle tracks.
That means the installer has less open foundation available for wefts near the crown.
This can help create:
- A flatter upper installation
- Less track stacking near the part
- A smoother transition into the hairline
- More front styling flexibility
It also means that forcing four dense bundles into a short frontal sew-in can create unnecessary bulk.
The goal is not to install every piece of hair you purchased. The goal is to create enough coverage and lower density while keeping the foundation balanced.
13x4 vs. 13x6: Does Frontal Size Change Bundle Count?
A 13x4 frontal extends approximately 13 inches across the front and about four inches back, while a 13x6 frontal provides approximately two additional inches of front-to-back lace depth.
Because a 13x6 covers more of the upper foundation, it can reduce the amount of bundle track needed near the crown.
However, the difference usually affects upper track space more than lower-end density.
13x4 Frontal
A 13x4 provides broad ear-to-ear coverage with a shallower top area.
It works well when you want:
- A natural-looking front hairline
- Middle or side parts
- Standard frontal coverage
- More bundle track space behind the frontal
- A balance between lace coverage and weft density
Browse Brazilian Body Wave 13x4 HD Lace Frontal for soft waved installs or Brazilian Straight 13x4 HD Lace Frontal for sleek styling.
13x6 Frontal
A 13x6 gives you a deeper top lace area and more front-to-back parting space.
It may be preferable when you want:
- Deeper middle parts
- Deeper side parts
- More lace-visible scalp area
- More styling room across the front
- Fewer upper bundle rows
Compare Brazilian Body Wave 13x6 HD Lace Frontal or Brazilian Straight 13x6 HD Lace Frontal.
For a deeper comparison of the lace itself, read 13x4 vs. 13x6 HD Lace Frontal: Which One Should You Choose?
Are Two Bundles Enough With a Frontal?
Two bundles can be enough for selected short or lightweight frontal installations.
Consider two bundles when:
- The finished length is short.
- You are creating a bob or lob.
- You prefer lightweight natural density.
- The frontal contributes substantial upper hair.
- Your head size requires fewer track rows.
- The bundles provide enough actual weft coverage.
Two bundles become less reliable when:
- The hair is long.
- You want thick straight ends.
- You are using mixed lengths.
- Your head requires broad back coverage.
- You want large, full curls.
- You want substantial side density.
If you are unsure, three bundles give the stylist more flexibility while allowing unused hair to remain uninstalled when the desired density has already been reached.
Are Three Bundles Enough With a Frontal?
For many frontal sew-ins, yes.
Three bundles are a practical starting point when:
- The finished hair is approximately medium length.
- You want natural-to-full density.
- The frontal already provides complete upper coverage.
- The texture is Body Wave, Deep Wave, Water Wave or another texture with visible movement.
- Your head size does not require unusually broad track coverage.
- You are comfortable with natural rather than extremely thick ends.
A three-bundle frontal sew-in can create a complete result without forcing unnecessary wefts near the crown.
Browse Brazilian 3 Bundle Deals for coordinated three-bundle options across multiple textures.
When Do You Need Four Bundles With a Frontal?
A fourth bundle becomes more useful when the style needs additional hair through the middle or longest section—not simply because you want more volume at the crown.
Consider four bundles when:
- You want 22–30 inch hair.
- You want very full ends.
- You are choosing Straight Hair.
- You have a larger head or wider foundation.
- You want large barrel curls.
- You are using graduated lengths with only one bundle at the longest point.
- You want an extra-full event or glam result.
- Your stylist needs additional weft width for complete side coverage.
Browse Brazilian 4 Bundle Deals when the longer or fuller result justifies additional hair.
Which Fourth Bundle Should You Add?
If you need a fourth bundle, do not automatically add another shortest length.
Choose the additional length according to where the finished style lacks density.
Add Another Longest Bundle When:
- The ends are your main concern.
- You want a blunt or dense lower perimeter.
- The set contains only one bundle at the longest measurement.
- You want large curls that remain full through the bottom.
For example, a stylist may prefer 20/22/24/24 instead of 20/22/24 when the 24-inch section needs more density.
Add Another Middle Length When:
- The center section looks thin.
- The transition from frontal to longest hair feels abrupt.
- You want softer long layers.
- You do not need an extremely heavy perimeter.
A configuration such as 20/22/22/24 can build more middle density.
Add Another Shorter Bundle When:
- The shoulders or upper back need more fullness.
- You are building large face-framing layers.
- The frontal-to-bundle transition needs additional support.
Use the Brazilian Single Bundle collection when your stylist wants to add one specific length instead of purchasing another complete set.
How Texture Changes the Number of Bundles You Need
Straight Hair
Straight Hair lies closer together and exposes lower-density areas more clearly.
Three bundles can create a natural medium-length result. A fourth bundle becomes increasingly useful when:
- The hair is 22 inches or longer.
- You want a dense perimeter.
- You prefer a blunt finish.
- You plan to wear the hair bone straight most of the time.
- Your natural preference is a very full install.
A frontal gives the top substantial density, so avoid solving thin ends by stacking additional short tracks around the crown.
Body Wave Hair
Body Wave creates broad S-shaped movement that makes the hairstyle appear fuller than the same amount of hair worn completely straight.
Three bundles with a frontal are suitable for many medium-length Body Wave installations.
Consider four when:
- The hair is extra long.
- You want large cascading curls.
- You want thick ends after brushing the waves out.
- Your mixed-length set contains only one longest bundle.
Body Wave is also useful when you regularly switch between soft waves, large curls and smoother styles.
Deep Wave Hair
Deep Wave creates more visible width and texture than Straight or Body Wave Hair.
A three-bundle frontal installation can already look substantial because the waves occupy more space.
A fourth bundle may be useful for:
- Longer lengths
- Extra-full lower sections
- A very wide silhouette
- More density after the waves are stretched or brushed
Do not install additional tracks solely because the bundles look compact while packaged. Evaluate the opened dry wave pattern.
Water Wave Hair
Water Wave creates fluid, airy movement and visual width.
Three bundles may be sufficient for a balanced medium-length frontal sew-in, while four may provide more complete long ends.
Match the frontal texture carefully so the top does not appear smoother or more defined than the bundles.
Deep Curly Hair
Deep Curly creates a larger silhouette because each curl occupies space horizontally as well as vertically.
More bundles are not automatically better.
An excessive amount of curly hair can create:
- An oversized crown
- Too much side width
- Difficulty reaching the scalp
- Long drying times
- Unnecessary installation weight
Begin with the intended curl volume rather than assuming long curls always need four bundles.
Kinky Curly Hair
Kinky Curly provides substantial root and overall volume.
Three bundles with a frontal can create a very full appearance depending on the length and head size.
A fourth bundle is most useful when the lower section genuinely lacks density—not when the goal is simply maximum hair.
Does 13x6 Need Fewer Bundles Than 13x4?
Sometimes, but not necessarily an entire bundle fewer.
A 13x6 frontal occupies more of the upper head than a 13x4, so the stylist may use less bundle weft around the top.
But both frontal sizes still leave most of the back and lower lengths dependent on the bundles.
Think of it this way:
- 13x6 changes upper coverage.
- Bundle count changes overall and lower density.
If you are choosing 26-inch Straight Hair, moving from a 13x4 to a 13x6 does not automatically make three long bundles as full at the ends as four.
Frontal Length Also Matters
The length of the hair attached to the frontal affects where its density contributes to the finished style.
A shorter frontal primarily contributes:
- Hairline density
- Crown density
- Face-framing hair
- Upper movement
A longer frontal contributes farther into the middle lengths.
However, even a long frontal usually does not create the same lower-back density as an additional longest bundle.
When choosing frontal length, think about the finished layers rather than attempting to use the frontal as a replacement for a long bundle.
Same-Length Bundles With a Frontal
Same-length bundles place more hair at one measurement.
For example, three 24-inch bundles all contribute to the 24-inch section.
This can create:
- Fuller ends
- A denser perimeter
- More hair available for custom cutting
- A stronger straight finish
A same-length configuration can sometimes make three bundles feel fuller at the longest point than a graduated three-bundle set.
Mixed-Length Bundles With a Frontal
A mixed-length configuration creates natural graduation.
For example:
- 20 inches creates upper and middle layers.
- 22 inches creates middle and lower density.
- 24 inches creates most of the longest section.
This gives you:
- Natural-looking layers
- Softer movement
- A gradual shape
- Less cutting to create long layers
The tradeoff is that only one bundle may reach the longest measurement.
When full ends are important, adding a second longest bundle can be more useful than adding another short bundle.
3 Bundles + Frontal vs. 4 Bundles + Frontal
| Comparison | 3 Bundles + Frontal | 4 Bundles + Frontal |
|---|---|---|
| Overall feel | Natural to full | Full to extra full |
| Medium lengths | Usually practical | May be unnecessary unless extra density is desired |
| Extra-long lengths | Natural or lighter lower density | More support for full ends |
| Straight texture | Good for natural density | Better when dense ends are important |
| Curly texture | Can already appear very full | Use only when the desired silhouette supports the additional volume |
| Foundation weight | Lower | Higher if every bundle is installed |
| Stylist flexibility | Enough for many standard installs | More hair available for custom density and cutting |
Does Head Size Affect Bundle Count?
Yes. Two customers using the same frontal and lengths may require different amounts of bundle hair.
A larger foundation may need:
- Longer track rows
- More side coverage
- More total weft
- Additional hair behind the frontal
A smaller head may not comfortably support every track from four full bundles.
If the desired density is reached before all the hair is installed, keep the unused weft rather than overcrowding the foundation.
How the Braid Pattern Changes Bundle Quantity
The braid-down determines where the frontal sits and how much area remains for bundles.
A 13x6 frontal requires a deeper flat top section than a 13x4 frontal.
The remaining foundation can vary according to:
- Head shape
- Frontal placement
- Braid size
- Track spacing
- Parting direction
- Desired side density
A foundation with fewer available upper rows may use less total weft than a traditional Leave-Out sew-in.
That does not change how much density you need at the longest visible point.
Deep Side Parts Can Need More Side Density
A deep side part directs more frontal and bundle hair toward one side of the head.
The heavier side can look full near the face while the opposite side or back appears lighter.
Your stylist may distribute extra bundle hair to:
- The heavier side
- The lower back
- The side perimeter
- The longest section
A fourth bundle can be useful when a long side-part style requires both front volume and full lower density.
Middle Parts Need Balanced Density
A middle part distributes the frontal hair more evenly.
This makes it easier to judge whether the left and right sides contain similar fullness.
For a clean middle-part frontal sew-in:
- Keep the crown flat.
- Distribute bundles evenly.
- Avoid concentrating the longest hair only in the center back.
- Make sure both side ends look complete.
- Match the frontal and bundles in texture and color.
How Many Bundles for a Frontal Bob?
A frontal bob generally needs fewer bundles than an extra-long sew-in because shorter bundles provide more usable track coverage and more hair around the perimeter.
Two to three bundles can be a practical range depending on:
- Bob length
- Blunt or layered shape
- Head size
- Straight or Body Wave texture
- Desired thickness
A dense blunt bob may need more hair than a softly layered lob even when both use similar lengths.
Do not install four bundles automatically into a short bob. Excess hair can make the crown and sides difficult to shape cleanly.
How Many Bundles for a 20-Inch Frontal Sew-In?
Three bundles are a practical starting point for many 20-inch frontal sew-ins.
Choose three when you want:
- Natural-to-full density
- Balanced everyday hair
- Body Wave, Deep Wave or similar texture
- A manageable foundation
Consider four when:
- You want extra-full Straight Hair.
- You have a larger head.
- You want dense large curls.
- The longest section still looks light after placement planning.
How Many Bundles for a 22- to 24-Inch Frontal Sew-In?
Three bundles can create a natural long result, while four bundles give the stylist more control over the lower density.
The four-bundle option becomes more useful when:
- The style is Straight.
- You want full ends.
- The lengths are graduated.
- You want a deep side part.
- You want substantial event curls.
How Many Bundles for a 26- to 30-Inch Frontal Sew-In?
For extra-long hair, four bundles are a useful planning point when full ends are a priority.
Long bundles generally provide less track coverage than shorter bundles, and a graduated set may have only one bundle at the longest measurement.
Three bundles can still work when:
- You prefer lighter density.
- The texture creates substantial volume.
- The head size is smaller.
- You choose same-length bundles with enough lower density.
- The bundle construction produces fuller ends.
Do not decide only from length. Compare the complete finished silhouette you want.
Can You Use Two Bundles and a 13x6 Frontal?
Yes, particularly for shorter or medium-length lightweight styles.
The deeper frontal reduces upper bundle coverage, making two bundles more realistic than they would be in some Leave-Out installations.
However, two bundles may still look insufficient when:
- The hair is very long.
- The texture is Straight.
- You want full lower ends.
- The head requires wide back coverage.
- You want dramatic density.
A larger frontal should not be used as a substitute for enough lower hair.
Can You Use Four Bundles With a 13x6 Frontal?
Yes, when the remaining foundation can support the hair comfortably and the finished style genuinely requires that density.
The stylist may not need every inch of all four bundles.
A practical strategy is:
- Install the frontal correctly.
- Begin with the longest lower bundle.
- Build the back and sides gradually.
- Assess the density before approaching the crown.
- Use the fourth bundle only where additional hair is needed.
- Save clean unused weft rather than forcing it into the top.
Should the Frontal Match the Bundle Texture?
Yes, unless your stylist has intentionally designed a mixed-texture installation.
Match the frontal and bundles in:
- Texture
- Color
- Wave or curl size
- Luster
- Root volume
- Finished styling
A Deep Wave frontal over Body Wave bundles may create a visible top-to-bottom pattern change even when the bundle count is correct.
Browse the complete Brazilian Lace Frontals collection after choosing your bundle texture.
Should the Frontal Be the Same Length as the Bundles?
It does not need to match the longest bundle.
The frontal begins at the top of the head, so a shorter frontal can create natural upper layers while longer bundles create the lower lengths.
Choose frontal length according to:
- Desired face framing
- Middle or side part
- Bundle lengths
- Texture shrinkage
- Finished haircut
A very short frontal paired with extra-long bundles may create a disconnected top layer, so the stylist needs enough intermediate hair to connect the lengths.
Does Double Drawn Hair Change the Bundle Count?
Double Drawn hair contains a higher proportion of strands that extend closer to the full labeled length, creating fuller-looking middle lengths and ends.
Because the lower density is stronger, three Double Drawn bundles may create the end fullness that some customers would otherwise pursue with additional standard hair.
However, Double Drawn construction does not automatically increase the amount of track available for covering a large foundation.
Choose it when your priority is:
- Dense ends
- A substantial straight perimeter
- Large curls with full lower sections
- Less natural taper
Frontal Sew-In vs. Frontal Wig: Bundle Quantity
A custom frontal wig and a frontal sew-in may both use a frontal plus bundles, but the quantity can differ because the construction surface is different.
A wig maker must account for:
- Cap size
- Frontal placement
- Machine or hand sewing
- Weft spacing
- Finished wig density
- Whether the wig will be cut or layered
Do not assume the same bundle count from your previous sew-in will automatically produce the same density in a custom wig.
Signs You Need More Bundle Hair
You may need additional hair when:
- The lower back looks transparent.
- The sides appear disconnected from the front.
- The frontal looks much fuller than the bundles.
- The longest section forms only a narrow strip down the back.
- Large curls show obvious gaps.
- Your natural-density preference is not being met.
- The actual weft width cannot cover the planned foundation.
Signs You Have Too Much Hair
More hair is not always an upgrade.
You may have excessive density when:
- The frontal lies flat but the crown behind it forms a ridge.
- The side profile looks unusually wide.
- The installation feels unnecessarily heavy.
- Tracks must be stacked closely to fit.
- The curly texture creates an oversized silhouette.
- The frontal hairline looks delicate while the back appears extremely dense.
- The stylist needs to force unused hair into areas that are already full.
Leave unused weft out of the installation when the intended shape is complete.
How to Order the Right Combination
- Choose the texture first. Decide whether you want Straight, Body Wave, Deep Wave, Water Wave or Curly Hair.
- Choose 13x4 or 13x6. Base this on real parting needs rather than assuming larger lace is always better.
- Choose the finished length. Think about where the dry hair should fall on the body.
- Choose same or mixed bundle lengths.
- Decide how full the ends should look.
- Start with three bundles for many medium-length installs.
- Consider four for longer lengths or fuller ends.
- Choose the fourth length strategically.
- Confirm head size and braid pattern with the installer.
- Do not alter unused hair until the required quantity is confirmed.
Common Frontal and Bundle Buying Mistakes
Assuming the Frontal Replaces Exactly One Bundle
The frontal mainly replaces upper coverage. It does not automatically provide lower density.
Buying Four Bundles for Every Length
A short curly frontal sew-in may become unnecessarily heavy with four complete bundles.
Buying Only Two Bundles Because the Frontal Looks Large
The frontal does not cover most of the back or longest section.
Choosing 13x6 Only to Use Less Hair
Choose 13x6 for deeper lace coverage and parting space—not as a bundle-saving strategy.
Adding the Wrong Fourth Length
If the ends are thin, another shortest bundle will not solve the lower-density problem.
Ignoring Texture
Three Kinky Curly bundles and three Straight bundles can create very different visible volume.
Ignoring Head Size
The same bundle combination will not cover every foundation identically.
Matching Frontal and Bundles by Color Only
The wave pattern and luster must coordinate as well.
Forcing Every Purchased Weft Onto the Head
Unused hair is preferable to an overcrowded, uncomfortable crown.
Judging Fullness Only From the Front
A frontal naturally makes the front look full. Always inspect the back and longest ends.
Questions to Ask Your Stylist Before Ordering
- Should I choose a 13x4 or 13x6 frontal for my preferred part?
- How much foundation will remain for bundles?
- Are three bundles enough for my head size?
- Does my selected texture need more or less density?
- Will my longest ends look full with only one longest bundle?
- Should the fourth bundle repeat the longest or middle length?
- Should I choose same-length or graduated bundles?
- What frontal length blends into my selected bundle lengths?
- Will the style be Straight, waved or curled most often?
- How much hair will be cut during layering?
- Can the foundation comfortably hold four bundles?
- Should unused hair remain uninstalled?
Quick Buying Guide
- Short frontal bob: consider 2–3 bundles.
- 16–20 inch natural fullness: begin with 3 bundles.
- 22–24 inch natural fullness: 3 bundles can work; compare 4 for fuller ends.
- 26–30 inch hair: consider 4 bundles when full ends matter.
- Long Straight Hair: lean toward more lower density.
- Body Wave: 3 bundles work well for many medium-length installs.
- Deep Wave or curly hair: assess the opened texture before adding maximum density.
- 13x6 frontal: expect fewer upper tracks, but do not automatically reduce the lower bundle count.
- Thin longest ends: add another longest bundle.
- Thin middle section: add an intermediate length.
- Maximum end fullness: compare same-length or Double Drawn bundles.
- Custom quantity: add a Brazilian Single Bundle instead of another full set.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bundles do I need with a frontal?
Three bundles are a practical starting point for many medium-length frontal sew-ins. Four may be more suitable for longer lengths, fuller ends or an extra-full result.
Are two bundles enough with a frontal?
They can be enough for shorter, lightweight styles because the frontal provides substantial upper coverage. Longer styles usually need more bundle hair through the back and ends.
Are three bundles enough with a 13x4 frontal?
Yes, three bundles are suitable for many medium-length 13x4 frontal installs. Consider four when the hair is extra long or you want dense ends.
Are three bundles enough with a 13x6 frontal?
Yes. A 13x6 covers even more of the upper foundation than a 13x4. Three bundles can create a balanced result at many medium lengths.
Do you need fewer bundles with a 13x6 frontal?
Potentially fewer upper tracks, but not necessarily one full bundle fewer. The back, sides and longest ends still depend on the bundles.
Can I use four bundles with a frontal?
Yes. Four bundles are useful for extra-long hair, full ends and high-density styles when the foundation can support the additional hair comfortably.
How many bundles do I need with a frontal for 20-inch hair?
Three bundles are a practical starting point. Consider a fourth for extra-full Straight Hair, larger head sizes or particularly dense styling.
How many bundles do I need with a frontal for 24-inch hair?
Three can create natural fullness, while four provide more flexibility for full ends—especially with Straight or mixed-length hair.
How many bundles do I need with a frontal for 30-inch hair?
Four bundles are a useful planning point for an extra-long full result. Three may still work for lighter density or highly voluminous textures.
Does a frontal count as a bundle?
No. A frontal is a separate lace hairpiece. It contributes hair to the front and top but does not provide the same back and lower coverage as a bundle.
Does a frontal replace one bundle?
Not automatically. It reduces the number of upper tracks but may not reduce the hair needed for full middle lengths and ends.
Should I get three bundles or four with a frontal?
Choose three for many medium-length, natural-to-full installs. Choose four when you want longer hair, thicker ends, additional track coverage or an extra-full result.
Should my fourth bundle be the longest length?
If your longest ends are thin, yes. If the middle section lacks fullness, repeating an intermediate length may create a better shape.
Do curly frontal sew-ins need four bundles?
Not automatically. Curly hair creates significant visual volume, so three bundles may already produce a full silhouette depending on length and head size.
Do straight frontal sew-ins need more bundles?
Straight Hair exposes lower-density areas more clearly, so longer straight styles are more likely to benefit from a fourth bundle or fuller-end construction.
Does a frontal need to be the same length as the bundles?
No. A shorter frontal can form the upper layer while longer bundles create the lower lengths. The difference should be gradual enough for the stylist to blend naturally.
Can I combine a 13x6 frontal with four bundles?
Yes, but the stylist should install only the amount the foundation needs. The deeper frontal leaves less upper space for bundle tracks.
Which is better: three same-length bundles or three mixed lengths?
Same-length bundles generally provide greater density at one finished measurement. Mixed lengths create easier graduation and long layers.
Final Choice: Let the Frontal Cover the Top and the Bundles Build the Length
For most medium-length frontal sew-ins, start with three bundles plus a matching frontal.
Move to four bundles when the hair is longer, the texture is Straight, the longest ends need more density or you want a noticeably fuller finished result.
Choose 13x4 when standard frontal depth supports your preferred styles. Choose 13x6 when deeper parting space is important. Do not choose 13x6 only because you expect it to eliminate the need for sufficient bundle hair.
Browse Brazilian Lace Frontals, then coordinate the texture with Brazilian 3 Bundle Deals or Brazilian 4 Bundle Deals. If your stylist recommends one additional specific length, use the Brazilian Single Bundle collection instead of changing the entire set.
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