17 Curlformer Styles That Give You Perfect Spirals Every Time

Understanding Your Curlformer Kit: The Basics First

Before we jump into the styles, let’s get familiar with the tools. Curlformers are long, flexible plastic rods with a hooked end. You use a special latch hook to pull sections of hair through the rod from tip to root. As the hair dries inside the formers, it sets into the shape of the tube, creating a uniform curl. Kits typically come in various sizes, often numbered or color-coded. Lower numbers (like 1-4) create tighter, smaller spirals, while higher numbers (like 9-12) create looser, larger waves or spirals. Most styles are achieved by mixing and matching these sizes and their placement on your head.

The Classic Full Head Spiral Set

This is the foundational technique. Using one consistent size of Curlformer all over your head gives you a uniform head of spirals. It’s perfect for creating dramatic, cohesive volume and definition. For a classic spiral look, opt for a mid-range size (like a 6 or 7). The key here is to take clean, horizontal sections and ensure each section is fully saturated with your styling product (a curl cream or mousse works wonders) before applying the former.

The Tighter Roots, Looser Ends Blend

This style adds incredible dimension and a more natural, grown-out feel. Start by applying a tighter Curlformer (size 2-4) to the first two inches of hair at your roots. Then, without letting go, immediately attach a looser Curlformer (size 8-10) to the remaining length. This technique gives you fantastic root lift and volume while allowing the ends to flow in softer, more relaxed spirals.

The Crown Volume Booster

If flat roots are your nemesis, this style is for you. Isolate the top section of your hair (from the front of your ears to the crown). Use smaller, tighter Curlformers in this area only. For the rest of your hair, use your preferred larger size. This strategically places the most volume and lift where you need it most, creating a beautiful, rounded silhouette that lasts for days.

The Face-Framing Spiral Bangs

Don’t neglect your fringe! Using a few small or medium Curlformers on your face-framing layers or bangs can create stunning, eye-catching spirals that highlight your features. Curl them away from your face for an open, lifted look or towards your face for a more romantic, cascading effect. This style works beautifully even if you don’t do a full set.

The “Halo” Curls for Updos

This technique is a secret weapon for elegant updos. Apply Curlformers only to the top and side perimeter layers of your hair—the parts that would be visible in a ponytail, bun, or half-up style. Leave the underlayers straight or barely waved. Once set, these perfectly spiraled “halo” curls will create a gorgeous, polished frame for any updo with minimal effort.

The Spiral Ponytail Base

For the ultimate voluminous ponytail, do a full head of spiral curls. Once completely dry and taken down, gently gather your hair into a high or mid-height ponytail. The spirals will create insane body, and the look will be full of texture and movement. Secure with a scrunchie or coil-friendly hair tie to maintain definition.

The Defined Twist-Out Alternative

If you love the look of a twist-out but crave more uniform definition, use Curlformers as your setting tool. Apply a generous amount of butter or cream to small sections, twist them two or three times, and then immediately pull the twisted section through a Curlformer. This hybrid method gives you the perfectly cylindrical, frizz-free spirals of a Curlformer with the textured feel of a twist-out.

The “Botticelli” Waves with Spiral Ends

Create a romantic, Renaissance-inspired look. Use the largest Curlformers (size 11 or 12) on the majority of your hair length to create soft, flowing waves. Then, use small or medium formers (size 4-6) just on the very last inch of your ends. This gives you beautiful, loose body with a hint of playful, spiraled ends.

The Partial Set for Second-Day Magic

Short on time? Only apply Curlformers to the areas that need a refresh or more definition. Often, the front and top sections lose their shape first. Applying a partial set of 10-15 formers just in these areas can revive your entire style without re-doing your whole head. It’s a major time-saver!

The Super-Tight Coily Set

For type 4 hair seeking intense, elongated definition, smaller Curlformers (sizes 1-3) are your best friend. Apply on stretched, well-moisturized hair for the best results. This set will give you incredible length retention, stretched definition, and a stunning spiral pattern that might be hard to achieve with other no-heat methods. Always use a rich leave-in conditioner to prevent dryness.

The Voluminous Side Part

Before applying your Curlformers, create a deep side part. When applying the formers on the larger side of the part, take vertical sections and angle the former slightly back away from your face. On the smaller side, take smaller sections. This technique builds volume strategically to accentuate the side part for a glamorous, old-Hollywood effect.

The “Curlformer Roll” for Blunt Cuts

If you have a blunt bob or lob, avoid a “Christmas tree” shape by rolling the ends. When pulling your hair through the former, stop about 1-2 inches from the end. Then, manually roll the remaining end up onto the former before closing it. This ensures the very ends get curled under, creating a cohesive, rounded shape at your hemline.

The Two-Row Perimeter Set

Perfect for shorter hair or for adding under-layer volume. Apply Curlformers only to the hair around the perimeter of your head, in two neat rows. This gives you beautiful, defined curls where they are most visible—around your face and at the back—while leaving the interior hair free for quicker drying or a different texture.

The Spiral Accent Braids

After taking down your Curlformer set, incorporate a few small braids. Braid two or three spiraled sections close to your scalp, then let the rest of the spiraled hair flow free. Once the braids are dry and taken down, you’ll have a stunning mix of spirals and crimped waves for a bohemian, textured look.

The “Wet Set” for Maximum Definition

For the most defined, long-lasting spirals, apply your Curlformers to soaking wet hair loaded with a strong-hold gel. This “wet set” technique locks the hair into the spiral shape as it dries, minimizing frizz and maximizing shine and hold. Be prepared for a longer drying time, but the results are unparalleled.

The “Damp Set” for Softer Hold

If you prefer a softer, more touchable feel, apply your Curlformers to damp, towel-dried hair with a mousse or light cream. This allows for a bit more natural movement and a less rigid finish while still providing beautiful spiral formation. It’s ideal for those who like to scrunch their curls once dry.

The Overnight Drying Strategy

For those with thick or low-porosity hair, drying can take forever. Make Curlformers your overnight solution. Apply them in the evening, sleep on a satin pillowcase (they’re surprisingly comfortable to sleep in!), and wake up to completely dry, perfect spirals. Protect them with a satin bonnet or scarf for best results.

Pro Tips for Perfect Spirals Every Time

Product is Key: Always use a smoothing styler. A curl cream, mousse, or gel will coat the hair, helping it slide into the former smoothly and set without frizz. For thicker hair, a leave-in conditioner under your styler is a must.

Section Neatly: The cleaner your sections, the more uniform your spirals will be. Use hair clips to separate hair you’re not working on.

Be Patient: Do not take the formers out until your hair is 100% completely dry. Any dampness will cause the curl to fall or frizz. Use a hooded dryer or diffuser attachment to speed up the process.

Take Down Gently: When removing, slowly unwind each former from the hook end—don’t just yank it out. Then, gently separate the spiral with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, and finish with a light oil to scrunch out any crunch and add shine.Mastering Curlformers is about experimentation and finding the style that makes you feel most confident. With these 17 techniques in your styling arsenal, you’re equipped to conquer any curl goal. From everyday uniform spirals to special-occasion volume, the power to create perfect spirals every time is now in your hands—no heat required. So grab your kit, pick a style, and get ready to fall in love with your curls all over again.