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How to Use This Calculator
Building your perfect starter kit takes just three selections:
- Hair type: Select thick, medium, thin/fine, or curly. This determines clip sizes, tooth spacing, and accessory types that will actually work for you.
- Primary use case: Choose whether you need accessories for everyday casual wear, professional settings, special occasions, or an all-around versatile collection.
- Budget: Select your spending range—$25-50 for basics, $50-75 for quality variety, or $75-100 for premium pieces.
Once you click "Build My Kit," you'll see a customized accessory list with estimated prices and specific product recommendations.
Understanding Your Results
Your personalized kit includes several key elements:
- Itemized kit list: Each recommended accessory with its purpose (Essential, Backup, Accessory, etc.) and individual pricing.
- Recommended clip size: Your optimal claw clip size based on hair type—want more precision? Use our clip size calculator for detailed sizing.
- Estimated total: Approximate cost to build your complete kit (actual prices may vary by retailer).
- Use case tips: Specific advice for your selected use case (professional colors, occasion styling, etc.).
- Product matches: Real products from our database that match your hair type.
Why You Need a Complete Hair Accessory Kit
Building a hair accessory collection piece by piece is expensive and frustrating. You end up with three clips that don't work for your hair type, bobby pins that disappear, and no scrunchies when you actually need one.
A strategic starter kit solves this problem. By choosing pieces that work together for your specific hair type and lifestyle, you'll have everything you need—and nothing you don't. Our calculator above builds a personalized kit based on your hair and how you plan to use it.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Starter Kit
Every good hair accessory kit needs four components:
1. The Primary Clip
This is your workhorse—the clip you'll reach for most days. It should be the right size for your hair type and versatile enough for multiple styles. Use our clip size calculator if you're unsure what size you need.
For most people, a quality claw clip in a neutral color (tortoiseshell, black, or cognac) is the best choice. It works for work, weekends, and everything in between.
2. The Backup/Alternative Clip
Having a second clip serves two purposes: you have a backup if your primary breaks, and you have variety for different moods or outfits. Consider a different size or style—if your primary is large for updos, your backup might be medium for half-up styles.
3. Bobby Pins
Every kit needs bobby pins for finishing touches, securing flyaways, and creating more elaborate styles. A 50-100 pack is enough for most people. See our bobby pin calculator if you do elaborate styles frequently.
4. A Soft Hold Option
For days when you need a gentler hold—sleeping, lounging, or low-key styling—include a scrunchie or soft tie. Silk or satin scrunchies are ideal for reducing friction and preventing breakage.
Starter Kit by Hair Type
Here's what we recommend based on your specific hair:
Thick Hair Kit
Thick hair needs accessories that can handle volume without popping open or slipping. Your kit should include:
- Large or jumbo claw clip (3-4+ inches) with strong springs
- Medium clip for half-up styles
- 100-pack bobby pins—thick hair eats through pins
- Satin or silk scrunchie for gentle holds
The Machete Grande Claw is our top pick for thick hair—premium acetate construction with springs that actually hold up.
Thin/Fine Hair Kit
Fine hair needs smaller accessories with closer-spaced teeth that can grip without sliding. Your kit should include:
- Small claw clip (1.5-2 inches) with fine teeth
- Mini clips (set of 6) for half-up styles and accents
- 50-pack bobby pins—fine hair needs fewer pins per style
- Silk scrunchie to prevent friction damage
The Kitsch Small Claw Clips (4-Pack) are perfect for fine hair—strong grip without the bulk.
Medium Hair Kit
Medium hair is the most versatile—you have the most options. Your kit should include:
- Medium claw clip (2-3 inches) for everyday styles
- Small clip or mini set for variety
- 100-pack bobby pins
- Snap clips or barrettes for accent pieces
Curly Hair Kit
Curly hair needs accessories designed to work with—not against—your natural texture. Your kit should include:
- Wide-tooth claw clip that won't crush curls
- Octopus grip clip—the flexible design accommodates volume
- 100-pack bobby pins (curly hair benefits from extra security)
- Silk scrunchie set—essential for curl preservation
- Wide barrette for pineapple-style updos
Read our guide to claw clips for curly hair for more specific recommendations.
Budget Breakdown: What You Get at Each Level
Our calculator offers three budget tiers. Here's what to expect:
$25-$50 Budget
The essentials only. This tier gets you started with the basics:
- One quality claw clip in your size
- Bobby pins (50-pack)
- Total: 2 items that cover most daily needs
Best for: Testing whether claw clips work for you, tight budgets, or minimalists.
$50-$75 Mid-Range
The sweet spot for most people. This tier adds variety and backup:
- Primary claw clip
- Secondary clip (different size or style)
- Bobby pins (100-pack)
- Scrunchie set or snap clips
- Total: 4 items that handle any occasion
Best for: Most people building their first complete kit.
$75-$100 Premium
The full collection. Premium materials and complete versatility:
- Premium acetate claw clip
- Secondary quality clip
- Bobby pins (100-pack)
- Silk scrunchie (or set)
- Quality barrette
- Total: 5 items in premium materials
Best for: Anyone wanting investment pieces that last years.
Use Case Considerations
The calculator also asks about your primary use case because it affects what you need:
Everyday/Casual
Focus on comfort and versatility. Neutral colors work with everything. Multiple clips let you rotate and extend lifespan.
Work/Professional
Stick to polished, understated pieces. Tortoiseshell, black, and cognac read as professional. Avoid chunky embellishments or overly trendy styles. See our guide to professional claw clip hairstyles for work.
Special Occasions
Add decorative pieces to your basics. Consider clips with embellishments, metallics, or statement colors. You'll want bobby pins for elaborate updos. Browse elegant hairstyles for weddings and formal events.
All-Around
Build maximum versatility. Include both neutral everyday pieces and a few statement options. This is the most complete approach.
Quality Markers: What to Look For
Not all hair accessories are created equal. Here's what distinguishes quality pieces:
Claw Clips
- Material: Cellulose acetate > acrylic > basic plastic
- Springs: Metal springs > plastic springs
- Teeth: Smooth edges that don't snag hair
- Hinge: Reinforced construction at the stress point
Bobby Pins
- Coating: Rubber or plastic tips prevent scratching
- Tension: Should grip firmly without bending easily
- Finish: Smooth coating that doesn't catch hair
Scrunchies
- Material: Silk or satin for lowest friction
- Size: Match to your hair volume
- Elastic: Should stretch without losing shape
Maintaining Your Kit
Once you've built your kit, here's how to keep it working:
- Store clips flat—standing them up can warp the shape
- Clean clips monthly—buildup affects grip
- Keep bobby pins contained—magnetic containers work great
- Wash scrunchies—silk can be hand-washed, fabric goes in a mesh bag
- Replace when needed—use our replacement calculator for timing
The Math: Kit vs. Individual Purchases
Buying a strategic kit saves money compared to random purchases:
- Random buying: 3-4 clips that don't work + replacements = $60-80 wasted
- Strategic kit: 2-3 clips that actually work = $40-75 invested
Plus, when you buy pieces that work together, you're not constantly looking for "one more thing."
Frequently Asked Questions
How many clips do I really need?
Most people are well-served by 2-3 clips: one primary for daily use, one backup/alternative, and optionally one for special occasions. More than that is nice but not necessary.
Should I buy a pre-made kit or build my own?
Pre-made kits are convenient but rarely optimized for your specific hair. Building your own (with help from our calculator) ensures every piece actually works for you.
What if my kit pieces don't work?
Most quality retailers have good return policies. Test new accessories for a few days before removing tags. If something doesn't work, exchange for a different size or style.
Calculator Limitations
While this calculator provides excellent starting recommendations, keep these factors in mind:
- Prices are estimates: Actual retail prices vary by brand, retailer, and sales. Use our figures for budgeting, then verify at checkout.
- Hair type is simplified: The calculator uses four broad categories. If you have combination hair (fine but dense, or curly but thin), you may need to experiment.
- Use case is subjective: "Professional" looks vary by industry—tech vs. law vs. creative fields. Adjust recommendations to your specific workplace.
- Quality matters: Our kit recommendations assume mid-range quality. Cheaper items may need earlier replacement; premium items may last longer.
- Regional availability: Not all recommended products are available in all countries. Look for similar alternatives with matching specifications.
Planning for a specific event? Our occasion style finder can help you determine if your kit covers what you need.
Ready to Build Your Kit?
Use the calculator above to get your personalized starter kit recommendation. Once you have your list, you can shop confidently knowing each piece is designed for your specific hair type and lifestyle.
Want to know how much you'll save by DIYing your styles? Check out our savings calculator to see the long-term value of your investment.