How to Cut a Stacked Bob
Q: Can you show me how to cut a stacked bob? When I have done it in the past, I somehow end up cutting a chunk out of the perimeter. How do you avoid this?
A: A common struggle when cutting a stacked bob is accidentally cutting a hole into the outline near the neck and ears. The trick to avoiding this is setting a flat baseline before you start lifting the hair to build layers. Below, we’ve translated professional haircutting techniques into easy, everyday steps so anyone can master this popular look.
Step 1: Cut the Bottom Edge
• Keep it flat: Start at the very bottom of the hair at the back of the neck. Comb the hair straight down against the skin. Do not pull or lift the hair away from the neck, and don't pull it tight.• Cut your baseline: Cut a straight horizontal line across the bottom.
Why this prevents "chunks": If you lift the hair off the skin while cutting the bottom line (especially near the curves behind the ears), you will accidentally create gaps or holes in your outline. Cutting it flat against the neck first prevents this.
Step 2: Build the Layers
• Let down a thin layer: Drop a lower section of hair in the back and comb it smooth.• Lift at a slope: Pull the hair out from the head at a 45-degree angle (halfway between flat against the neck and sticking straight out).
• Cut at a slope: Tilt your fingers to match that same 45-degree angle and cut. This creates the rounded, stacked layering.
Step 3: Keep Your Hands & Body Positioned Correctly
• Stand directly in front of your work: Always stand right in front of the exact piece of hair you are cutting. Move your body as you move around the head.• Keep fingers parallel: Hold your fingers parallel to the line where you parted the hair.
• Pull hair straight out: Don't pull hair too far to the left or right; pull it straight out from where it grows. This keeps your cutting guide visible and prevents uneven dips.
Step 4: Work Side-to-Side and Check for Symmetry
• Middle to left, then middle to right: Start cutting from the center of the back and work outward to one side. Then go back to the center and work out to the other side.• Check your work: Frequently grab matching strands from the left and right sides and pull them together in the middle to make sure both sides are the exact same length.
Step 5: Style for Maximum Volume
• Blow-dry with a round brush: Dry the hair by placing a round brush underneath the hair at the back of the head, rolling upward to create extra lift.• Add product: Apply a little lightweight mousse or styling gel before drying to hold the volume in place.
See also:
How to cut a dramatic A-line
Would an A-line bob work with curly hair?
What is the difference between an A-line cut, a stacked bob, and a wedge cut?