What to Ask Your Barber In Austin

If you’ve ever walked into a barbershop, sat down, and then... kind of just hoped for the best, you’re not alone. Whether you’re in Bouldin Creek, Zilker, or just Googled “barber near me open now,” asking a few simple questions can make all the difference between a decent cut and one you actually love. 

At By Hand Barber, we specialize in scissor-only cuts - no clippers, no fades - just thoughtful work tailored to your hair’s natural shape. the best cut starts with a conversation. 

Start With Your Face and Hair 

One of the first things we’ll look at? Your face shape and hair texture. 

● “What cut works best with my hair?” 

● “What shape do you think suits my face?” 

These are great starting points. A cut that works with your hair’s natural movement (especially in Austin humidity) will last longer, feel better, and require less effort in the mornings. Whether you're rocking waves, curls, or straight strands, we’ll help you figure out what makes sense - not just today, but as it grows out. 

Lifestyle Questions That Make a Difference

Austin isn’t a sit-still kind of city. Between biking through Zilker, paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, or just running between meetings and tacos, your haircut needs to move with you. 

Some solid questions to ask: 

● “How will this cut hold up in the heat or after a workout?” 

● “Can I just wash and go most days?” 

● “How often should I come in to keep it fresh?” 

We’re big on low-maintenance, high-impact styles - especially ones that don’t fall apart in the Texas heat. 

Styling Tips Without the Fuss 

We’re not into product overload. But the right lightweight cream or leave-in conditioner can keep things looking intentional without feeling heavy. Ask us: 

● “What should I use on my hair at home?” 

● “How do I style it without making it crunchy or greasy?”

Whether you’re into an air-dry finish or a polished look, we’ll keep it simple and show you how to handle it with minimal tools and time. 

Let’s Talk Tools & Technique 

Since we’re a scissors-only shop, you won’t hear buzzing clippers here. But that also means you should ask: 

● “How do scissor cuts grow out compared to other cuts?” 

● “What makes this technique better for my hair?” 

Spoiler: scissor cuts grow out softer, which means your shape holds longer, and your hair behaves better in between appointments. It’s one of the reasons our clients tell us their cut still looks solid even after 6+ weeks. 

Understanding Shop Vibe & Policies 

We get it—sometimes things don’t turn out exactly how you imagined, or you just have questions about what’s next. A few good ones to throw out: 

● “What’s your vibe with follow-ups or touch-ups?” 

● “Can I walk in or should I always book ahead?” 

● “How often do most clients come back in?” 

We’re pretty flexible, and always honest about timing. We want you to feel like your best self - whether that’s every two weeks or every two months. 

A Few Communication Tips 

Honestly, the best results happen when there’s a little back-and-forth. A few tips: 

● Bring a photo (or a few). Not for copying - but for vibe. 

● Let us know what’s worked and what hasn’t in the past. 

● Be open to ideas - we’ll always talk it through with you. 

Final Thoughts: It’s Just a Conversation 

The best barbershop visits don’t start with “just a trim.” They start with real questions, real conversation, and a little curiosity. And that’s exactly how we do things at By Hand Barber. We’re not here to give you the same cut as the guy before you. We’re here to help you feel like you - sharp, effortless, and at ease. 

So next time you're searching “barber near me in Austin” or walking through South Lamar wondering where to go - remember, the right cut starts with the right questions. And we’re here for all of them.

Why I Use Scissors Over Clippers

In the world of barbering, the debate between scissors and clippers has been ongoing for decades. As someone who's spent years honing my craft in various barber shops in Austin, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the artistry and precision that scissors provide. While clippers have their place, especially for quick and affordable barber services in Austin, my preference leans heavily toward scissors, particularly when it comes to creating a truly personalized, high-quality haircut.

When I started my journey in hairdressing back in 2008, I quickly realized that the tool a barber chooses can significantly impact the final result. Clippers, no doubt, are efficient, especially in environments where time is of the essence, like in many chain barber shops in Austin. They’re great for achieving certain looks, such as a fade haircut, where uniformity is key. However, in my experience, scissors offer a level of control and customization that clippers simply can’t match.

The primary reason I prefer scissors over clippers is the ability to tailor each cut to the individual. Every client’s hair texture, bone structure, and personal style are unique. With scissors, I can sculpt the hair in a way that complements these nuances, crafting a result that’s both natural and sophisticated. Whether you're looking for a classic barber experience in Austin or something more contemporary, scissors allow me to create a look that truly fits you.

Another reason I favor scissors is the quality of the haircut itself. Scissors cut the hair in a way that encourages a smoother, more polished finish. This is particularly important for clients seeking a premium barber shop experience in Austin, where the expectation is not just for a haircut, but for a work of art. The precision that scissors offer ensures that each strand falls perfectly into place, resulting in a style that not only looks good on the day of the cut but grows out beautifully over time.

I also find that using scissors aligns with my philosophy of intention in barbering. In a world where speed often is prioritized over quality, especially in some affordable barber shops in Austin, taking the time to use scissors allows me to slow down and focus on delivering the best possible outcome. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about crafting a look that the client will love and that will enhance their confidence as they navigate their day-to-day life.

Ultimately, whether you’re after a trendy haircut in Austin or a timeless look, I believe that scissors are the tool of choice for a truly bespoke barbering experience. If you’re tired of the cookie-cutter cuts that clippers often produce and are looking for a more personalized approach, let’s chat about your next haircut.