Watermelon "I really don't want to shave off any of my hair when its still thick and healthy, especially when I'm still frustrated with the basics of wearing."
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I completely understand what you're saying, but you've put yourself in a Catch 22 position because as long as you're 'in-filling' small areas, you may always have trouble getting the hang of the basics.
Its a bit like burning a hole in the arm of a chair.
Yes you can darn the hole, but it will never look as good as replacing the whole section of fabric.