The Ultimate Guide to Volume Fan Design: Narrow vs. Medium vs. Wide vs. Closed

By I AM Lash

Volume Fans

Why fan geometry is everything

In volume lashing, fan geometry determines the entire look of the set — not just density, but the top-line finish and overall style. Each lash fan type has its own purpose, and choosing the right one is key to keeping the set cohesive and professional.

One important thing to take in consideration:

Only mix fans strategically within the same set, to avoid uneven steps along the top line, breaking the flow of the design. Whichever fan style you choose, stick with it from start to finish for a consistent, polished look. With exception of closed fans (used for spikes or wet looks).

Narrow (Tight) Volume Fans

Definition: Small opening distance between lash tips; compact spread.

Effect: Creates uniform, dense, darker lash lines with no visible gaps. Because the tips are close together, the top line appears solid and continuous.

Best for:

  • Volume and mega volume sets
  • Perfectly sharp, clean top lines
  • Clients wanting bold density

I AM Lash PRO recommendations:

  • Fine Axe Volume Tweezers – precise grip for tight fans
  • 0.07 Smooth Collection Volume Lashes – consistent fibres for controlled openings

Medium (Standard) Volume Fans

Definition: Moderate opening width — wider than narrow, tighter than wide.

Effect: Creates softer, fluffier top lines while still looking tidy. The density is lighter than narrow fans but more structured than wide.

Best for:

  • Softer volume sets
  • Clients who want a balance of density and fluff
  • Hybrid designs (when paired only with closed fans for spikes)

I AM Lash PRO recommendations:

  • Mini Boot Tweezers – effortless fan creation at moderate openings
  • 0.07 or 0.06 Volume Lashes – choose depending on natural lash strength

Wide Volume Fans

Definition: Large opening distance, creating a bold “palm tree” style spread.

Effect: Very fluffy, airy, and dramatic. Often used for American-style volume sets. Can appear messier along the top line compared to narrow or average fans.

Best for:

  • American-style volume
  • Clients wanting bold, airy texture
  • Looks where fluff takes priority over perfect top lines

I AM Lash PRO recommendations:

  • 90 Volume Tweezers for confident wide spreads
  • 0.05 Volume Lashes to keep weight light on natural lashes

Closed Volume Fans

Definition: Tips meet or nearly meet — no visible opening.

Effect: Ideal for wet look sets or for creating spikes in wispy designs. Adds height and definition without bulk.

Best for:

  • Wet lash looks
  • Spikes in wispy or Kim K sets
  • Texture in otherwise uniform sets

I AM Lash PRO recommendations:

  • Fine Axe Tweezers for precise closed-tip control
  • 0.07 or 0.06 Lashes (used sparingly) for defined spikes

Final Word on Volume Fan Selection

  • Choose one fan type — narrow, medium, or wide — and stick to it for the whole set to maintain an even top line.
  • Only mix types of volume fans strategically to avoid uneven, messy top lines, with exception for closed fans.
  • Your choice of fan type should match your client’s desired density, top-line style, and overall look.

With the right technique, lash fan type, and tools, your volume sets will not only look beautiful but also stay consistent from inner to outer corner.

I AM Lash ♥️