how do you curl long hair

How do you currently curl it? Just scrunching with mousse? Does this mean your hair has some natural curl?  When it is long does it lose the curl? Is this what you mean?

I'm assuming you are looking for a gentle way to curl that does not damage hair.  Sock curling does seem like a good idea, however if you don't want to put in any time, then maybe a perm? Bear in mind that this will cause some damage though.  I don't really think that any of the "gentle" methods are particularly quick.....at least at first.  Maybe if you practice enough, they will become easier and quicker.

If you do have natural curl, then I suggest having a read of Lorraine Massey's book "Curly Girl", maybe your natural curl will be enough when you learn to look after it so that the curl is maximised. Her tips are very time-saving anyway.

Good luck with your growing!

I have longish (BSL) hair that is resistant to curling. My hair does have natural wave to it though, and I find that if I mix 1tbsp jojoba oil, 2 tbsp aloe vera gel (not the green stuff you put on sunburns... the stuff intended for drinking - buy it at Whole Foods or other health food stores) and 3oz of spring water, and spray it in my hair after washing, it makes the waves more defined. It also cuts WAY down on the frizzies.

The other thing I do is I only shampoo my scalp. I put conditioner on the length of my hair to protect it from the shampoo, wash my scalp, then condition ALL of my hair.

My hair is happy now.