Braids can be a godsend for people who pursue an active lifestyle. They also can perk up a long hairstyle or provide a complete style by hanging solo down the back or in pigtails. Braids can be incorporated into formal up-do styles and come in a variety of forms, say hairdressers at Long Locks. Braids can be twisted close to the head to form cornrows or tightly wound in a herringbone style. With the right tools and instructions, you can learn to braid.
Step 1
Use a wide-tooth comb to make sure the hair is tangle-free. You want your hair to be smooth and free of even tiny tangles. Divide hair into sections and comb each piece out with a fine-tooth comb to get any small tangles you might have missed. Keep combing throughout the braiding process.
Step 2
If your hair is thin or tends to be flyaway, apply a small amount of gel before you begin braiding. Use a spray bottle to spritz water on your hair as it dries to keep it more malleable.
Step 3
Divide all your hair into three even sections. The most common type of braid is an English braid that typically does not begin at the scalp. An English braid simply requires you to braid the long ends of your hair, or the hair you might put in a loose ponytail in the back. If you are only braiding a portion of your hair, clip back the hair that will not be included in the braid to keep it out of the way.
Step 4
Cross the right piece over the middle piece and tug it tight. Use the point of a rat-tail comb handle to separate the sections. Then cross the left piece over the middle section and pull away on each end to tighten. Repeat the crossover technique, alternating right, then left, until you get to the ends of the hair.
Step 5
Use thinner pieces of hair to make braids that are a part of a bigger style. Try making a narrow braid on one side of your face behind your bangs with three small strands of hair. Or split hair in half and braid each side separately. The crossover technique applies to all braiding processes.
Step 6
Cross the sections underneath of the middle strand to make a Dutch braid, which resembles a French braid that is wound close to the scalp. Instead, the strands are moved under each other, leaving the braid on top of the rest of your hair. Keep crossing each section underneath the other as you continue braiding.
Step 7
Secure the end with a cloth-wrapped ponytail holder. Find small ties to make the end blend better with the braid. Spray lightly with hairspray to keep loose strands in place, especially if your hair is cut in varying lengths.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice the crossover technique on strands of rope or twine before you try it on your hair.
- Remove rings or bracelets that could snag your hair while you're braiding it. Also, make sure nails are smooth; check for hangnails or nail chips that could catch in the braid.
Things You'll Need
- Wide-tooth comb
- Fine-tooth comb
- Comb with a rat tail
- Hair clips
- Covered ponytail ties
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Styling gel
