French braiding your own hair can feel like trying to pat your head and rub your stomach at the same time—a confusing coordination challenge. But what if it didn’t have to be? This classic style is more than just a pretty look; it’s a versatile braid that keeps hair securely off your face and can last for days with minimal fuss. With a little patience and the right technique, you can absolutely master doing it on yourself.
Getting Your Hair and Tools Ready
Start with hair that is slightly textured. Day-old hair or hair lightly misted with texturizing spray works best, as it gives your strands some grip. You will also need two hair ties and a few bobby pins. A mirror setup where you can see the side and back of your head is incredibly helpful. Section off the top portion of your hair, from about your temples back to the crown. This is the hair you will be actively braiding.
The Step-by-Step Braiding Motion
Divide your top section into three equal parts. Now, here is the key difference from a regular braid: instead of crossing the side pieces over the middle, you will cross them under the middle. So, take the right piece and cross it under the middle piece. Then, take the left piece and cross it under the new middle piece. You have just completed the foundation of your French braid.
Adding Hair as You Go
This is the magic part. For your next stitch, before you cross the right piece under the middle, grab a thin section of hair from the right side of your head and combine it with that right piece. Then, cross the now-thicker section under the middle. Repeat on the left side: grab a new section of hair, combine it with the left piece, and cross it under the middle. Keep your hands close to your head for a tighter, neater braid.
Finishing Your Braid with Confidence
Continue this pattern—adding hair to each side section before crossing it under—all the way down your head. Once you run out of hair to add from the sides, simply continue with a regular three-strand braid to the ends of your hair and secure it with an elastic. For a fuller look, you can gently pull on the outer loops of the braid to loosen it and create that soft, bohemian effect.
Your first few attempts might not be perfect, and that is completely okay. The goal is progress, not perfection. Each time you practice, your hands will learn the rhythm. Before you know it, you will be able to create a beautiful, secure French braid all on your own.