Braiding hair is a beautiful and practical skill that feels like a secret superpower. Whether you’re looking for a simple style to keep hair out of your face or an intricate look for a special occasion, learning to braid opens up a world of possibilities. It might seem tricky at first, but with a little patience and practice, you’ll be creating beautiful patterns in no time.
Getting Started with a Basic Three-Strand Braid
This is the foundation for almost every other braid. Begin by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Gather a section of hair at the top of your head and divide it into three equal strands. Hold the left strand in your left hand and the right strand in your right hand, with the middle strand secured by your fingers.
Cross the right strand over the middle strand. Your right strand is now the new middle. Then, cross the left strand over the new middle strand. It becomes the new middle. Continue this pattern—right over middle, left over middle—all the way down. Secure the end with a small hair elastic. The key is to keep your tension even for a neat, consistent braid.
Essential Tips for a Smoother Braiding Experience
A little preparation makes a big difference. If your hair is very soft or slippery, try braiding when it’s slightly dirty, as the natural oils provide more grip. You can also use a texturizing spray for better hold. Don’t pull the strands too tightly, as this can cause discomfort. For a more relaxed, bohemian look, gently pull the sides of the braid apart after you’ve finished to make it appear fuller and softer.
Moving Beyond the Basics: The French Braid
Once you’ve mastered the three-strand braid, the French braid is a wonderful next step. Instead of starting with all your hair, you begin at the crown, adding in small sections of hair from the sides as you braid. Start with a small section at the top and divide it into three. After you cross a strand over to the middle, use your free finger to gather a small section of hair from that side and combine it with the strand before crossing it over. This technique incorporates all the hair from the scalp down into a beautiful, woven pattern.
Why Braiding is Great for Your Hair
Beyond being stylish, braids are incredibly beneficial for your hair’s health. A loose braid before bed helps prevent tangles and reduces friction that can cause breakage while you sleep. It also helps protect your hair from the elements and is a fantastic way to style second or third-day hair without using heat from styling tools.
Braiding is a journey of practice and creativity. Start with the simple three-strand braid and celebrate each small success. Before long, you’ll be able to create a variety of beautiful styles that are both functional and elegant.