Braiding your own hair is always a surefire way to look put-together and chic. However, if this is your first attempt, it might take some practice before getting the hang of it. Start by parting your hair down the center and dividing it into three equal sections. Pick up some hair from one area – such as right or left – and cross it to another team to complete this step.
How to Braid Your Hair
Braids are timeless looks perfect for every event, and they are an easy way to keep your hair out of your face while protecting it from heat damage. Braiding your hair may seem intimidating at first, but with the right products and tutorials, you’ll soon become an expert braider! Start by sectioning off three equal sections at the nape of your neck: left, middle, and right. Braid by crossing the right over the middle (once the center strand) until all hair length is covered. Repeat this criss-cross pattern until all your locks have been braided into place.
Basic Braids
There are various styles of braids to explore, but a basic one is a great place to begin. It’s straightforward, and you can add extra designs for more complex looks. Divide your hair into three equal parts – left, middle, and right – then use each section to cross over another strand until reaching the end of your locks. Continue this pattern until all areas have been crossed over! Add extra volume by pulling hair from the right side and weaving it into your braid. Add the same amount when adding a coat to the center strand for an even look.
Three-Strand Braids
Braiding can add volume or cover thin spots on your scalp. In such instances, three-strand braids may be an ideal solution. Start with clean, untangled hair divided into three equal sections, and bring each left and right area over and under the middle one by one. Continue alternating left and right strands under and over the central strand until your braid is complete, then secure it with a hair elastic.
Four-Strand Braids
Four-strand braids offer an upgrade on classic simple braids, making you stand out at special events while remaining easy to create once you master basic braiding techniques. Start by crossing Strand 1 over Strand 2 and Under Strand 3 before crossing Strand 4 across those duplicate two threads to create a ladder-like appearance. Repeat these steps until your braid reaches the nape of your neck, and tie it off. Pancake each braid stitch for added volume and texture for an elegant touch before finishing with hairspray to tame any flyaways.
Five-Strand Braids
A five-strand braid is an elegant hairstyle suitable for people of all ages. Easy to create, this style showcases long ombre hair beautifully and looks particularly striking when combined with a bun in the nape area. To create a 5-strand braid, start with a traditional braid weave, then divide one of the left-side strands from under the first one and move it under it on its right. Finally, do the same on both sides: move one of them over the second one to create a 5-strand braid. Follow this pattern until all strands have been secured, then pinch back the loose ends and use a finishing/shine spray to complete your look.
Six-Strand Braids
Harris recommends having well-combed hair that’s damp but not wet hair to create delicate braids, allowing the strands to twist neatly into clean sections. Beginning with a side part and dividing your hair into three equal sections at the nape of your neck – you should now have left, middle, and suitable areas – begin braiding by alternately flipping each outside strand over to the center strand until reaching the end of your hair. Adjust the strands and secure them with a hair tie for tightened locks.
Seven-Strand Braids
Katniss Everdeen’s hairstyle in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire was created using an intricate seven-strand braid that is difficult to master. However, with this tutorial’s guidance and some practice, it can become your signature style! Start with a side part and divide your hair into three sections, keeping the correct section in one hand while holding onto the left area with another hand. Cross strands from each hand over each other so they meet in the center, then repeat these steps on both hands.
