French braids look like they are difficult to do, but they’re really just slightly different from regular braids. With a little practice, you’ll be able to give yourself and your friends this beautiful hairstyle.
All you really need to do a French braid are your hands and something to hold the braid when it’s done. You may find a comb useful, especially a rat-tail, or long-handled, type. If you are doing the braid on yourself, you may feel more comfortable looking in a mirror. However, since most of what you’ll be doing will be behind you, you won’t really be able to see anything.
French braids are a classic hairstyle that can elevate any look, whether you’re going to work, a party, or just hanging out with friends. And the best part? You don’t need to go to a salon to get this beautiful look – you can easily do it yourself at home, even if you’re a beginner. Here’s how:
Step 1: Start with clean,
dry hair Before you begin braiding, make sure your hair is clean and completely dry. Brush out any tangles, and if you have particularly unruly hair, you might want to apply a bit of hair oil or serum to tame it.
Step 2: Section your hair Next,
divide your hair into three sections: a top section, a middle section, and a bottom section. Clip the top and middle sections out of the way, leaving the bottom section loose.
Step 3: Begin braiding
Take a small section of hair from the top of the bottom section and divide it into three equal parts. Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section.
Step 4: Add hair to the braid
Before you cross the right section over the middle section again, pick up a small section of hair from the right side of your head and add it to the right section. Then, cross the right section over the middle section, followed by the left section over the new middle section.
Step 5: Continue braiding
Repeat Step 4 on the left side, picking up a small section of hair from the left side of your head and adding it to the left section. Cross the left section over the middle section, followed by the right section over the new middle section.
Step 6: Secure the braid
Continue braiding, alternating between the right and left sides, and adding hair to the braid as you go. When you reach the end of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie.
Tips for French Braiding Your Own Hair
- Practice, practice, practice! French braiding your own hair can be a bit tricky at first, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t come out perfectly the first time. The more you practice, the better you’ll get.
- Use a mirror. It’s hard to see what you’re doing on the back of your head, so use a mirror to check your progress and make sure your braid is even.
- Start with small sections. If you try to braid too much hair at once, you’ll end up with a messy braid that falls apart quickly. Start with small sections, and add more hair as you get more comfortable.
- Add some texture. If you want your braid to have more texture and volume, gently pull on the sides of the braid to loosen it up a bit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does my hair need to be to French braid it?
Your hair needs to be at least shoulder-length to French braid it. If your hair is shorter than that, you may not be able to get a full French braid, but you can still do a half French braid or a regular braid.
Can I French braid my hair if it’s curly?
Yes, you can French braid curly hair! In fact, French braids can be a great way to keep curly hair under control and prevent frizz. Just make sure your hair is detangled and well-moisturized before you start braiding.
How long does it take to French braid your own hair?
It can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to French braid your own hair, depending on the length and thickness of your hair, and how much experience you have with braiding. The more you practice, the faster you’ll get.
Can I wear a French braid to work or a formal event?
Yes, French braids can be a versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. If you’re going to a formal event, you can make your French braid more polished by smoothing out any flyaways and adding a bit of hair oil or serum for shine.
Can I French braid my own hair if I have layers?
Yes, you can French braid your hair even if you have layers, but it may be a bit trickier to get all the layers to stay in the braid. You may need to use bobby pins to secure any loose pieces.
What’s the difference between a French braid and a regular braid?
The main difference between a French braid and a regular braid is that a French braid is created by adding hair to the braid as you go, whereas a regular braid is created by simply crossing sections of hair over each other. French braids are also typically done closer to the scalp, which gives them a more secure and polished look.
Conclusion
In conclusion, French braiding your own hair for beginners can seem daunting at first, but with a bit of practice and patience, it can be a fun and rewarding hairstyle to master. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a beautiful and stylish French braid that you can wear for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and styles, and remember to have fun with them!
