How to Braid

A braid, though it may appear complicated, is a simple and essential process to learn. It can provide a classic hairstyle on its own or be altered into a complex and modern updo. Braids also form the basis of an endless number of craft projects. Learning how to braid may save you money in the future by enabling you to take on many do-it-yourself projects while opening the doors to your own creativity.

Gather your materials. If you’re working with string, rope or so forth, you’ll need three pieces of equal length. Work with three different colors in the beginning so you don’t get confused as you learn. If you’re braiding hair, separate it into three sections of equal thickness. Tie a knot with all three pieces of string. Make the knot near the end of the strings, and pin or tape it to a stable surface to anchor it as you work. There’s no need to do this with hair, since it has a natural anchor. Spread out the three pieces, whether individual strings or sections of hair. Number them 1, 2 and 3 from left to right. Pass piece 1 over piece 2 so that it falls between 2 and 3, becoming the middle piece. Re-number the pieces 1 through 3, again going from left to right. You’ll notice that piece 1 has become piece 2. Pass piece 3 over piece 2 so that it falls between pieces 1 and 2. It is now the middle piece. Re-number the pieces again to account for their new positions. Continue this process until your braid is as long as you would like. Try to keep even tension as you braid or the thickness of the braid may vary. Gather the strings together at the bottom of a braid made of string, and tie them in a knot just below where your braid ends. Finish a braid of hair by wrapping securely with a hair tie. Have fun experimenting with your braids. Mix materials or make some with many more strands for very thick braids. Always be sure to divide your strands into three equal groups before braiding. Finish braids with decorative ties or ribbons.


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