Simple Hair Braiding Instructions

Tap to Read ➤ Chandramita Bora

Hair braiding is an old practice, which has evolved through the centuries. Some braids can seem quite difficult to make, especially if you are a beginner. But if you follow the instructions given here and practice regularly, you can definitely master the art of hair braiding.

Hair braiding is an ancient art still cherished by women. Braids are not only simple to create, but also a type of low maintenance hairstyle. Some of the most popular hair braids are the English braid, the French braid, and the trendy black braids.

Beginners may find them a bit difficult to make, but with regular practice, they can create some really beautiful hairstyles with braids. Here are some simple braiding instructions to help you out in the process.

Instructions for Braiding Your Hair

First of all, your hair should be clean and smooth, or free of tangles to weave a braid. For the simple English braid, you can use a wide-toothed comb to untangle your hair. But to weave a French braid, you should use a fine-toothed comb.

If you have curly or wavy hair, then dampen your hair with a small amount of water. Otherwise, you can use products like hairsprays or gels to dampen it. For removing the tangles, gently comb your hair and if necessary, use a conditioner to make your hair smooth and manageable.

The Basic English Braid

Once your hair is properly combed, you can start braiding your hair by dividing it into three equal sections. Comb each one separately. Then take the section of hair on the right hand, and cross it over the middle section so that the right hand section becomes the middle section. Shift this strand to the opposite hand, i.e., to the left hand.

Now, cross the left hand section over the middle section, and then shift it to the right hand. Now, repeat the same process for the right hand section. Continue the process until you achieve the desired length for your braid, and then tie the end of the braid with a ponytail holder.

The French Braid

French braid can be a bit complicated for a beginner. There are basically two types of French braids, which are known as the 'over braid' and the 'under braid' or the 'inverted braid'. The inverted French braid is also known as the Dutch braid, and it gives the look of a braided rope sitting on the top of your hair.

For weaving a French braid (the over braid), take a small section of hair at the crown of your head, and divide it into three equal parts or sections. Cross the section on the right hand side over the middle section, after which cross the left hand section over the middle section.

Now, take a small section of hair on the right side, and add this new section to the original right hand section, and then cross it over the middle section. Now repeat the same procedure for the left hand side.

Continue the process until your braid achieves the desired length. To weave an inverted French braid, follow the same procedure, but cross the right and the left sections under the middle section, instead of crossing them over it.

Black Hair Braiding

There can be different styles of making this braid. However, the basic steps for braiding black hair involves parting the hair into two equal parts. Then section off the entire hair into several parts, where the braids are to be created.

Now, each part has to be divided into three even sections to make several braids. The instructions for making each braid is similar to that of the basic English braid.

Braiding can help control unmanageable tresses, and give you a clean and tidy look. If you find hair braiding a bit confusing and difficult, first practice it on a piece of string or rope before doing it on your hair.