Learn How to Make a French Braid Hair Style in 3 Easy Steps
A French braid, also known as the French plait, is a popular
hairstyle that has been used for centuries. It is believed that this
hairstyle was invented by a French hairstylist, as its name suggests,
but the exact date remains unknown. Several variations of the French
braid exist – side braids, twists, cornrows, fishtail braid, French
braid crown and Dutch braid, among others. This hairstyle works best
with medium or long hair. As a rule of thumb, if the hair can be tied
into a ponytail, it can be styled into a French braid.
How to Weave French Braids
- Prepare the hair – Brush the hair thoroughly to remove
tangles. Choose a spot at the top of the head where you’d like the
braid to begin. From there, tie the hair into a ponytail. It’s best
to make this part V-shaped. If you want a thicker braid, begin lower
on the head just above your ears. If you want a more intricate
French braid, start with the higher part of the head.
- Weaving – Once you’ve separated the section of hair into
three strands, cross the rightmost strand over the middle strand.
Braid the hair in small and even sections, adding some hair on each
level to the left and right sections of the hair. It is important to
scale hair proportions based on the thickness of the hair and the
desired thickness of the braid. Braid the rest of the hair as far
down as possible.
- Design – The finished braid would have three parts – 1)
the top portion on the scalp, 2) the tail and 3) the pocket behind
the top section. When you’ve reached the end of the hair, tie it off
or clip the end of the braid. You can use any kind of rubber bands,
ribbons or other hair accessories to tie the braids together.
Although many people would say that French braids take longer than
other types of braids, those who have practiced making French braid
hairstyles can easily create one in 5 minutes. Practice by thinning or
widening the base, adding different amounts of hair and increase or
reduce tension. You’ll be surprised at how your fingers eventually
develop a feel for how to form the French braid perfectly. Of course, it
would be very hard to weave French braids if you don’t know how to do
basic braids. It is best to master the basics first before trying the
French braid.
Tips for Easy French Braiding
- To make it easier to weave French braids, use leave-in
conditioner to minimize tangles.
- If you want to have a softer look, hold your hands further from
your head.
- For greater control over the hair, braid it while the hair is
slightly damp.
- Keep hair snug, but avoid pulling hair too tight.
- If you want to keep the braids under control throughout the day,
use gel with the damp hair.
- Loose ends or baby hairs around the French braid can be tucked
in by using a bobby pin. For the short hairs, use gel or hairspray.
- It is better to do this sitting down and avoid leaning on any
hair.
- There are several French braid hair styles available. If you
can’t get the end result you want, you can opt for the Dutch braid,
French-Over or French braid headband.
French braids open endless possibilities for unique variations,
particularly when you learn the 12 other variations of the French braid.
If you don’t get the braid done your first time, be aware that
perfecting this hairstyle takes getting used to. As the old saying goes…
practice makes perfect. |
