Braiding short hair can be a bit challenging, but with the right techniques and a little patience, you can achieve stylish and neat braids on your own. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of self-braiding short hair, from preparation to the final touches. Follow these steps to master the art of braiding short hair.
Preparation and Tools
Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the essential tools:
Wide-tooth comb
Fine-tooth comb
Hair clips or pins
Elastic bands
Hair gel or styling cream
Mirror
Wash and Condition Your Hair
Clean hair is easier to work with and results in better-looking braids. Follow these steps:
Shampoo and condition: Use a mild shampoo and conditioner suited for your hair type.
Towel dry: Gently pat your hair with a towel to remove excess water.
Detangle: Use a wide-tooth comb to remove any knots or tangles.
Apply Styling Products
To make your hair more manageable and to help the braids hold, apply styling products:
Hair gel or styling cream: Apply a small amount to your hair to add grip and reduce frizz.
Heat protectant (optional): If you plan to use a blow dryer, apply a heat protectant.
Sectioning Your Hair
Create a Parting
Middle or side parting: Decide where you want your braids to start. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean parting.
Divide Hair into Sections
Horizontal sections: Divide your hair horizontally from ear to ear, creating a top and bottom section.
Vertical sections: Further divide each horizontal section into smaller, manageable sections.
Secure Sections
Use hair clips or pins: Secure each section with clips or pins to keep them out of the way while you work on other sections.
Braiding Techniques for Short Hair
Basic Three-Strand Braid
Start with the Basics
Take a small section: Starting from the front, take a small section of hair.
Divide into three parts: Divide this section into three equal parts.
Cross the strands: Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle.
Continue braiding: Repeat the process, adding hair from the sides as you go.
French Braid
Begin at the Front
Start at the hairline: Take a section of hair from the hairline and divide it into three parts.
Cross strands and add hair: Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle, adding more hair from the sides each time you cross.
Continue downwards: Keep braiding and adding hair until you reach the nape of your neck.
Dutch Braid
Reverse the Process
Start at the hairline: Take a section of hair from the hairline and divide it into three parts.
Cross strands under: Cross the right strand under the middle, then the left strand under the new middle, adding more hair from the sides each time you cross.
Continue braiding: Keep braiding and adding hair until you reach the nape of your neck.
Finishing Touches
Secure the Braids
Elastic bands: Secure the ends of your braids with small elastic bands to keep them in place.
Tame Flyaways
Hair gel or hairspray: Apply a small amount of hair gel or hairspray to smooth down any flyaways or frizz.
Accessorize
Hairpins or clips: Add decorative hairpins or clips to enhance the look of your braids.
Ribbons or beads: For a more playful look, you can incorporate ribbons or beads into your braids.
Tips for Perfect Braids
Practice Makes Perfect
Start with simple braids: Begin with basic braids and gradually move on to more complex styles.
Use a mirror: A mirror can help you see what you’re doing and ensure your braids are neat and even.
Be patient: Braiding short hair can be tricky, so take your time and don’t rush the process.
Maintaining Your Braids
Sleep with a satin scarf: Wrap your hair in a satin scarf at night to protect your braids and reduce frizz.
Avoid excessive manipulation: Try not to touch or fiddle with your braids too much to prevent them from coming undone.
Moisturize regularly: Keep your hair moisturized to maintain the health and appearance of your braids.
SEE ALSO: How to Make Finger Coils on Short Natural Hair?
Advanced Braiding Styles
Fishtail Braid
Create a Fishtail Braid
Divide into two sections: Separate your hair into two equal sections.
Cross small sections: Take a small piece from the outer edge of the right section and cross it over to the left section. Repeat with the left section.
Continue braiding: Continue crossing small sections from each side until you reach the end. Secure with an elastic band.
Crown Braid
Form a Crown Braid
Start at the temple: Take a section of hair from one temple and begin a French or Dutch braid.
Braid around the head: Continue braiding around the head, adding hair as you go.
Join the ends: When you reach the starting point, secure the braid with an elastic band and tuck the end under the braid. Secure with pins.
Boxer Braids
Create Boxer Braids
Divide hair into two sections: Part your hair down the middle, creating two equal sections.
Braid each section: Starting at the front, create a Dutch braid on each section, working your way down to the nape of the neck.
Secure the ends: Secure each braid with an elastic band.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Braids Are Too Loose
Tighten the strands: Make sure you are pulling the strands tight as you braid.
Use smaller sections: Smaller sections can help create tighter braids.
Braids Are Uneven
Check your sections: Ensure that your sections are equal in size.
Use a mirror: A mirror can help you see and adjust your braids as needed.
Flyaways and Frizz
Use styling products: Apply a small amount of hair gel or styling cream to smooth down flyaways.
Wrap your hair: Wrapping your hair in a satin scarf at night can help reduce frizz.
Conclusion
Braiding short hair may require some practice and patience, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve beautiful and stylish braids on your own. Remember to prepare your hair properly, use appropriate braiding techniques, and finish with the right touches to ensure your braids look neat and last longer. Keep experimenting with different styles and soon you’ll be able to master the art of self-braiding short hair.