Cornrowing is a traditional African hairstyle that has been around for centuries. It’s versatile, low-maintenance, and can be styled in a variety of ways. Many people think that cornrows can only be done on longer hair, but that’s not true. In fact, cornrowing short hair is easier than you might think! With the right tools and techniques, anyone can achieve a beautiful cornrow style. In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of cornrowing short hair.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start cornrowing your hair, you’ll need a few basic tools:
- A rat-tail comb
- Hair clips or elastics
- Hair gel or pomade
- A small spray bottle filled with water
- Hair oil or leave-in conditioner
Once you have these tools, you’re ready to start cornrowing!
Dividing Your Hair into Sections
The first step in cornrowing is to divide your hair into sections. This will help you maintain control as you braid each section. Here are some tips to help you divide your hair into sections:
- Use a rat-tail comb to part your hair down the middle. Make sure the part is straight and even.
- Starting from the front of your head, use the comb to create a horizontal part about an inch above your ear. Clip the top section of hair out of the way.
- Divide the lower section into three equal parts. These will be the strands you use to start your first braid.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the other side of your head.
- Continue dividing your hair into small sections until all of your hair is neatly clipped out of the way.
Braiding Your Hair
Now that you’ve divided your hair into sections, it’s time to start braiding. Follow these steps to create your first cornrow:
- Use a small amount of hair gel or pomade to smooth down the section of hair you’ll be braiding. This will help keep the strands in place and prevent frizz.
- Divide the section into three equal parts.
- Cross the right strand over the middle strand, then cross the left strand over the new middle strand.
- Add a small amount of hair from the section you clipped out of the way to the right strand. Cross it over the middle strand.
- Add a small amount of hair from the other side of the braid to the left strand. Cross it over the new middle strand.
- Continue adding small sections of hair to each strand and crossing them over until you reach the end of the section. Secure the braid with an elastic or clip.
- Repeat this process on each section of hair until your entire head is cornrowed.
Tips for Cornrowing Short Hair
Cornrowing short hair can be tricky, but these tips will help make the process easier:
- Start with smaller sections. The shorter your hair, the smaller your sections should be. This will help you achieve tighter, neater braids.
- Keep the tension even. Make sure you’re pulling each strand tight as you add more hair to it. This will help prevent frizz and ensure that your braids are neat and even.
- Use a water spray bottle. If your hair is dry or difficult to manage, use a spray bottle filled with water to dampen each section before you braid it. This will help make your hair more pliable and easier to work with.
- Experiment with different styles. Cornrows can be styled in many different ways. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different partings, shapes, and designs to create a style that’s uniquely you.
- Take breaks if needed. Cornrowing can be time-consuming and tiring, especially if you’re new to it. Take breaks as needed to rest your hands and give your hair a chance to relax.
In conclusion, cornrowing short hair may seem daunting at first, but with these tips, you can achieve beautiful and intricate braids. Remember to take your time, use the right tools, and be patient with yourself as you master the art of cornrowing. With practice, you’ll be able to create stunning hairstyles that will turn heads wherever you go!
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