How To French Braid - Hair By Dad, by Noakes Reviews on YouTube. 9 min 13 s.
- Video length
- 9 min 13 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Brush the hair smooth and spritz it lightly with water so it is damp but not dripping. Damp hair holds the strands together and makes the braid neater.
Take a small section of hair at the front top of the head, about the width of two fingers, and split it into three equal strands.
Cross the right strand over the middle one, then cross the left strand over the new middle. Give both a gentle tug so the braid stays snug.
Before the next cross, sweep a thin section of loose hair from the right side into the right strand, then cross it over the middle.
Repeat on the left. Pick up a thin section of loose hair from the left side, add it to the left strand and cross it over the middle.
Keep gathering and crossing as you work down the head, staying close to the scalp. Keep the three strands separate so the braid does not bunch up.
When you reach the nape of the neck and no loose hair is left, braid the tail as a plain three-strand plait.
Secure the end with a hair tie, then gently pull the outer edges of the braid wider to fatten it and hide any gaps.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the braid close to the head, because a loose braid slips out within an hour.
Never pull hard on the strands, especially on a child, as it hurts the scalp and leaves the braid lumpy.
Practise on a friend first, since you cannot see the back of your own head while you work.
Questions
How do I stop the braid looking messy?
Keep each strand separate and pick up small, even sections of loose hair. Damp hair and gentle tension make the crossings sit flat.
How long does it take to learn?
Most people manage a passable braid after three or four tries. Expect the first couple of attempts to look uneven.
Can I French braid my own hair?
Yes, but it is easier with a mirror in front and one behind you. Start with a side braid, which you can see while you work.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
