Braiding is a fundamental technique every stylist should know. Whether a basic three-strand or a more intricate design, mastering the principles is key. Kauilani Goodwyn (@kauigoodwyn), Sam Villa ambassador, demonstrates three different techniques that will jump start any stylist’s braiding game.
“Whether mastering a three-strand braid, a traveling version, or using braids as anchors for extensions, any hair texture from straight to the highest coil can be braided,” says Goodwyn.
Tips:
- Always prep hair properly before braiding. Shampoo, condition and apply detangler. Smooth and blow-dry.
- Use the tail of a Tail Comb for sectioning and parting, which enables “drawing” clean parts.
- Clipping hair and sections out of the way helps to organize sections and control hair.
- Tension is important when braiding, but too much can pull hair too tight and cause inconsistencies in the design and/or pain.
- Practice makes progress. Braiding is a repetitive motion—once the rhythm of the pattern is mastered, the speed will increase.
Background on braiding:
- Cornrows originated in Africa and were a way to express marital status, tribe affiliation, wealth, etc. It's braiding against the scalp in rows with repetitive patterns. Cornrows are often used as protective styles or the base for sew in extensions.
- A traveling braid is a cornrow where the hair does not sit in the middle of the section being braided—it “travels.” Meaning, when doing a cornrow in a wider section, when the next subsection of hair going into the braid is grabbed, it will either be placed more to the right or left in the direction of the desired braid. This can create a pattern, like an “S” shape, where more of the hair is seen at the base of the cornrow and the braid is not moving just down the center.
“My favorite braids are cornrows, 2-strand flat twists, fishtails, 4-strand rope braids, and infinity braids," she says. "I love braids because they’re so versatile. You can anchor a style, wear them as a style, or add into a simple style as a focal point or detail.”
Watch a demo here: