How to Attach Dreads

Dreadlock extensions are simple to put in or take out.

Dreads are commonly associated with the Rastafarian religion. Rastas grow their hair long and dread it permanently as part of their belief system but, for those interested only in making a fashion statement, this is far too time consuming. Dreadlock extensions, or dreads, can instead be braided into your natural hair for an instantaneous change. Apart from being easy to put in and take out, fake dreads can be bought in bright colors making them a versatile fashion accessory.

Things You'll Need

• Yarn
• Scissors
• Dreadlock extensions

Instructions

1. Pull a clump of around 20 strands of hair apart from the rest of your hair. Tie a 2-inch piece of yarn around the end of it.

2. Pull the hair through the loop at the end of your dread extension. Push the yarn through first and then use this to pull the hair through the loop.

3. Cut the yarn from the hair. Divide the hair into two strands and, using the dread as a third strand.

4. Braid the hair together. Cross the right strand of hair over the dread so that it becomes the middle strand. Pull all three strands apart so that the braid tightens. Cross the left strand of hair over the middle strand and pull all the strands apart again to tighten. Alternate between right over middle and left over middle until the dread is braided together with the two strands of hair.

5. Tie 2 inches of yarn around the end of the braid to secure the dread in place. You can use the yard from from earlier here, if you wish.

Tips & Warnings

• Double-ended braids do not have a loop. If using a double-ended braid, simply braid it into the hair and tie with a length of yarn.

References

• Me My Kid and Life: How to Attach Dreadlocks
• Quinnster: Dreads
• Long Locks: Hair Braiding