How to Do Rag Rolling of Hair

Women in the 19th century used the rag rolling technique.

Rag rolling is a technique that people use to create curls in hair that is usually straight or wavy. People who roll their hair in rags, or fabric strips, do not have to worry about heat damage that curling irons can cause. Rag-rolled curls also look more natural than curls that come from a curling iron. People who curl their hair with this technique can add variety to their everyday looks.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Towel
• Comb
• Hair bands
• 2 inch-by-5-inch fabric strips
• Brush
• Mousse
• Hairspray

Instructions

1. Dampen your hair with water and wipe off excess water with the towel. Comb your hair and remove any tangles. Divide your hair into one-inch sections with the comb. Secure each section with a hair band.

2. Grasp the section of hair that is closest to the right side of your face. Remove the hair band. Roll the end of the section of hair loosely around the middle of a fabric strip. Wrap the hair around the fabric strip repeatedly until you reach the top of the section of hair. Knot the fabric strip around the hair.

3. Roll the section of hair that is closest to the left side of your face. Alternate rolling sections on opposite sides of your head so the curls will dry evenly. Let the hair dry.

4. Untie the fabric strips. Brush your curls until each section of hair is unrolled but still curly. Spray mousse into your hand and spread it evenly over your curls. Let the mousse dry. Spray your hair with the hairspray to maintain the curls.

Tips & Warnings

• Sleep with your hair in rag rolls. They will be dry when you wake up.

• Do not wrap your hair tightly or the rags will be difficult to remove and your hair will not dry.

References

• Vixen Vintage: How to Do Rag Curls
• A Beautiful Mess; DIY Curls How to Rag Roll Your Hair; Elsie Larson; July 2011
• Lydia Joyce; Hair Washing and Care in the 19th Century; Lydia Joyce; July 2008