How to Do Interlocking Braids

Interlocking braids can be the start to long extensions.

Interlocking braiding is a hairstyling technique that involves braiding the natural hair while weaving extensions into the braid at the same time. This technique is also referred to in the industry as "tree braiding." When you do interlocking braids, the wearer gains the advantage of having longer hair that is affixed effectively and comfortably to his natural hair. Before you begin interlocking braids, use clean hair but not hair washed on the same day that you are creating the braids. A little bit of natural hair oil is effective when styling hair.

Things You'll Need

• Brush
• Comb or pick
• Hair clips
• Hair extensions
• Small hair bands

Instructions

1. Brush the hair to detangle it and remove any knots. When you begin with smooth hair, the braids are even and neat.

2. Use a comb or pick to section the hair at the scalp. Work from the right ear to the left ear, from front to back. For the first and front-most row, create 1/2-by-1/2-inch sections with the comb or pick and hold the hair in place with hair clips.

3. Remove the hair clip from the section you are going to start braiding first. Make three equal parts in the section. Gather your hair extensions and take out three sections that are equal in size to the three equal parts in the natural hair. You will mix in the extensions with the natural hair, which is why you want them all to be even.

4. Place the extensions on top of the three parts of the natural hair. Begin braiding. Make a braid by folding the right part over the middle part, and the left part over the new middle part. Continue this pattern until the hair and extensions are braided. Secure the end of the braid with small hair bands.

5. Work across the front of the head, making similar braids that interlock the natural hair and extensions.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also interlock braids using a cornrow technique.

References

• Interlock Styles: What Are Interlock Braids?