How to Make a Rope Braid

If you have long hair, braiding it is a way to keep it neat and polished. The invisible braid, also known as the French braid, is a popular look. If you add a twist to the French braid, it is known as a rope braid. Follow these steps to make a rope braid.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Elastic band or hair tie
• Comb

1. Make sure that your hair is clean and free of tangles. Slightly damp hair is easier to braid. You can add a little bit of styling gel to your hair if it makes it easier to handle. Gently comb your hair away from your face. Take a triangular piece of hair that begins at the forehead and extends back to the top of the head. This will be your starting point.

2. Take the triangular section of hair and divide it into three sections or strands. Hold these three sections in one hand. Cross the right strand over the center strand of hair. Then move all two strands over to your other, and cross the left strand over what is now the center strand. Then, move all three strands over to the other hand.

3. Hold all three strands of hair firmly and flip your hand, twisting the braid. Then reposition the strands so they are in place. The order of the strands will be reversed. Then, take a strand of hair from the right side of the head, and cross it over the center strand. Shift all of the strands to the opposite hand. Take a strand of hair from the left side of the head, and cross it over the center strand. Then, flip the braid again, and reposition the strands of hair.

4. Repeat Step 3 until the hair is braided to the nape of the neck. Then, gather the remaining hair in an elastic band. You can use a decorative clip or any other hair accessory to finish off the braid.

Tips & Warnings

• You can make the braid as tight or loose as you'd like by controlling the amount of tension that you use as you braid. Try to keep the tension even as you braid the hair.