How to French Braid Your Hair

A French braid is a classic and beautiful hairstyle and it is also very popular. The French braid works well for professional attire as well serves as an easy way to keep hair pulled back in more casual settings. The easiest way to do a French braid is to have someone else do it but that isn’t always possible. Knowing how to French braid your own hair will give you the flexibility to enjoy this style whenever you wish.

Things You'll Need

• Comb or brush
• Misting bottle (optional)
• Elastic or hair clip

Instructions

1. Start with free hair that has been brushed and detangled. If desired, you can mist hair with a little water to make it easier to braid.

2. Gather a small amount of hair at the center of your scalp, near your forehead. The thickness of your hair and the type of braid you want will determine the size of this section. To start with, try a section about 2 inches wide and 1 inch thick.

3. Divide this section of hair into three pieces and begin a traditional braid by crossing the right side over to the middle and then the left side over to the middle. Only cross each side over once.

4. Gather a small amount of hair from right side of the head and add it to the section that is on the right side. Braid this new, thicker section over into the middle of the head.

5. Gather a small amount of hair from the left side of the head and add it to the section that is on the left side. Cross the left side over to the middle of the braid.

6. Continue these steps as you move slowly down the head. Taking larger sections of hair will make the braid go faster but smaller sections will hold the hair better and the braid may last longer as a result.

7. Braid down your head until you run out of extra hair to add to the braid. Once this happens continue braiding a traditional braid until you reach the ends of your hair. Secure with an elastic or clip.

8. Spray the braid lightly with hair spray to help the braid stay in place. Pat the edges of your hair around the forehead and temples to help the shorter wisps of hair stay where they belong.