How to Use a Hair Feather Tool

Stylists use a variety of hair-cutting tools to create a look. The most common tools include standard shears, notching shears and straight razors. A specialized razor called a feather razor is also a popular choice. The razor is equipped with a long, straight handle that features a finger grip and finger rest. The shape and style of the razor makes it ideal for carving out large sections of hair in order to create texture, remove length or add layers. Most of the time, razors are used to add texture around the face.

Things You'll Need

• Spray bottle
• Comb
• Hair clips

Instructions

1. Spray clean, dry hair with using a spray bottle filled with warm water until the hair is damp throughout. Comb to remove any tangles. Create a part running from ear to ear, across the top of the head. Comb the hair behind the part back and clip it out of the way.

2. Pick up the feather tool and hold in your right hand, cradling the weight of the handle in your palm. Insert your ring finger into the finger grip, and place your pinkie finger on the finger rest. Stabilize the razor by placing your thumb on the lowest point of the handle next to the blade.

3. Carve out a small triangular section in the bang area. Comb the section to smooth the hair, and hold the section between the first two fingers of your left hand. Place the razor blade flat against the ends of the hair and gently pull the tool toward the ends of the hair to soften the ends and add texture.

4. Create another triangular section to the right of the first section, and repeat the steps for adding texture. Continue texturizing sections until the entire right-hand side has been texturized. Repeat for the left side.

Tips & Warnings

• Change the razor blade often in order to ensure a smooth cut. A dull blade pulls and gnaws at the hair, causing discomfort and frayed edges. You should change the blade after every other hair cut.

• The angle of the blade determines how much hair is removed. If you place the blade flat against the hair and slide the tool down the hair shaft, very little hair will be removed. If you hold the blade at a 90-degree angle against the hair and apply pressure, you will slice the hair clean through.

• Never operate a hair feather tool without the guard in place. The guard prevents the blade from coming into contact with skin. Without the guard, you are at risk for major injuries while using the razor.

• A fresh blade is super sharp. Use caution when making the first few cuts with a new blade. Use light pressure when cutting so that you do not remove too much hair at once.

References

• "Milady's Standard Textbook of Cosmetology;" Milady, Diane Carol Bailey, Margrit Attenburg; 2008