How to Do Renaissance Hair Braid

Hair braids were very common during the Renaissance because braided hair was very easy to care for and keep out of the way. Women from the upper class to scullery maids wore their hair in braids. They usually did not take out the braids for several days. Women today have many options for styling their hair but braids are still popular. Renaissance hair braids look very interesting, however, and can change the whole look of a person's outfit or demeanor. These braids are not difficult to achieve; they just take a little extra time.

Things You'll Need

• Comb
• Hair bands
• Clips or bobby pins
• 2 yards of ribbon (optional)
• Needle (optional)

Instructions

Braiding/Twisting the Hair

1. Divide your hair down the middle with a comb. Pull one side out of the way with a clip or hair band.

2. Pick up a small section from the front of the hair on the side that is unbound. Twist it several times in a downward spiral. Hold the twist secure in your left hand.

3. Pick up a second small section, twist it downwards like you did with the first one, then cross it over the first twist. Drop the first twist and hold the second in your left hand.

4. Pick up the first twist and a new small section of hair with your right hand.

5. Twist this combined section of hair a few times, then cross it up and over the twist being held in the left hand.

6. Repeat the twisting, dropping and crossing until you have gathered all the hair on the right side of the head.

7. Twist the rope of hair down until you reach the ends of the hair.

8. Secure the end with a hair band.

9. Repeat Steps 2 through 8 with the other side of the head of hair.

10. Cross the two hair ropes under the base of the head, at the nape of the neck.

11. Wrap them around the head, just behind the ears and attach the ends to the top of the head with a clip or bobby pins.

Adding a ribbon

1. Cut a two-yard piece of ribbon and loop it around both braids at the bottom of your head at the nape. Tie it in a knot, leaving about two inches free on the short end.

2. Sew the ribbon through the braids around your head using a large blunt needle, keeping the ribbon taut. Sew under the hair next to the scalp. At the top of the head, remove the hair clip or pins and sew an "X" back and forth at the point where the ends of the braids are, to keep them down.

3. Continue sewing until you reach the nape of the neck. Wrap the ribbon around the head in front of the braids.

4. Tie off the ribbon to the short piece you originally left when you reach the nape a second time.

Tips & Warnings

• Once your braid is complete, add some flowers or jeweled accessories to your hair to add to the look.

References

• Renaissance Braids