How to French Braid Your Own Hair
Start at your crown, cross side sections over the middle while continuously adding new hair from each side until you reach your nape.
Step by step
Set up your sections
Take a triangle section at your crown about three inches wide. Divide this into three equal strands. Position your hands so your palms face down and your fingers can easily grab new hair.
Start the base braid
Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle. Do this twice to establish your pattern before adding new hair.
Add hair as you go
Before crossing the right strand over, pick up a small section of loose hair from the right side and add it to your right strand. Cross over the middle, then repeat on the left side.
Continue to your nape
Keep adding hair to each side strand before crossing over the middle. Keep your grip firm but not tight, and maintain even tension throughout.
Finish with a regular braid
Once you've incorporated all your loose hair at the nape, continue with a regular three-strand braid to the ends. Secure with an elastic.
Questions people ask
Why do my arms get tired while braiding?
Keep your elbows close to your body and take breaks if needed. Your muscle memory will improve with practice.
How do I keep the braid tight without bumps?
Maintain consistent tension and add small, even sections of hair rather than large chunks.
What if my hair is too short for a French braid?
You need at least chin-length hair. Shorter hair will fall out of the braid before you can secure it.
Variations
- Dutch braid: Cross strands under instead of over for a braid that sits on top of your head.
- Side French braid: Start at your ear and braid diagonally across your head for an asymmetrical look.
- Double French braids: Part your hair down the middle and create two French braids, one on each side.