African braids with threads for children. How to weave African braids: step-by-step instructions, photos

African braids are one of the most popular and stylish hairstyles that have not gone out of fashion for several decades. The most creative fashionistas prefer this type of hair braiding to look unusual and original. As soon as a girl with braids (the second name for afro braids, from the English word “braid”) appears in public, the attention of others will instantly be drawn to her daring and flirty hairstyle.

History of origin

African braiding was practiced in ancient Egypt. To escape the heat, people shaved their heads bald. However, the royals and high-ranking officials of the state were embarrassed to appear in such an “indecent form” in front of the public. Ancient masters came up with an alternative to natural hair. These were wigs that consisted of many braided braids. They were decorated with small precious and semi-precious decorative accessories (mostly stones and beads). The convenience and practicality of such an invention are appreciated in the modern world.

Who is it suitable for?

For a girl or guy who leads an active lifestyle, likes to attract attention and follows fashion trends, we can recommend a hairstyle with braids. It looks very advantageous in any design, attracts attention, and does not leave others indifferent.

People whose hair is weakened after dyeing or perm should not choose afro braids. It is also not recommended to use this hairstyle on naturally thin and weak hair.

Holidays at the seaside can also be problematic for the condition of afro-braids. Water makes them heavy, which can become an unbearable burden for your hair follicles. A large amount of salt in sea water can affect the quality of Kanekalon, and the life of the hairstyle will be significantly limited.

At what length of hair are afro braids woven?

The question “how to weave African braids” will be secondary, since you first need to figure out the length of your hair. If it exceeds ten centimeters, braids should not be used. Your hair will definitely get tangled, which can affect the condition of your own curls. If the haircut is too short, a hairstyle with afro braids will also become problematic. There will be no place for Kanekalon to firmly attach itself to the hair, and the braid can “move out” at any moment. Therefore, weaving technique and quality of work are of no small importance. An alternative option would be to create a hairstyle for a short time and limit the choice of afro braids.

pros

The main advantage of braids is their aesthetic appearance. The hairstyle is voluminous, the hair looks healthy, and there is a creative, original design. Before weaving African braids, you need to be completely convinced of your decision to change your image. Additional benefits will help you with this:

There are many options for braiding, so you can easily choose an idea to suit your taste;
you don’t need to grow your hair for a long time to get the desired length (braids allow you to choose the length to your liking);
lovers of curls will immediately get excellent curly hair results;
you can easily choose the desired hair color by weaving multi-colored strands and threads;
You can get rid of afro braids at any time, since they can easily be unraveled with your own hands.

Minuses

Before weaving African braids, you need to take into account some of the inconveniences that you will definitely have to face. These include:

Sanitary and hygienic care. Washing your hair becomes much more difficult because the hair becomes heavy and unruly (it is difficult to rinse after using shampoo).
Drying. The time it takes to dry braids is significantly longer than the time it takes to dry natural hair. This procedure will take several hours.
Load on hair roots. The large weight that the hairs have to withstand leads to difficulty in feeding the roots and, as a result, a weakening of the physical properties of the scalp.
Problematic sleep. If you have afro braids on your head, a person cannot completely relax while sleeping. It takes a long time to get used to in the first weeks after the weaving procedure (headache is present). In the future, sleep will also not be able to become healthy, since a person is forced to select comfortable positions all night and take care that the braids do not lose their aesthetic appeal ahead of time.

Tools

Before weaving African braids, you need to make sure you have the necessary tools. These include:

comb (not metal) with soft, thin teeth;
Kanekalon in strands;
elements for fixing braids (varieties of glue, small elastic bands).

Materials

To weave braids, you need to prepare the appropriate material. It can be of two types:

Natural Kanekalon is a synthetic thread containing seaweed. Kanekalon resembles the structure of human hair because it has similar properties. Natural high-quality material is relatively expensive.
Artificial Kanekalon is an acrylic thread for knitting. This is a cheap material with a short service life (braids become frayed and individual hairs fall out).

Varieties of African braids

Before braiding African braids, you need to choose the option that suits your taste. There are the following types of braids:

Braids with straight ends. Regular weaving from start to finish becomes thinner at the end, so it is recommended not to add five centimeters.
Ponytail. Braids that are not braided to the end by twenty to thirty centimeters end in curls.
Corrugated. They resemble a fine perm, woven from a special wavy kanekalon.
Senegalese tourniquets. Made from two strands twisted into bundles. Multi-colored threads are often used.
French braids. It is carried out according to the principle of French weaving along strictly separated lines. In such hairstyles, afro braids with threads are used, since it has stronger characteristics.
Thai braids. It is performed directly from the client’s hair without the use of artificial additional strands. At the bottom, the braids are secured with bright silicone rubber bands.
Large curls. In the first option, braided braids are curled into curls (kanekalon must be treated with a special solution). The second option involves curling at the free ends of the strands.
Zizi. It is performed by weaving ready-made braids into your hair (the length of your hair should not exceed twenty centimeters).
Dreadlocks. They are performed using the method of creating tangles from Kanekalon, which is considered safe.

Classic basic weave

It is necessary to familiarize yourself with how professional craftsmen weave African braids. This process takes four to six hours of work. Having studied the technique, you can braid braids yourself. The step-by-step instructions look like this:

Comb washed and dried hair.
Divide the scalp into equal squares;
Using the tip of a comb, select the strand that makes up the square.
Divide the strand into three parts.
Hold the side strands with the little fingers of both hands, the central one with the thumb and forefinger (palms down, little fingers closer to the head).
The side strands are woven through the bottom (during operation, the hands and palms are turned upward).
Maintain the same tension on the strands, otherwise the braid will be uneven.
Alternately rotate your hands (when the left hand turns palm up, the right hand turns palm down).
The hand unfolds, in which there are two strands.

Weaving on the surface of the head

There are many types of braids. How to do African braids on the surface of the head is suggested in this instruction:

Separate the section for weaving with two vertical partings.
Lower weaving technique (as in classic weaving).
When weaving the central strand, each time you need to grab a thin strand located next to the braid.
Pull the side strands to the sides, the central strand towards you (the letter T should form).
Uniform tension of the strands will ensure a snug fit of the braids to the head.
Try to avoid constrictions (hair should be perpendicular to the braid).
When the surface of the head is braided, continue braiding in the classic way.

Weaving with threads

Before you braid your hair with threads, you need to purchase acrylic threads of any color. To weave one braid you need three threads, the length of each is thirty centimeters longer than the length of the hair. It is not recommended to use natural threads as they shrink and fade from the sun. The hairstyle is done like this:

On combed hair, separate a strand of the required size.
Bend three threads in half and make a knot in the form of a loop (do not tighten).
Moisten a strand of hair with water and thread it through a loop with a knot;
Tighten the knot as close to the head as possible.
Divide the strand into three parts.
Attach two threads to each part.
Weave a French braid, not forgetting to attach threads to the strands.
Secure the braid with an elastic band or tie a knot of thread (the hair should not get caught in the knot).

Necessary information about afro braids

It is not very difficult to care for braids, but you should also not ignore accepted hygiene standards, as this can harm your hair and scalp. It is recommended to wash your hair once a week (at least). Pour the shampoo into a container with water, lather thoroughly and begin washing. Each braid, from the base to the tip, must be washed with soapy water. Then, in the same way, rinse thoroughly in running water so that any remaining shampoo does not remain in the braid and begin to destroy the hair structure.

To remove afro braids, you need to:

Cut off the canicalon braid at the ends of the hair.
Using a knitting needle or needle, carefully disassemble the weave.
Pull the braid at the roots of the hair to release the braid.
Detangle tangled hair with your fingers.
Comb carefully, starting from the ends of the hair.
Wash with restorative shampoo.
Apply a firming mask.

To look original and stylish, you don’t have to spend a lot of money in salons. It is enough to learn the basic weaving techniques on your own, and a creative hairstyle will complement the charming image.

African braids look very youthful, daring and original. This fashionable hairstyle suits absolutely everyone – hundreds of women around the world have already been convinced of this!

Features of braids

Afro braiding involves the use of kanekolon, a special synthetic material that is attached to the hair to add volume, elasticity and length. Outwardly, it is not much different from natural hair, but it is much softer, retains its shape well, and is very easy to use. Experts distinguish several types of afrocos.

Classic

It is a scattering of small braids (100 - 250 pieces), braided using the traditional three-strand technique. The thinner the braids are, the more beautiful and durable the styling itself will be. Completion time – 3-6 hours.

Zizi

This is an option for those who cannot wait long. Zizi is a ready-made thin braid (diameter - 3 mm, length - 80 cm), which is woven into strands. The initial hair length is no more than 20 cm. Completion time is from 2 to 4 hours. Wearing period is from 2 to 4 months. Zizi braids can be made straight, crimped, spiral or twisted.

French braids

They are 10-20 braids, braided in different directions (zigzag, vertical, straight or horizontal) and tightly fitting to the head. Braids can be created either from natural hair, the length of which is 8-10 cm, or with the addition of synthetic kanekalon. In the latter version, the braids will last longer.

French weaving is in great demand among women and men. They are very convenient for dancing and active sports. Brades made from natural hair are worn for 1.5 weeks, and from artificial threads - 1.5 months. Weaving time is 40 minutes.

Katherine Twist

The material for this hairstyle is a thin braid with a small round curl (Ketrin Twist or Ketrin Twist de Lux). Unlike others, such braids do not fall off during wear. Catherine Twist looks very light and voluminous.

Curley curls (afro curls)

A weave with curls that is attached to the roots of natural hair. The length of the braid is up to 10 cm, the rest is curled into a tight, beautiful curl (small, medium or large). Curly curls require regular care - in the first week they will have to be lubricated several times a day with a special fixing oil. This procedure will then need to be repeated after each wash. Required hair length – 10 cm. Time to complete – 2-4 hours. Wearing period is about 2 months.

Pony tail

Translated from English it means “pony tail”. These are classic African braids, which are woven from artificial material and end with a small ponytail. It can be either straight or curled. The client chooses the degree of curling and level himself. The final installation length is 20-25 cm. Completion time is 5-8 hours.

Dreadlocks

Artificial braids sewn to natural strands.

Corrugated

Curly braids that resemble wet chemicals. Corrugated Kanekalon is used to create them. The diameter of the curl can be anything. Corrugated braids are fast braids - the braiding time is about 4 hours. It is more convenient to perform it on short hair (5-6 cm) - otherwise the hairstyle will lose its pomp. Wearing period is 2-3 months.

Senegalese braids

They are also called ropes, spirals or strands. Senegalese braids are twisted from two strands. Their length can be any, and the rich palette allows you to create multi-colored styling. Weaving takes about 5 hours.

Thai braids

Another subspecies of classic afro-braids, for weaving of which only native strands are taken. Thai braids look most advantageous on long and fairly thick hair. Another characteristic difference is that the ends of such braids are not sealed with boiling water or fire, but are secured with thread or a multi-colored elastic band with a bead.

Pros and cons of Afrocos

Afro weaving has several significant advantages, thanks to which they have gained such enormous popularity:

Significantly lengthen short hair;
Thread braids change hair color. You can become a brunette, redhead or blonde without dyeing your strands;
They can be unwoven at any time;
Allows you to create different types of styling;
Do not require complex care;
Can be created even on very short hair – 4-7 cm;
Create a stylish, fashionable look.

To see this, see the before and after photos.

Unfortunately, afro braids also have their disadvantages:

They don’t wash well – even after using a special shampoo, the hair still remains partially dirty;
They take a long time to dry - this type of styling takes several hours to dry. In addition, determining whether the strands are dry or not is also very difficult;
Without sufficient nutrition, natural curls become dull and brittle;
The increased load on the hair follicles also affects. In most cases, hair begins to fall out after unbraiding;
At first it is very uncomfortable to sleep with this hairstyle.

Let's make our own braids!

How to weave African braids at home? This is not an easy task, but with the help of our master class you will cope with it without any problems.

You will need:

Comb with sparse teeth;
Artificial threads from kanekolon;
Glue, silicone rubber bands or a special device for fixing braids.

Step 1. Comb your hair.

Step 2. Divide it with a comb into equal vertical partings. Their number can be arbitrary and depends on the thickness of the future weaving.

Step 3: Take a small section of hair from the back of your head using a diamond parting.

Step 4. Comb it well and attach the Kanekolon thread as close to the roots as possible.

Step 5. Divide the resulting curl into three parts and braid it tightly.

Step 6. Using your own strands, add a couple more threads so that the finished braid is the same thickness.

Step 7. Secure the tip of the braid - it can be soldered, glued or tied with a silicone rubber band.

Step 8. Braid exactly the same braid next to this one.

Step 9. Continue weaving along the partings in the direction from the back of the head to the crown. You determine the length, thickness and number of braids yourself.

Advice! Do not wash your hair before creating your hairstyle, otherwise the strands will fluff and fall apart.

Who shouldn't have afro braids?

African braiding is absolutely not suitable for girls with weak, damaged, recently dyed or chemically permed hair. Firstly, they are more difficult to work with. Secondly, such hair needs time to recover, otherwise a fashionable hairstyle can only do harm.

Afro braiding care

Caring for African braids is not that difficult. The main thing is to remember a few rules.

Rule 1. Synthetic threads cannot be straightened with an iron, curled with curlers or over-dried with a hairdryer - this has a detrimental effect on their condition. You should also avoid visiting a bathhouse or sauna. But braids can be dyed, so if you want to change your hair color, feel free to go to the salon!
Rule 2. Ideally, you need a special shampoo to wash your hair, but regular shampoo will do. Dissolve a small amount of the product in a bowl of warm water, dip your braids in it and rinse them gently. Pay special attention to the spaces between weaves. You cannot use conditioner or balm! To keep your hair aesthetically pleasing, repeat the procedure once every 7-10 days.
Rule 3. Do not wear braids for longer than 2.5-3 months.
Rule 4. If any protruding hairs appear, carefully cut them off with nail scissors. Place them flat, as you would when trimming split ends.
Rule 5. If you are not satisfied with the length of the braids, cut them to the desired level.
Rule 6. Afro braids with threads are corrected in a salon - preferably by one specialist.

Hairstyle options with African braids

As the photos show, African braids allow you to create a lot of easy and stylish hairstyles. Most often they are worn loose, secured with a wide bandage or tied in a knot at the back of the head. But that's not all! A high or low ponytail, a large and fluffy bun, a wide braid - there are a lot of options!

How to unbraid afro braids?

At the first need, you can remove your afro braids without the help of strangers:

1. Cut the threads from the ends of your hair.

2. Armed with a needle or awl, unravel the weave.

3. Gently pull the braid near the roots to release the thread.

4. Untangle the strands with your hands and remove the Kanekolon thread.

5. Wash your hair with restorative shampoo and strengthening balm.

Braids always serve as a source of pride, and African braids give the hairstyle originality, audacity and attract the attention of others. Even looking at a photo or video, it is impossible to take your eyes off the mesmerizing braids. This hairstyle suits girls who are active, positive, and courageous. A hairdresser can braid any version of it, but it wouldn’t hurt to learn how to create afro-braids yourself. Let's look at how to weave African braids with your own hands, beautifully and neatly.

It would be a mistake to think that in order to have an armful of African braids, you need to have an impressive supply of your own hair. It is quite enough to have your own hair 5-7 cm, since the braid in any case is braided from artificial fiber. If your own hair is long, then it is woven into the braid along with this fiber. Even if your hair is thick and long enough, you cannot make African braids with it.

They say that the crown of female beauty is well-groomed beautiful hair and, indeed, this is so. Because the flawless appearance of a woman's hair makes her feel like a queen. Like everything in fashion, hairstyles come and go, and African braids and cornrows have been a fashion trend for many years now. They remain popular to this day due to their low maintenance and versatility. African braids allow its owner to change the hairstyle, catching surprised and admiring glances.

The braiding process usually takes a long time from 8 to 12 hours, sometimes two craftsmen perform the work simultaneously. For those with dry, brittle, or severely damaged hair, it is better to treat your hair first. Before making braids, it is important to find a professional hairdresser who specializes in afro braids. Depending on the length and number of braids, such a hairstyle will cost you from 3,000 to 7,000 rubles in the salon. The main thing is that the weaving process does not cause you discomfort, and it should not be painful either before, during, or after the procedure.

Braids can be:

classic three-strand braids. They can be with a blunt sealed tip or with a “live tail”. There can be from 120 to 200 such braids on your head, depending on the thickness and thickness of your hair;
Senegalese strands of two strands, with each strand simultaneously twisted around its axis, look like thin ropes. The strands are very smooth and flexible, so there are many variations of hairstyles made from them;
strands or so-called sausages. Kanekalon strands are wrapped around natural strands. There can be from 20 to 150 such bundles, depending on the desired thickness.

Afro braids can be decorated with beads or rhinestones, gathered into a ponytail, tied in a knot or twisted into a high roller. Also a big plus is that weaving such braids gives your own hair a chance to take a break from styling and other chemicals.

Usually, afro braids last from 2 to 3 months, after which they need to be removed and the hair should be given a rest. To undo your braids, it is better to contact the hairdresser who braided them, rather than doing it yourself. After all, if you unbraid it incorrectly, there is a risk of severe damage to your hair. When you remove your braids, you will probably see clumps of hair falling out. Don't be scared! This hair gradually fell out throughout the wearing of afro braids as part of daily hair renewal.

For those who are looking for something new, who are tired of grueling daily hair care, afro braids will be a real find.

Types of African braids

Classic afro braids

Weaving African braids is a painstaking and time-consuming process, so if you decide to do this experiment, you will have to muster all your willpower into a fist. because the process is lengthy. Classic afro braids are a scattering of small braids braided by hand. Their number can range from 100 to 250 pieces, it all depends on your wishes. It is worth noting that the thinner the braids, the longer their service life.

Afro braids can be of two types: with a chopped tip or with a live tip. Which option to choose is up to you, both options look very cool. The time required for braiding afro braids is from 3 to 6 hours, it all depends on the final length and number of braids, as well as on the professionalism of the braider.

With the help of afro braids, you can experiment with colors and hair lengths. If you are the owner of a short haircut or bob, in a few hours you can become the happy owner of long braids. A brunette can easily turn into a blonde, and of course vice versa. In one afro hairstyle you can combine up to 5 different colors, both natural shades and bright fantasy colors. To weave afro braids, the minimum length of natural hair must exceed 5-6 cm. The wear period is from 2 to 4 months.

Pony tail

Pony tiles are the same classic afro braids, only they are woven from a slightly different material - ponies. The braids at the ends will look like curls, with varying degrees of curl; you can also adjust the length of the curl as you wish. Ponytail braids look very feminine and extravagant, suitable for both classic, strict style and youth.

By playing with color in one hairstyle, you can create the effect of highlighted or colored hair. You can also combine two colors in one braid. Such experiments will not harm your natural hair and will help you radically change your appearance. Pony tile, like all other afro hairstyles, is not fussy to care for, the main thing is not to forget to comb the curls a couple of times a day with a massage comb. The weaving time for a pony tile is from 5 to 8 hours, depending on the chosen hairstyle length.

Zizi

Zizi braids belong to the group of quick braids. Zizi is a ready-made material in the form of thin braids (diameter 3 mm, standard length 80 cm). The zizi is attached with a regular braid along the entire length of natural hair, and then 3 parts of free material are left. The zizis themselves are similar to a classic afro, only in very fine weaving. The material can be absolutely straight, with a large wave or corrugated.

Zizi braids look best on not very long hair, about 20-25 cm.
The palette of zizi material is slightly less sparse than the color range of canicalon used for classic afro braids, but even here you can easily choose the appropriate color, both natural and unnatural. Weaving time is from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the length of natural hair. You can wear zizi for 2-3 months.

Corrugation is artificial hair tightly twisted into a curl. From afar, this hairstyle looks very much like wet chemicals; I must say, it looks very unusual and beautiful. Corrugations, like zizi, belong to the group of quick weaves and are attached along the entire length of the hair with a regular braid. Braiding time, as a rule, does not exceed 4 hours, for short hair no more than 2.5 hours. The corrugation will give your hairstyle new volume and length, and will also give you the opportunity to radically change the color. The corrugated material can have varying degrees of curl. This hairstyle is best suited for short hair.

The corrugated hairstyle is very unpretentious and without special care will always look well-groomed and neat, which will give you the opportunity to save 1-2 hours on styling. Hair length for corrugated braiding is 6-7 cm. Wearing period is 2-3 months.

Finished curls made from a material that is as close in appearance to natural hair as possible are attached using the braid or figure eight method. The main difference among all curls is the type of curl. Afro curls have a round curl along the entire length of the material. Super curls curl in a zigzag pattern along their entire length in a vertical direction. Curly curls curl only at the ends, in a rounded, smooth curl. The material used to create curls is treated with a special compound that holds the curl throughout its entire lifespan.

Curls, unlike other afro hairstyles, require careful care. They need to be combed several times a day, and treated with special oil in the first few days. The period of wearing this hairstyle does not exceed 2 months.

Senegalese braids

Senegalese braids are woven in an unusual way. Unlike the usual braid, which is braided from 3 parts of hair, Senegalese braids are braided from only two strands. Senegalese braids are also called ropes, spirals or plaits. This hairstyle looks very original and will undoubtedly attract the looks of others on the street. The length, color and quantity can be adjusted according to the customer's wishes. Senegalese braids are not recommended for hair that is too thick. You won’t need much time to care for this hairstyle; it is enough to wash your braids once every 7-10 days. The color palette, weaving time and wear period are the same as classic afro-braids. The thickness, length and number of braids can be absolutely any.

Dreadlocks

This technique is specific in that hair is intertwined with woolen threads.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of African braids:

There are a lot of ways to weave braids, so there is an option for every girl;
Braids can easily increase the length of your hair, which is very convenient for girls with short hair;
Afro braids will help you change your hair color by weaving strands of a different color or thread into it;
transformation of straight hair into curly hair;
You can unravel them yourself and at any time.

Disadvantages of African braids:

It is very difficult to wash such hair, even with the use of special products;
It is difficult to dry the hair after washing;
the weight of the attached strands causes injury to the hair follicles, which can lead to subsequent hair loss;
nutrition and enrichment of curls with vitamins is reduced, so they become brittle, lose their shine and healthy appearance;
Sleeping on this structure is not very comfortable.

African braiding

The weaving technique is not that complicated, but it is incredibly labor-intensive, as you can see in any instructional video. Just imagine, there will be from 150 to 300 braids on your head! Of course, the master will do your hair faster, without requiring your participation. Is it possible to do this weaving at home? Let's look at how to make African braids at home . To do this, you will need a comb, threads or curls for weaving, glue for braids, and rubber bands. It will be better if you attract an assistant, this will make the process easier and faster.

So, let's get to work using step-by-step instructions for classic weaving.

Comb your hair thoroughly, it is better if it is slightly damp.
Conventionally, divide the surface of the head into squares by making a parting. We will make a braid from each square.
Next, take a strand and divide it into three parts. We braid a regular braid to the required length. In this case, you can weave in a direct and reverse way. This is a matter of skill and habit.
When finished, secure with an elastic band.
We increase the weaving speed of each subsequent braid.
We braid until all the strands of the head are braided.
When weaving, it is necessary to ensure that the tension of the strands is the same.
Also, don't panic if the ends of your hair get tangled.
You just need to hold three strands with one hand and run the other through your hair, separating them with your fingers.

How to weave African braids correctly?

Before you start weaving, you need to remember a few rules. Firstly, it is necessary to degrease your hair as much as possible so that it does not slip. To do this, you can wash them with soap. Do not use conditioner balm. Secondly, you need to do the markings correctly. The squares must be perfectly even so that hairs from different squares do not intertwine with each other, and be staggered to hide the marking lines. And thirdly, you should start weaving from the back of your head. And don’t forget to set the braids in the right direction.

Necessary materials for African braids

Here is a short list of everything you need for weaving:

additional material, which depends on the type of afro weaving chosen;
two combs, one with frequent teeth for marking, the other with rare teeth for weaving;
glue for fixing braids or small rubber bands.

Step-by-step weaving technique

To get beautiful afro braids, you need to follow the step-by-step braiding technique:

Select a strand of the desired thickness in the occipital area. Don't forget about the correct markings.
Carefully comb the strand and attach a pre-prepared Kanekalon thread (or a thread made of another material) as close to its root as possible.
We divide the entire resulting strand into three parts and weave a neat tight braid.
If the braid needs to be longer than your hair, then when the length ends, you should add a little more material so that the entire braid is the same thickness.
We fix the tip the way you like. This can be done using glue, beads, a special apparatus or an elastic band.
We shape the braid and make the finishing touches to your liking.
We braid all the hair, moving from the back of the head to the temples. Don't forget to point your braids in the right direction.

Variety of afro braids

Such hairstyles are also called braids. This word means hair braided in any way. Africans have a large number of varieties of braids, of which the most popular in our country are:

Braids are a traditional braid using three strands.
Strings are two spirally twisted strands.
Sausages - one strand wraps around another.
Harnesses are an interweaving of strands around an imaginary axis.
Dreadlocks that fall out of curls for many days (about a month). They can only be removed by shaving.
Pseudo-dreads are types of brades using several other materials.

Subtleties of creating an Afro hairstyle

Theoretically, African braids can be made exclusively from natural hair - for this, the length of the curls must reach at least 30-40 cm. However, usually the technology involves the use of additional artificial threads, which allows you to make Afro braids for short hair, the length of which is 5-8 cm.

Almost anyone can wear these hairstyles. But they should not be performed on damaged and weakened curls: due to, albeit insignificant, the load created by artificial additions, they may begin to break off. African braids are also not suitable for people whose hair is thinning, since in this case the gaps between the strands will become especially noticeable. In principle, all problems with hair must be solved before weaving, because after the hairstyle is created, the scalp and its problems will be clearly visible.

Usually, when braiding afro braids, foreign strands from kanekalon or natural hair that have been processed in production are added. Natural curls are best used for extensions. Kanekalon is often used for braids because it is 80 times lighter than natural hair, retains its shape well, especially after scalding with boiling water, and is very easy to use.

African braids: braiding technique

If you understand well how to weave Afro braids, after training you can do such hairstyles yourself in seven hours. On average, you can make close to 150–200 braids. Their number is selected based on the desired result. A hairstyle with 100 braids will be visually somewhat heavy, since each of them will be quite voluminous, and with 200 braids it will look sophisticated and light.

You will need a thick comb and an afro braid machine.

Step by step execution:

Before braiding, you should not wash your hair, because on slightly dirty curls the process itself goes faster and the result is preserved better.
The hair must be combed thoroughly, otherwise the hairstyle will look sloppy.
A thick comb is used to make a parting in the middle of the head.
One strand is separated, and the closer it is to the parting, the easier it is to weave.
The selected curl is divided into three identical strands, while the side ones must be held with the little fingers located closer to the head, and the middle one with the thumb and forefinger. Hands should be palms down.
Braiding is done by alternately turning the hands palms up, the braid is woven through the bottom.
The left hand turns palm up, while the right hand remains in a palm down position. Then the left hand is turned palm down and the right hand is turned palm up. Only the hand with two strands needs to be turned over.
It is necessary to tighten all three strands equally. The weave needs to be quite tight.
The ends of the braids are fixed with a special device. They can be decorated with beads or balls.
The adjacent strand is separated and the process is repeated.

Caring for African braids

It is advisable to dry your afro braids without using a hair dryer. If necessary, it is necessary to adjust the cool air flow. This is due to the protection of kanekalon from exposure to high temperatures, since it can soften and tightly glue the curls or simply lose its shape. Afro braids dry much faster than natural hair. After swimming in the pool or sea, for your hair to look neat again, you just need to shake it.

The hairstyle lasts for about 3 months, but the duration of this period depends on the speed of hair growth and the thickness of the braids - thin ones last longer. After the strands grow by one and a half centimeters, the appearance becomes not too neat, especially when the colors of the natural hair and the woven Kanekalon contrast.

In this case, it is advisable to unravel African braids at home, which is not very difficult, since artificial strands prevent tangling. In the salon, a special treatment will be additionally applied to the hair, giving it smoothness and simplifying styling. Another option is to perform a correction, which consists of braiding the overgrown braids in a certain way so that they become part of those that already exist. Many stylists believe that Afro hairstyles are not just a momentary fashion. They have gained popularity among all races and have firmly established themselves in the lists of hairdressing services.

Video: African braids and their types

Braids, or as they are usually called, Afro braids (African braids), have been popular among the fair sex for a long time. They have become in demand due to the original look of this hairstyle and the absence of the need for grueling styling.

Many girls wonder how to properly braid African braids at home? This is possible by following the step-by-step instructions and being patient.

Types of African braids

Weaving African braids can be done in various forms, each of which will require the use of imagination when working with hair. The hairstyle allows you to experiment with hair color and length. Whatever type of African braids a girl chooses, she can create it at home. The most popular types are:

African straight braids;
Thai braids;
zizi, woven from a pre-made braid;
French braids with a pattern;
Sinegalese tourniquets. The principle of their weaving is to braid the strands together;
wavy African braids;
twisted African braids;
Curly's large curls;
pony tail;
zizy sue.

Classic African braids are a large number of small braids, which are woven by hand. African braids are made using point weaving with additional weaving of canicalon (artificial hair) or threads. These African braids are woven evenly and are secured at the ends with a strong strand, pulled into a tight knot and secured with invisible glue. The smaller the thickness of the resulting braids, the more valued the hairstyle is, and the wearing time will increase significantly. If a woman has her own hair with a length of at least six centimeters, then she can braid her own hair. If the length does not allow this, canicalon overlays are used.

Zizi

Zizi is the weaving of pre-prepared material into natural hair. To perform the hairstyle, it will be necessary that natural hair does not exceed twenty centimeters in length. It is at this length that the false braids will be easier to weave, and the overall appearance of the hairstyle will become more natural. If a girl has too long hair, then it is recommended to abandon this hairstyle and choose the most suitable type of African braids. At home, these African braids can be performed within four hours. Such braids will decorate a woman for three and sometimes four months.

Zizi Sue's hairstyle is reminiscent of zizi braiding, but differs from it in one nuance - African braids are curled along all lengths. Such braids are suitable for those women who do not have the natural length and volume of hair, but would really like it. Such curls will delight the owner of the hairstyle for more than two months.

The name of the hairstyle “dreadlocks” is translated from English as terrifying curls. The hairstyle is braided into multiple strands and is not combed. Naturally, the curls themselves form the shape characteristic of this hairstyle. No styling or combing required.

Translated into Russian, the name of this hairstyle means “pony tail,” and it really does vaguely resemble it. The difference between these braids and classic African and other types is that a ponytail is left at the end of the braiding. Such African braids are woven not from canelon, but from an artificial material called “pony”. The length of the curl at the end of the braid is independently adjustable. Usually a pony tail is made with a length of twenty-five centimeters. The time required to complete such work will be about six hours.

Sinegalese plaits differ from other weaving options in that they consist of only two strands, and not three, as in classic African weaving. The two twisted strands should be intertwined with each other and with the opposite side, and secured tightly at the ends. The duration of weaving such African flagella is at least six hours at home. It is important to note the peculiarity of the hairstyle - fragility.

This type of hairstyle is performed on short hair, so the artificial hair should fit tightly to the place of weaving and look like a curl. If you look at these African braids from a distance, they can be confused with the wet effect of chemicals. The curl for future braids is chosen independently; it can be small or large. The period of wearing such hair is up to four months.

This braiding method consists of African braids curled into ringlets. Braiding type: figure eight fastening to hair. It is this weaving that is characterized by a gentle composition for the hair, and a special impregnation helps the hairstyle keep its curl shape throughout the entire wear period, which ranges from one and a half to two months.

DIY African braiding technique

The technique requires a lot of patience and strength when weaving one hundred and fifty, and sometimes three hundred African braids on your head. Of course, a master in a beauty salon will do the braiding much faster, without the participation of the future owner of the hairstyle. But what to do if you want to do weaving yourself? Of course, get to work according to the step-by-step instructions.

Before starting work, you need to take care of the tools that will create African braids on your head: a comb, false curls or threads, glue for braids and small rubber bands. Maybe a friend will help you weave, then the time needed to create African braids will be reduced by several hours.

When starting work, you need to consistently follow the technique.

The first weaving method

Before braiding, you need to slightly wet your hair and comb it thoroughly.
The surface of the head must be mentally divided into squares. It is recommended to select the first line and mark the spaces where the African braids will be located (this will affect the density). An African braid will be woven from each square.
The strand is divided into three parts, fixing the side strands with the little fingers and the central one with the index finger. Braiding is done as in a regular braid to the selected length. Weaving is carried out in both reverse and direct ways, it depends on habit.
After braiding, the braids are secured with elastic bands.
After each braid, you need to try to speed up the braiding process.
Braiding on the head should be continued until all the strands are braided.

It is important to know that weaving should be done with the same tension so that African braids do not differ in appearance.

Second weaving method

The weaving method is the same as described above, but with the difference that a vacation thread is added to the natural hair. It is installed in such a way that natural hair is wrapped in it. After this, hard work is done with your hands, as in the first method.

The third way to create braids

The method is reminiscent of weaving African braids, as in the French ear. The work is performed in the following sequence:

The strand is separated from the beginning of the forehead to the back of the head.
The workpiece is divided into three parts and intertwined.
After weaving, you need to pick up a strand on the right and place it on the one you are going to cover.
The same actions are performed on the left side.
The spikelet braid is braided to the selected level, and the free ends are intertwined without catching the strands from the sides.
The same steps are repeated on all remaining strands.

This method of weaving African braids in the French style is sometimes performed with artificial strands.

Caring for African braids

After a girl becomes the owner of luxurious Afro braids, she should remember that they require careful care. How beautiful African braids will look on your head will depend on proper care.

African braids are often created from synthetic materials and therefore the hair should not be exposed to high temperatures. It is prohibited to use tongs, curling irons and other devices that heat the surface of the hair. When visiting a bathhouse or solarium, your hair should be covered with a towel.

How to properly wash hair braided in African braids?

Of course, you need to wash your hair, but you need to carry out this procedure with special responsibility for your strands.

Experienced hairdressers advise creating African braids on your head as thin as possible, then they will last much longer than those that have an increased thickness at the base and throughout the strands.

Tips for washing your hair will help you carry out the procedure correctly:

It is not recommended to wash your hair more than once every nine days. Washing your hair every day is strictly prohibited;
The choice of shampoo should be a transparent one with a gel base. This will avoid white lumps between the strands and the effect of carelessly washed hair;
the use of conditioners and rinses will harm the hairstyle, so you only need to use shampoo;
African braids will retain their shape if the washing process is carried out while standing in the shower, and not with your head down. It is better to braid small African braids into several large braids, so they will be subject to less stress from water and friction with your hands;
Before washing, foam the shampoo in a separate container and rub it into the scalp with smooth movements. Much attention is paid to the base of the hair, where residual sebum and dust accumulate;
After washing, wring out the hair with a dry towel. To do this, use towels with the greatest absorbency;
African braids should not be wiped with a towel; such friction will cause the hairstyle to lose its blooming appearance;
You can dry your hair with a hairdryer using the warm air setting.

In addition to tips for washing Afro braids, there are also important points for caring for this hairstyle:

1. You need to dry your hair completely and do not go to bed with a wet head. You cannot spend the night with wet hair - this will lead to excessive growth of bacteria on the head.
2. Hair balms and masks are prohibited while wearing this hairstyle. They collect a lot of dust and spoil the appearance of African braids.
3. The use of washcloths in hair care is not recommended. This can damage thin African braids.

It’s good when the avant-garde in hairstyle fashion plays into the hands of any girl’s appearance. This is exactly how we can characterize the approach that is relevant today to giving your image originality and style with the help of Afro braids - hairstyles that leave no one indifferent.

African braids, which recently gained popularity in Russia, have a long history. It is believed that the idea of weaving them is a figment of the imagination of the ancient Egyptians. By cutting their hair completely to escape the heat, they wanted to look attractive.

Therefore, they had wigs consisting of braids of equal length, perfectly braided, decorated with small accessories.

Such hairstyles were worn by high-ranking persons close to the royal chambers.

Today, braiding afro braids is a tribute to fashion. The hairline, so generously braided into 100-250 braids, doesn't look poor. The illusion of hair thickness, length and complete health is created.

What types are there?

Today there is more than one way to create such a hairstyle. Knowing how to weave African braids at home, you can try create an original youth hairstyle, which will enrich your image with natural enthusiasm and eccentricity.

True, it is unlikely that it will be possible to perform it professionally without becoming familiar with some secrets. One of them is Kanekalon - a modern material for adding volume to braids.

African braids with straight ends

The easiest to understand and perform, the most widespread today, but long version of weaving is classical. The braid is woven in the usual way, from its base to the end point.

Its thickness depends on the selected number of parts. Execution time ranges from 4 to 6 hours. The tip of such braids is smooth and thin. In order not to let it become completely thin, you can finish braiding African braids 5 centimeters before the end.

Important: If these braids are not reinforced with some kind of woven fibers, their ends will be thin and unattractive.

Pony Tail

Many are impressed braids ending in long strands of hair. This is a pony tail. The uniformity of length, width and density of the elements must be guaranteed. Fluffy strands can be straight, curled or completely curly.

These braids can be styled in an interesting way by pinning them on the top of the head or on the sides. The protruding ends will add lightness and carefreeness.

Some people are embarrassed by the lack of pomp on the head when braided. Facial features become sharper, protruding elements become more noticeable.

Therefore, a popular option is corrugated - curled braids, which resemble the long-known wet perm. To create this option, you must have a special corrugated Kanekalon.

Senegalese braids

A special version of braids, characterized braiding two strands. From their very base, the tight fit of the components of the braid is ensured.

The original design is the execution of Senegalese elements from two strands of different colors. In this case, you can use two shades of the same color, or you can use completely opposite options.

French patterned braid

To do braids that fit tightly to the head They use French weaving methods. “French” braids (in other words, spikelets) have been in fashion for a long time, representing a weave running along the top of the scalp, from the forehead to the beginning of the neck. Gradually woven strands of hair allow you to make your entire head neat, without pulling the hair too much, without radically changing the direction of its growth.

Today, this method of “French” braiding has found application in numerous braids along strictly separated lines. African braids with threads are often used in such hairstyles - an option that has stronger characteristics.

Variety - French braids.

How to make African braids without using artificial strands? This offers a variation of Thai braids. The condition is the presence of native thick, long and healthy hair. In order for the hairstyle to be current, it is necessary to ensure their uniform length and treat them with a special composition that ensures smoothness and uniform volume.

The method of securing the tip gives a special charm to this option. It is made from a bright elastic band, thread or other small fastening pin.

The advantages of hairstyles with African braids, made in the form of large curls, are obvious. With their help, the hairstyle for special occasions looks stylish.

There are two main versions:

artificial, fully braided braids curled into curls (kanekalon in this case is treated with a special composition to ensure the duration of the so-called wear);
curls made at the free end of the strands.

There are also types of African braids that take less time to create, for example, zizi. The length of your own hair should not exceed 20 cm; ready-made braids need not be added. Their design looks stylish in a curled form. Spirals and corrugations, soft curls and small curls are possible.

A similar option is the Catherine Twist - a thin braid intended for weaving, curled in the form of a large curl.

Dreadlocks

African-American braids called dreadlocks attract particular attention.

Their modern version originates among representatives of the Negroid race. It was they who, without giving their hair proper care, involuntarily “created” a new hairstyle – dreadlocks. Naturally possessing stable curliness, they became tangled and formed unkempt tangles, giving rise to

Subsequent hair growth lengthened such “braids” and formed the appropriate style.

Today, a similar hairstyle is created using Kanekalon. This option is called safe.

Who are they suitable for?

Know , how to weave afro braids is useful for any girl who feels active and cheerful.

Those who have thin and weak hair that has recently been permed or dyed should be careful.

It is not advisable to choose afro braids hairstyles when going on vacation to the sea, since constant exposure to water, especially salty water, limits its “wear” to time.

How long can you weave?

You need to use braids in your hair, especially with artificial fibers, carefully and wisely.

For example, you cannot use options with curled strands if the hair length exceeds 10 cm.

In this case, confusion is inevitable.

There is also the opposite limitation: on hair that is too short, the attachment of artificial strands will be unreliable. However, a lot depends on the weaving technique.

The hairstyle can only be created for a short time and limit your choice of braids.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of a hairstyle with braids is its visual effect. Wherein Provides voluminous hair shapes, a uniform healthy appearance, and an original design.

However, there are negative aspects to this. So:

sanitary and hygienic care becomes difficult. Many people don’t even understand how to wash their hair;
it takes more time to dry after washing;
intense stress on hair roots leads to reduced nutrition and weakening of physiological properties;
The relaxation of all vital functions expected in a dream is not observed due to uncomfortable forced postures and the fear of unraveling the braids ahead of time.

Weaving at home

The modern hairdressing industry allows you to braid Afro braids at home. However, it is necessary to take into account that you will not be able to braid Afro braids on your own; you will need an assistant.

Attention: If your hair is not completely healthy or you have recently dyed it, wait at least two weeks.

The main stages of combing are:

Dividing the scalp into separate squares.
Having chosen the usual three-strand option, we divide each segment into three strands and begin to weave.
At the base we attach the Kanekalon using adhesive.

Further weaving is carried out taking into account the chosen option. If these are French “spikelets”, the hair is woven in gradually. In this case, the Kanekalon strands pass through the entire braid unchanged.

When choosing a pony tail type option, the weaving should be stopped much earlier, securing it with an elastic band at the beginning of the free tassel.

This video shows how to weave African braids on short hair:

Tools

Before starting work, you should prepare:

a plastic comb with thin, soft teeth;
Kanekalon strands of selected length and color;
elements for fastening braids (adhesive, small elastic bands, other devices).

Materials

The trick is to use Kanekalon - synthetic threads similar in properties to human hair.

This organic similarity is ensured by the inclusion of certain substances from seaweed. However, such material is expensive and is not the only option.

There are also completely artificial strands. Despite its external similarity to natural hair, prolonged wear leads to changes in its structure, and, therefore, to fraying and knocking out individual hairs.

Weaving technique

The differences in the technique of weaving different types of afro braids are small, but they exist. So, weaving from three strands, you can:

weave the side parts inward through the top;
side parts, slightly turning inside out, weave in from below.

Afro braids care

Knowing how long you can wear your hair with African braids, you should not neglect the rules of hair care.

Hair washing is carried out at least once a week. To do this, dilute shampoo appropriate to your hair type in a container of warm water. Each braid is carefully washed, starting from its base. The detergent should be washed out in several steps so that its residue does not begin to destroy the hair structure inside the braid.

After this, thoroughly rinse and dry.

Hairstyles with afro braids

Free-flowing braids are far from the only option for wearing them. They look original and stylish if:

lift them to the top of the head and tie them into a high ponytail;
partially twist it into a cute bun, pin it with a bright hairpin or tie it with a bow;
twist it like a snail on the top of the head or on the side of the back of the head.

You can weave it into a massive braid or come up with a more complex option, as in the photo:

How to unweave

No matter how much pleasure the girls feel from wearing the “ancient hairstyle of the Egyptian queens,” the time comes to unravel it. Sometimes this is not easy, especially when the wear time has exceeded 2 months.

If there are only artificial fibers at the end of the braid, before unbraiding, they can be easily cut off with scissors, as in this video:

From the place where your strands are woven, you should be careful. For unbraiding, it is advisable to use a sharp, smooth object that can easily fit between the woven strands and free them from each other.

Such actions are carried out starting from the bottom up, gradually weaving artificial strands and gently straightening the natural hair.

After completing the work, wash your own hair in a gentle manner (warm water, mild detergent, herbal rinse). It is useful to improve the health of the hair with cosmetics containing nutrients, vitamins, and structure-restoring components.