This is a step by step guide to the French Braids style for nappy, napptural, or natural hair of African descent at home. All great hair styles begin with clean, healthy hair. You can French Braid nappy hair that is damp or dry. It all depends on if you prefer to detangle your hair while it is wet or dry. Choose a time when you are relaxed. Be patient and French Braid in a slow, steady rhythm. French Braid styles may last longer if you use a little gel or sleep with a simple stocking type cap over your hair. A French Braided style may last up to several days, depending on how rough you sleep and whether or not you cover your hair at night.

How to Create French Braids

• 1. Use a comb to separate your hair into a small square section. Make sure it is tangle free.
• 2. Comb all hair towards the back of the head. You may used a natural boar bristle brush to smooth around the hairline.
• 3. Divide hair into 3 sections L (left), M (middle), and R (right).
• 4. Place L between your left index finger and thumb, let M hang free and place R between your right index finger and thumb.
• 5. Hold M with your right middle finger and pull it so it passes behind R. Extend your right thumb and index finger so the portion of hair therein becomes the M section.
• 6. Use the left middle finger to pull M behind L. Extend or straighten the left index finger and thumb to make L become M. Shift the section that is hooked in the right middle finger so that it is between the right index finger and thumb. Repeat this, then shift the section hooked in the left middle finger so it sits between the left index finger and thumb.
• 7. Continue until you get to the end of the French Braid. Secure the end with a cloth covered elastic.
• 8. Repeat Steps 1-7.

French Braiding Tips: To make a tighter French Braid, pull M horizontally as you pull it to the right or left. To make a looser French Braid, let M remain in a vertical line when you pull it to the left or right. Do not use UNcovered rubber bands. Do not make the French Braid too tight. French Braids do NOT make the hair grow. French Braids should NOT be painful. French Braids that are too tight can lead to traction alopecia or hair loss. Many beginners French Braid OVERHANDED. This means that you can see the palms of your hands while French Braiding. Overhanded French Braids are generally looser than UNDERHANDED French Braids. Underhanded French Braiding means that you can see the backs of your hands while French braiding.

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