How To French Braid Hair: A Step-by-step Guide For Two Sides

French braids are a timeless hairstyle that adds elegance and sophistication to any look. The two-sided French braid, also known as the double French braid, is a particularly stunning variation that creates a mesmerizing effect. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of French braiding two sides, providing you with all the necessary steps and techniques to achieve this beautiful hairstyle with ease.

Gathering Your Tools

Before embarking on your braiding journey, it’s essential to gather the right tools:

• Brush or comb
• Hair clips or hair elastics
• Hairspray (optional)

Preparing Your Hair

1. Brush Your Hair: Begin by thoroughly brushing your hair to remove any tangles or knots. This will make the braiding process smoother and prevent breakage.

2. Separate the Top Section: Divide your hair into two equal sections, creating a clean part down the center. Secure the top half with a hair clip to keep it out of the way.

Braiding the First Side

1. Take a Small Section: From the front of the right side of your hair, take a small section of hair, about 1-2 inches wide. This will be the starting point of your French braid.

2. Divide into Three Strands: Divide the small section into three equal strands. Hold the left strand in your left hand, the middle strand in your right hand, and the right strand in your left hand.

3. Cross the Left Strand: Bring the left strand over the middle strand, crossing it to the right.

4. Cross the Right Strand: Now, bring the right strand over the new middle strand, crossing it to the left.

5. Take a New Section: From the remaining hair on the right side, take a small section and add it to the right strand.

6. Repeat Steps 3-5: Continue crossing the left and right strands over the middle strand while adding new sections of hair with each cross.

7. Braid Down: Keep braiding down the length of your hair, adding new sections as you go.

Braiding the Second Side

1. Switch Sides: Repeat the same steps on the left side of your hair, starting with a small section from the front.

2. Mirror the Braids: Make sure to mirror the direction of the braids on the second side. If you crossed the left strand first on the right side, do the same on the left side.

3. Keep the Sections Even: Pay attention to the size of the sections you’re adding to both braids. They should be roughly the same size to create a balanced look.

Joining the Two Braids

1. Bring the Braids Together: Once both braids are complete, bring them together at the nape of your neck.

2. Secure with Elastic: Use a hair elastic to secure the ends of the two braids together.

3. Loosen the Braids (Optional): Gently tug on the sides of the braids to loosen them and create a more voluminous effect.

Finishing Touches

1. Secure the Top Section: Remove the hair clip from the top section of your hair and let it down.

2. Brush and Style: Brush the top section to blend it with the braids. You can also use hairspray to hold everything in place.

3. Accessorize (Optional): Add ribbons, hair clips, or other accessories to enhance the look.

Variations

1. Inside-Out Braid: Instead of crossing the strands over the middle strand, cross them under the middle strand for an inside-out French braid.

2. Dutch Braid: Also known as a reverse French braid, this variation involves crossing the strands under the middle strand instead of over it.

3. Fishtail Braid: This technique creates a zigzag pattern by crossing small sections of hair from alternating sides.

Tips

• Practice makes perfect! Don’t get discouraged if your first attempts don’t turn out exactly as you hoped. Keep practicing and you’ll eventually master the technique.
• Use a mirror to see what you’re doing and make adjustments as needed.
• Don’t pull too tightly on the strands. This can cause breakage and make the braid look uneven.
• Use a hairspray with a light hold to keep the braids in place without making them stiff.

Troubleshooting

• Braids are too loose: Pull gently on the sides of the braids to tighten them.
• Braids are too tight: Loosen the braids by tugging on the strands.
• Sections are uneven: Pay attention to the size of the sections you’re adding to each braid. Make sure they’re roughly the same size.
• Braids are messy: Use a brush or comb to smooth out any flyaways or tangles.

Wrap-Up: The Art of French Braiding Two Sides

Mastering the two-sided French braid is a rewarding skill that can elevate your hairstyling abilities. With patience, practice, and the techniques outlined in this guide, you can create this stunning and versatile hairstyle that will turn heads wherever you go. So, gather your tools, prepare your hair, and embark on the journey to become a French braiding pro!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to learn how to French braid two sides?
A: The time it takes to learn depends on your skill level and the amount of practice you put in. With regular practice, you can master the technique within a few weeks.

Q: Can I French braid my own hair?
A: Yes, it is possible to French braid your own hair with some practice. Use a mirror to help you see what you’re doing and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques.

Q: How can I make my French braids last longer?
A: Use a hairspray with a light hold to keep the braids in place. You can also braid your hair when it’s slightly damp, as this helps the hair hold its shape better.