Easy french braid for beginners (2. Way to add hair)

In this article, you will learn how to french braid with this “Easy French Braid For Beginners” tutorial. A beginner’s guide to mastering this classic hairstyle, that is perfect for every occasion! 

This post is all about french braids for beginners!

How long does it take to french braid?

The time it takes to French braid hair can vary based on factors such as hair length, thickness, and the individual’s familiarity with the technique. On average, it may take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on whether you are doing a single braid or a double braid.

Beginners might initially spend more time, but with practice, the process tends to become quicker and more efficient. Shorter hair may require less time, while longer or thicker hair could extend the braiding time.

When I braid my hair into a french braid, it takes me about 3-4 minutes tops and that is with lots and lots of practice!

 

What is the difference between a regular braid and a french braid?

The main difference between a regular braid (also known as a three-strand braid) and a French braid lies in the technique of braiding and the placement of hair.

 

Regular Braid (Three-Strand Braid):

In a regular braid, you divide all the hair into three equal sections and then the outer sections are alternately crossed over the middle section.

The strands are consistently crossed over each other in a simple, repetitive pattern.

The result is a braid that sits at the nape of the neck, or wherever you have started the braid, with the three strands clearly visible and woven together.

 

French Braid:

In a French braid, you also start with three sections of hair but at the crown of the head and only with a small part of the hair – the rest of the hair is hanging down. However, as you begin braiding, you gradually add small sections of hair from the sides into each strand before crossing it over the middle.

This technique creates a braid that is closer to the scalp, incorporating additional hair as you move along the head.

The french braid has a more intricate appearance, with the braid appearing to be woven into the hair rather than sitting at the nape of the neck.

 

Summary

In summary, while both types involve three strands of hair, a french braid incorporates additional hair from the sides as you braid, resulting in a more intricate and woven look that lies closer to the scalp.

 

What is the difference between a french braid and a dutch braid?

A french braid and a dutch braid are almost the same. The only difference is a small change in the technique, which decides if the braid is lying on top of the hair like a dutch braid or flatter against the scalp like a french braid. 

The technique is 99,9% the same, so what is the difference? It´s whether you cross the strand of hair over and into the middle or under and into the middle.

If you cross the hair over, you get a french braid and if you cross the hair under and into the middle you get a dutch braid. 

 

What styling products do I need to braid?

You don’t need that many things to do lots of hairstyles, but there are a few basic items, that you need. Most you probably already have, but if you don’t then these are some items I would recommend having!

 

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Easy French braid Step-by-step guide

Time requirement: 8-10 minutes 

Skill level: Medium

 

Prep your hair

Before you start braiding, you need to prep your hair, so you will have the easiest hairstyle possible. 

Start by brushing your hair, so your hair is tangle-free. Then add your styling products, such as a hair mousse or a texturizing spray/powder.

If your hair is a bit oily (second- or third-day hair) it’s perfect for braiding as the oil gives grip to the braid and you can make it nice and neat.

 

1. Take a small section of hair on the top of your head and split that into 3 equal sections.
2. Then cross the right strand over and into the middle.
3. Now take the left strand and cross it over and into the middle.
4. Now take a new section of hair on the right side.  
5. Then take the new hair and add it to the right section and smooth the hair out with your fingers.
6. Now take the right strand and cross it over and into the middle.
7. Now grab a new section of hair on the left side.  
8. Add the new hair to the left strand and smooth it out.
9. Now cross the left strand over and into the middle
10. Repeat steps 4-9 until there is no more hair to add to the braid.
11. When there is no more hair to add to the braid, braid the rest of the hair like a regular 3-strand braid.

 

This post was all about how you can create an easy french braid as a complete beginner!

 

 

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