Follow these steps to learn to create a simple three-strand braid. If you don’t have someone with long straight hair to practice on, try using three ribbons or strings. Tie them together at one end and secure it to a corkboard so that the ends are free. When you have mastered this simple braid, turn the page for instructions for a simple French Braid.

# One ___ # Two ___ # Three ___ # Four ___ # Five

Figure One:
Start your braid by parting off a strand of hair measuring about one inch wide. Divide that strand into three equal strands.

Figure Two:
Take strand A and put it over the top of strand B so that it is between Strands B and C. Adjust your hands to hold it there. I hold strand A and B with one hand, placing a finger in between to separate them. My other hand is free to pick up Strand C.

Figure Three:
While holding Strands A and B in place, take Strand C over Strand A and place it between B and A. Now Strand C is in the center. You have to adjust your grip, letting go of Strand B and holding on to C and A.

Figure Four:
Strand B now is taken over the top of strand C so that it is in the center between C and A.

Figure Five:
Return to strand A which is on the opposite from where it began. Take it over the top of strand B so that A is between C and B.

Continue on in the same manner, picking up the outside strand and
placing it in the middle. You will make your braid tighter than the illustrations show.
Practice this basic braid until you get used to the motions and understand it thoroughly.

Turn the Page for instructions for a French Braid.