DIY Feed In Braids: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hey there, style enthusiasts! Are you looking for a hairstyle that's not only cute and versatile but also lasts long? Well, you've landed in the right place! Today, we're diving deep into the world of feed in braids – a fantastic way to add length and flair to your hair while protecting it with a stylish cornrow technique. Get ready to transform your look with this step-by-step guide on how to achieve flawless feed in braids all by yourself. Let's get started!

What Are Feed In Braids?

Before we jump into the how-to, let's quickly cover what feed in braids actually are. Feed in braids are a braiding technique where you gradually add synthetic hair extensions to your natural hair as you braid. This method creates a seamless and natural-looking braid that appears to grow directly from your scalp. Unlike traditional braids where extensions are attached at the beginning, feed in braids involve incorporating small pieces of braiding hair as you go, resulting in a more blended and less bulky appearance. This technique not only looks fantastic but also reduces tension on your scalp, making it a comfortable and protective style. The beauty of feed in braids lies in their versatility; you can create various patterns, lengths, and thicknesses, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to express their unique style. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, sophisticated look or a bold, eye-catching design, feed in braids offer endless possibilities. Plus, they're a great protective style, helping your natural hair grow while keeping it tucked away from daily damage. So, if you're ready to explore a hairstyle that combines beauty, versatility, and protection, feed in braids are definitely worth a try! They’re a popular choice among those seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish solution for their hair. With the right technique and a bit of practice, you can achieve salon-quality braids right in the comfort of your home.

Preparing Your Hair for Feed In Braids

The foundation of any great hairstyle is well-prepared hair. For feed in braids, this step is crucial to ensure the braids look neat, last long, and protect your natural hair. First things first, you'll want to start with clean hair. Wash your hair thoroughly with a moisturizing shampoo to remove any buildup and impurities. This will create a clean base for the braids and prevent itching or irritation later on. After shampooing, follow up with a deep conditioner to hydrate your strands. Hydrated hair is less prone to breakage and will hold the braids better. Leave the deep conditioner on for at least 20-30 minutes, or as directed on the product label. This step is especially important if your hair tends to be dry or brittle. Once you've rinsed out the deep conditioner, gently detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots to avoid breakage. Detangling is key to a smooth braid application, as it prevents knots and tangles from getting in the way. Next, blow-dry your hair on a low heat setting, or let it air dry partially. It's best to have your hair stretched but not completely dry, as this makes it easier to grip and braid. If you have natural curls or coils, consider using a heat protectant serum before blow-drying to minimize heat damage. Now, it's time to apply a leave-in conditioner or hair moisturizer to lock in hydration. Focus on the ends of your hair, as they tend to be the driest. This will keep your hair moisturized throughout the braiding process and while you wear the braids. Finally, apply a light oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to your scalp to nourish it and prevent dryness. A healthy scalp is essential for hair growth and overall hair health. By taking the time to properly prepare your hair, you're setting yourself up for successful and beautiful feed in braids that will last for weeks. Remember, the better the foundation, the better the final result!

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you start braiding, it's essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything within reach will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to create stunning feed in braids:

1. Braiding Hair Extensions: The type of braiding hair you choose will depend on the look you're going for. Synthetic hair, such as Kanekalon or X-Pression, is a popular and affordable option. It comes in various colors, lengths, and textures. Human hair extensions are also an option for a more natural look and feel, but they tend to be more expensive. Decide on the color and length of the extensions based on your desired style. Usually, 3 to 7 packs of braiding hair are sufficient for a full head of feed in braids, depending on the thickness and length of the braids you want.
2. Comb: A wide-tooth comb is essential for detangling your hair before braiding. A rat-tail comb is also crucial for creating clean parts and sections. The pointed end of the rat-tail comb is perfect for precise parting, which is key to achieving neat and professional-looking braids. The wide-tooth comb ensures that you can gently detangle your hair without causing excessive breakage.
3. Hair Clips or Rubber Bands: These are used to section your hair and keep the unbraided sections out of the way. Clips are generally preferred for their ease of use and ability to hold larger sections of hair. Rubber bands can also be used to secure the ends of the braids, but be careful not to use them too tightly, as this can cause breakage. Sectioning your hair properly is vital for maintaining a clean and organized braiding process. It ensures that you can focus on one section at a time without the rest of your hair interfering.
4. Hair Gel or Edge Control: This product will help smooth your edges and keep the braids neat and sleek. Edge control is typically used for the baby hairs around your hairline, while a stronger hold gel can be used on the parts and braids themselves. A good quality hair gel or edge control will provide a firm hold without leaving your hair feeling stiff or sticky. It's also important to choose a product that doesn't flake, as this can detract from the overall appearance of your braids.
5. Hair Oil: Applying a light oil to your scalp and braids will keep them moisturized and prevent dryness and itching. Coconut oil, jojoba oil, and argan oil are all excellent options. Regular oiling will help maintain the health of your scalp and hair, ensuring that your braids look and feel their best throughout their lifespan. A healthy scalp is essential for hair growth, and consistent moisturizing will prevent issues like dandruff and dryness.
6. Scissors: You'll need scissors to trim any stray hairs and clean up the ends of the braids. Sharp scissors are important for making clean cuts without damaging the extensions or your natural hair. Trimming the ends neatly will give your braids a polished and professional finish. It also helps to maintain the shape and overall appearance of the braids over time.
7. Spray Bottle with Water: A spray bottle filled with water is useful for dampening your hair as you braid, making it easier to manage and manipulate. Slightly damp hair is more pliable and less prone to slipping, which is crucial when working with extensions. The water helps to create a smooth and even braid, ensuring that the extensions blend seamlessly with your natural hair. It also helps to reduce frizz and flyaways, resulting in a neater final look.
8. Mirror: Having a large mirror in front of you and a handheld mirror will help you see the back of your head and ensure that your braids are even and neat. Braiding your own hair can be challenging, especially when you can't see all angles. Using multiple mirrors allows you to check your progress and make adjustments as needed. This is particularly important for achieving symmetry and uniformity throughout your hairstyle.
9. Optional: Crochet Needle: A crochet needle can be useful for tucking in any loose ends or flyaways, creating an even neater finish. This tool helps to create a smooth and seamless look by neatly concealing any stray hairs that might detract from the overall appearance of your braids. While not strictly necessary, a crochet needle can be a valuable addition to your braiding toolkit, especially for those aiming for a flawless and professional-looking result. It's particularly helpful for intricate braid patterns and styles that require a high level of precision.

By gathering these tools and materials beforehand, you'll be well-prepared to create stunning feed in braids on yourself. Remember, having the right tools not only makes the process easier but also contributes to a higher quality and longer-lasting hairstyle.

Step-by-Step Guide to Doing Feed In Braids

Alright, let's get to the heart of the matter – braiding! Follow these steps, and you’ll be rocking flawless feed in braids in no time. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't worry if it takes a few tries to get the hang of it.

Step 1: Part Your Hair

• Using your rat-tail comb, create a clean part where you want your first braid to start. The size and placement of your parts will determine the pattern of your braids, so take your time to ensure they are even and symmetrical. You can opt for straight parts, curved parts, or even geometric designs, depending on your desired look. For beginners, straight parts are the easiest to manage. Once you’ve created the part, section off the hair that will be used for the first braid and clip the rest of your hair out of the way. This will prevent tangling and make the braiding process much smoother. The size of the section will depend on the desired thickness of the braid; smaller sections create thinner braids, while larger sections result in thicker braids. Aim for consistent section sizes throughout your head to ensure a uniform appearance. A clean part is crucial for achieving a polished and professional finish. It sets the foundation for a neat and even braid, which is essential for the overall look of your hairstyle. A well-defined part also helps to reduce tension on your scalp, as it distributes the weight of the extensions more evenly. Use the rat-tail comb to smooth the hair along the part line, ensuring that there are no stray hairs or bumps. This will create a crisp and clean line, making your braids look even more stunning. If you’re struggling to create straight parts, try using a mirror to guide you or ask a friend for assistance. Remember, the time and effort you invest in creating clean parts will pay off in the final result. It’s one of the key factors that distinguishes a professional-looking braid from a DIY attempt. So, take your time, be patient, and focus on creating clear and precise parts for each braid. With practice, you’ll become more efficient at parting your hair, and your feed in braids will look fantastic every time.*

Step 2: Start the Cornrow

• Divide the sectioned hair into three equal strands. This is the foundation for your cornrow. Hold the strands firmly and begin braiding as you would a regular braid, crossing the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle. Keep the braid tight and close to the scalp, maintaining a consistent tension. The initial stitches of the cornrow are the most crucial, as they set the direction and foundation for the rest of the braid. Ensure that you’re braiding in a straight line and that the braid is lying flat against your scalp. Avoid pulling too tightly, as this can cause discomfort and potentially damage your hair follicles. However, the braid should be snug enough to stay in place and hold the extensions securely. As you braid, keep your fingers close to the scalp to maintain control and prevent the braid from becoming loose. This will also help to ensure that the braid is smooth and even. If you’re new to cornrowing, it can be helpful to practice on a small section of hair first before moving on to the full braid. This will allow you to get a feel for the technique and build your confidence. Remember, consistency is key. Strive for even tension and a smooth braiding pattern throughout the entire cornrow. This will not only make your braids look better but also ensure that they last longer. If you notice any bumps or unevenness, stop and adjust the braid as needed. It’s better to correct mistakes early on than to continue braiding and end up with a flawed result. With practice, you’ll develop a rhythm and find the technique that works best for you. Cornrowing is a fundamental skill for many braiding styles, so mastering it is a worthwhile investment in your hairstyling abilities. Once you’ve established a solid cornrow foundation, you’re ready to start feeding in the extensions and transforming your hairstyle.*

Step 3: Feed In the Extensions

• This is where the magic happens! Take a small piece of braiding hair extension and fold it in half. Place the folded section over one of the three strands of your natural hair. As you continue braiding, incorporate the extension hair into the braid by adding small pieces at a time. This creates the