Instructions for Braiding Short Hair in a Cornrow Style

If you have short hair and are looking for a stylish and low-maintenance hairstyle, cornrows can be a great option. Not only do they keep your hair neat and tidy, but they also offer countless possibilities for creativity and personalization. With a little patience and practice, you can achieve stunning cornrow braids that will make you stand out from the crowd. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to braid short hair in a cornrow style.

Step 1: Prepare Your Hair

Before you start braiding, make sure your hair is clean, dry, and tangle-free. It’s best to wash and condition your hair the day before to ensure it is free from any product buildup. Detangle your hair using a wide-toothed comb or your fingers, working from the ends to the roots.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into small sections using a rat-tail comb. The size of the sections will depend on your desired cornrow size. For smaller cornrows, create smaller sections, and for larger ones, create larger sections. Use the comb to make clean, straight parts, and clip or tie away the sections you are not currently working on to avoid confusion.

Step 3: Begin Braiding

Start by taking a small section of hair from the front, close to the hairline. Divide this section into three equal strands, just like you would for a regular braid. Cross the right strand over the middle strand, then cross the left strand over the new middle strand. This is the basic braiding technique.

Step 4: Add Hair as You Go

To create cornrows, you need to add hair to the braid as you go along. As you cross the right strand over the middle, pick up a small section of hair from the next section you’re working on and include it in the braid. Hold the added hair tightly with the right strand. Repeat the same step with the left strand, adding hair from the next section.

Step 5: Continue Braiding

Continue braiding your hair, always adding hair from each section before crossing the strands over the middle. Ensure the braid is tight but not too tight to avoid discomfort. Keep the size of the cornrows consistent throughout the process to achieve a clean, uniform look.

Step 6: Secure the Ends

When you reach the end of your hair or the desired length of your cornrow, braid the remaining hair without adding hair from the sections. Secure the end of the braid with a small elastic band or a hair clip. You can also apply a lightweight hair gel or wax to the hairline to keep the cornrows sleek and in place.

Step 7: Repeat the Process

Repeat steps 3 to 6 until you have braided all the sections of your hair. Be patient and take breaks if needed, as braiding short hair can be more time-consuming compared to longer hair.

Step 8: Maintenance and Care

Keep your cornrows looking fresh by moisturizing your scalp regularly with a hair oil or conditioner. Avoid using heavy products that may weigh down your hair. Sleep with a satin or silk bonnet or scarf to prevent frizz and maintain the cornrows’ shape.

With these instructions, you can confidently braid your short hair in a cornrow style. Experiment with different patterns, partings, and embellishments to create unique and stylish looks. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t flawless. Take your time, be patient, and have fun exploring the versatile world of cornrow braids!