Do you love the look of a French braid but feel intimidated about trying the technique? Try fishbone braids instead. You don't have to keep so much hair under control all at once and there's a lot less twisting involved! For many people, fishbone braids take longer than a French braid, but the end result is elegant. The next time you'd like to try a new braiding technique, give the fishbone a whirl and see what you think!
Take a small section of hair from where you want your braids to begin and divide it into two sections. Make sure the stay even and comb each one so it's smooth. Now, cross the right hand section over the left hand section and pull the sections away from each other to tighten them.
Next, use the pointed end of a comb to lift a small section of hair from the right by parting your hair from the hairline to the middle of the braiding- about a 1/2 inch or so below the first plait you made. Add that new section of hair to the section on the right hand side. Now cross the newly enlarged right section over the left section and pull it slightly to tighten it.
Take that pointed end of the comb again and lift a small section of the hair on the left side by parting your hair from the hairline to the middle of the braid- just as you did on the right side. Add the new section to the left hand section, cross over the right and pull tight.
Continue alternating sides until you reach the nape of your neck. Fasten with an elastic ponytail holder. You can finish the style by either letting the ponytail hang straight or by finishing a regular braid down the rest of your hair and fastening with a second elastic ponytail holder.
Once you've perfected the fishbone braid, you are ready to take on the slightly more complicated French braid.
 | Little girls always want to learn how to braid hair. If you have a little one to teach - or missed the lesson the first time around - here's your chance to master the technique. |
 | Learning |
 | Different braid styles tend to be named for geographic regions, but are universally enjoyed worldwide. |
Learning to make a four strand flat braid guarantees that you will always be able to create a sleek and timeless look. |
Learning how to braid your own hair requires patience and coordination, but having the ability to form an even and smooth braid whenever you like is more than worth the initial time commitment. |
