If you have very long hair, drape it over your shoulder so you start with your hair all on 1 side. You could also use clips to hold the hair you aren’t braiding out of the way.

The larger the chunks are, the larger the braid will be. One strand should fall entirely in the right hand, another should fall entirely in the left hand, and the strand between them should be held by both your right and left hand. To start the look, find a space away from mirrors. Mirrors seem like they would be helpful to the process, as they allow you to see what you’re doing. However, mirrors can actually provide more confusion. You will be watching mirror images of your hands, which can cause you to reach for the wrong strands of hair. It’s easier to braid your hair without relying on a mirror for guidance.

Be sure to cross your left strand over the middle strand that was once the right strand. Do not cross the left strand over the former middle strand.

If you’re new to French braiding, the braid might be loose or a little messy. Don’t worry, though! You’ll be able to create tight, neat braids with a little bit of practice.

This is the start of a French braid. Continue this pattern until you reach the end of your hair.