Braiding Basics
The natural hair texture most commonly associated with braiding.
What is textured hair?
Used to separate hair into clean, defined sections.
What is a tail comb?
This braid consists of overlapping strands that form a “rope.”
What is a rope braid?
Hair that is prepared for braiding and sold in bundles.
What is synthetic hair?
Braiding dates back to this ancient civilization.
What is Africa or Ancient Egypt?
This determines the size and tightness of the braid.
What is the parting and tension?
This tool is ideal for lifting and separating textured hair.
What is an afro pick?
These small, single braids are done with or without extensions.
What are box braids?
Fiber that mimics natural human hair and is flame-retardant.
What is kanekalon?
Braiding patterns often reflect this about a person.
What is social status or tribe?
A technique that uses three strands and is woven underhand.
What is visible/invisible braid?
Used to create tension and reduce frizz during braiding.
What is pomade or gel?
Flat, tight braids made close to the scalp.
What are cornrows (canerows)?
This natural fiber is very durable and can be used in braiding.
What is yak or yak hair?
In many cultures, braiding is considered this type of tradition.
What is a social or communal tradition?
This braid pattern is created using the overhand technique.
What is an invisible braid?
Material used to extend braids and add volume or length.
What is extension hair?
A braid technique that involves wrapping two strands around each other.
What is a twist?
Extensions added to cornrows for length and volume.
What are feed-in braids?
Braiding techniques are passed down through this.
What is oral tradition or family?
The direction in which you braid hair affects this result.
What is the finished style/look?
Before braiding, this process stretches and softens the natural curl.
What is blowdrying or stretching?
A braid technique that uses five strands.
What is a five-strand braid?
A method of securing extensions to the base of natural hair.
What is braiding or wrapping?
Historically, braids were used as this for enslaved people.
What is a map or message system?