Braiding is a versatile and beautiful way to style your hair, and it can be used to create a variety of looks, from elegant to casual. However, if you’re new to braiding, it can seem like a daunting task. One of the trickiest parts of braiding is joining the leader to the braid, but with a little practice, you’ll be able to do it like a pro.
To join the leader to the braid, start by creating a small loop at the end of the leader. Then, take the end of the braid and insert it into the loop. Pull the braid through the loop and tighten it. Now, you’re ready to start braiding! Continue braiding as usual, adding hair from the sides of your head as you go. When you reach the end of the braid, secure it with a hair elastic.
Joining the leader to the braid is a simple technique that will help you create beautiful braids every time. With a little practice, you’ll be able to do it quickly and easily. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hairbrush and get started!
Preparing the Materials
Selecting the Leader Material
When choosing a leader material for braid, several factors need to be considered to ensure optimal performance:
- Strength: The leader should be strong enough to withstand the stress of hooking and fighting a fish while also preventing the main braided line from breaking. Consider the breaking strength of your braided line to select an appropriate leader material.
- Diameter: The diameter of the leader should be proportional to the size of the braided line to minimize the risk of creating a weak point where the two lines are connected. A thicker diameter leader may be necessary for larger fish species or heavier lures.
- Flexibility: The leader material should be flexible enough to allow for easy knot tying and manipulation while also providing sufficient stiffness to maintain its shape in the water. This balance ensures a natural presentation and reduces the chances of tangles.
- Abrasion Resistance: The leader may encounter abrasive structures in the water, such as rocks or barnacles. Choose a material that is highly resistant to abrasion to prevent premature wear or breakage.
- Visibility: Consider the visibility of the leader material in the water. Clear or translucent leaders are often preferred for clear water conditions, while darker or colored leaders may be more suitable in murky or stained waters.
Types of Leader Materials
There are various types of leader materials available, each with its unique properties:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fluorocarbon | – High strength – Abrasion resistance – Low visibility |
– Can be stiff – More expensive |
| Monofilament | – Flexible – Affordable |
– Lower strength – Less abrasion resistance |
| Wire | – Extremely strong – Bite-proof for toothy fish |
– Thick and visible – Can be difficult to tie knots |
Sectioning the Hair
Sectioning the hair is an important step in preparing to join leader to braid. It helps to create a foundation for a secure and even braid. There are several different ways to section the hair, but the most common method is to use three equal sections. To do this, follow these steps:
- Start with the hair combed and free of tangles.
- Use a comb or your fingers to create a center part from the forehead to the nape of the neck.
- Create two more parts by dividing each half of the hair into thirds. This will give you three equal sections of hair: a left section, a right section, and a center section.
Another way to section the hair is to use two unequal sections. This method is often used when creating a side braid. To do this, follow these steps:
- Create a side part from the forehead to the nape of the neck.
- Divide the hair into two unequal sections, with the larger section on the side of the part where you want the braid to be.
| Sectioning Method | Description | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Three equal sections | Dividing the hair into three equal parts | Most common method, creates a secure and even braid |
| Two unequal sections | Dividing the hair into two unequal parts | Often used for side braids, creates a more asymmetrical look |
Creating the Leader Braid
Begin by creating a loop at one end of the leader. To do this, simply fold the end of the leader back on itself, creating a small loop. Then, wet the loop with saliva or water to help hold it in place.
Next, take the tag end of the fly line and pass it through the loop you just created. Pull the tag end through the loop until you have about 6 inches of line hanging out the other side. This is known as the “tag end.”
Now, take the tag end and pass it through the loop again, but this time from the opposite side. Pull the tag end through the loop until it is snug against the first loop. This will create a braid that is strong and secure.
Tips for Creating a Strong Leader Braid
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a wet knot | Wetting the knot before tightening it will help to cinch it down and prevent it from slipping. |
| Pull the tag end slowly | Pulling the tag end too quickly can cause the knot to cinch down too tightly and break. |
| Trim the tag end | Once the knot is tied, trim the tag end to about 1/4 inch. This will help to prevent it from getting caught on anything. |
By following these tips, you can create a leader braid that is strong and secure, and that will help you catch more fish.
Beginning the Dutch Braid
1. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. Start by taking a small section of hair from the top of your head, near your forehead.
2. Divide this section into three equal strands: left, middle, and right.
3. Cross the left strand over the middle strand. Then, cross the right strand over the new middle strand (which was previously the left strand).
4. Now, you will add hair from the sides into each section as you braid. Take a small section of hair from the left side and add it to the left strand. Cross the left strand over the middle strand again.
Take a small section of hair from the right side and add it to the right strand. Cross the right strand over the new middle strand.
Continue adding hair from the sides and crossing the strands over each other until you reach the nape of your neck. At this point, you can continue braiding without adding any more hair.
5. Once you reach the end of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie or elastic band.
Incorporating the Leader Braid
Once the leader is braided, it’s time to incorporate it into the main braid. Here’s how to do it:
- Separate the hair into three strands: Take the left strand of the main braid and the two outer strands of the leader braid. These will be the three working strands.
- Cross the left strand of the leader braid over the center strand: This creates the new left strand of the main braid.
- Cross the center strand over the right strand: This forms the new center strand.
- Now, the right strand becomes the new leader: Cross the right strand over the center strand. This strand will become the new leader.
- Repeat steps 2-4: Continue braiding in this manner, alternating between crossing the leader strand over the center and then crossing the center over the right. As you braid, gradually incorporate more hair from the main braid into the leader, blending them seamlessly.
Tip: For a smoother transition, divide the main braid into thinner sections as you approach the leader braid. This will make it easier to blend the two braids together.
| Strands | Action |
|---|---|
| Left (main braid) | Cross over center (new left) |
| Center | Cross over right (new center) |
| Right (main braid) | Cross over center (new leader) |
Alternating Strands
Once there are two braids, it’s time to connect them using the strands on the outer side. This requires alternating the strands between the two braids so that they interlock. Here’s a step-by-step guide to alternating strands and joining the braids:
- Divide the Strands: Separate each braid into three even strands, as you did when creating the individual braids.
- Cross the Outer Strands: Cross the outer strand of the left braid over the middle strand of the right braid.
- Bring the Middle Strand Over: Bring the middle strand of the right braid over the outer strand of the right braid, creating a loop.
- Pull the Crossed Strand Through the Loop: Pull the outer strand of the left braid through the loop created by the middle strand of the right braid.
- Cross the Outer Strands Again: Cross the outer strand of the right braid over the middle strand of the left braid.
- Bring the Middle Strand Over and Pull Through: Bring the middle strand of the left braid over the outer strand of the left braid and pull it through the loop created by the outer strand of the right braid.
Continue alternating and connecting the strands in this manner until the two braids are fully joined into one.
Tightening the Braid
Once the leader is attached to the braid, it’s important to tighten the connection to ensure a secure and durable bond. Here are detailed steps on how to tighten the braid:
-
Stabilize the Braid
Hold the braid steady with one hand, keeping it taut.
-
Tighten the Leader
Wrap the leader around its own standing part, creating a loop.
-
Feed the Leader through the Loop
Hold the loop with one hand and feed the free end of the leader through it.
-
Pull Tight
Slowly but firmly pull on both ends of the leader to tighten the connection.
-
Check the Tension
Inspect the tightness of the braid by gently tugging on it.
-
Trim Excess Leader
Once the desired tension is achieved, cut off any excess leader.
-
Finish with a Surgeon’s Knot
To ensure a strong and reliable connection, finish by tying a surgeon’s knot. This involves creating an overhand knot with both ends of the leader and pulling it tight. Repeat the knot for added security.
Finishing the Braid
Once you have braided all the way to the end of the hair, it’s time to finish the braid.
Step 8: Secure the End
To secure the end of the braid, you can use a variety of methods:
Method Description Elastic band Tie an elastic band around the end of the braid. Ribbon Tie a ribbon around the end of the braid and knot it. Bobby pins Secure the end of the braid with bobby pins. Hairspray Spray the end of the braid with hairspray to hold it in place. Which method you choose will depend on the desired look and how well your hair holds styles.
Once the end of the braid is secured, you can gently tug on the sides of the braid to loosen it slightly and create a more voluminous look.
Securing the Braid
After braiding all of your hair, it’s time to secure the braid to keep it in place. There are several methods to do this, depending on the type of braid and the desired hold. Here are a few common techniques:
Hair Elastic
The most straightforward method is to use a hair elastic. Simply gather the end of the braid and wrap the elastic around it twice. This is a quick and easy way to secure the braid, but it may not be the most comfortable if the elastic is too tight.
Bobby Pins
Bobby pins can also be used to secure a braid. Insert a bobby pin through the end of the braid, looping it around the base. If the braid is particularly thick, you may need to use multiple bobby pins to keep it in place.
Hair Clips
Hair clips are another option for securing a braid. Choose a clip that is large enough to hold the braid securely. Insert the clip into the end of the braid, and secure it in place.
Ribbons
Ribbons can add a decorative touch to your braid while also securing it. Wrap the ribbon around the end of the braid, and tie it in a bow or knot. You can also use the ribbon to create a more elaborate design.
Barrettes
Barrettes are similar to hair clips, but they typically have a more decorative design. Insert the barrette into the end of the braid, and secure it in place.
Hair Grips
Hair grips are small, U-shaped pins that can be used to secure a braid. Insert the hair grip into the end of the braid, looping it around the base. You may need to use multiple hair grips to keep the braid in place.
Styling Cream
Styling cream can be used to help hold a braid in place without using any additional products. Apply a small amount of styling cream to your hands, and rub it into the end of the braid. This will help to keep the braid together and prevent it from unraveling.
Hairspray
Hairspray can be used to help keep a braid in place once it has been secured. Spray the hairspray evenly over the braid, and let it dry completely. This will help to keep the braid in place throughout the day.
Method Hold Comfort Hair Elastic Moderate Low Bobby Pins Strong Moderate Hair Clips Moderate High Ribbons Decorative Moderate Barrettes Decorative High Hair Grips Moderate Low Styling Cream Light High Hairspray Strong Moderate Styling the Braid
Once you have successfully joined the leader to the braid, you can begin styling the braid to create various looks. Here are some common styling techniques:
1. Classic Braid
This is the most basic and timeless braid style. Divide the braid into three equal strands and cross the left strand over the middle strand, then the right strand over the middle strand. Repeat this process all the way down the braid.
2. French Braid
Also known as a Dutch braid, a French braid involves taking small sections of hair from the sides and weaving them into the main braid. This creates a raised and intricate look.
3. Fishtail Braid
This elegant braid resembles a fish’s tail. Take two small strands from the outer edge of the braid and cross them over each other to create a new strand in the middle. Repeat this process on both sides.
4. Lace Braid
This delicate braid features sections of hair that are pulled out and laced over the main braid. The result is an openwork and romantic look.
5. Ladder Braid
A ladder braid is created by dividing the braid into two equal strands and then looping them over each other to create a ladder-like effect.
6. Crown Braid
This intricate braid circles the head like a crown. Start by braiding a headband along the back of the head, then gather hair from the sides and braid it into the headband.
7. Waterfall Braid
This ethereal braid features sections of hair that are cascaded down like a waterfall. Take a small section of hair from the top of the braid and let it fall, while braiding the rest of the hair.
8. Milkmaid Braid
This practical braid can be worn on top of the head for a classic and charming look. Braid the hair into two pigtails and wrap them around each other to create a halo effect.
9. Bun Braid
This versatile braid can be styled into a bun. Braid the hair and then wrap it around itself to create a secure and elegant updo.
10. Multiple Braids
For a more complex and eye-catching look, experiment with braiding multiple braids into a single hairstyle. Try combining different braid styles or adding accessories like beads or ribbons to create a unique and personalized look.
How To Join Leader To Braid
Step 1: Prepare the braid.
Braid the desired number of strands together, leaving a few inches of loose end at the top. Secure the top of the braid with a hair tie.
Step 2: Attach the leader.
Take the loose end of the leader and thread it through the eye of a needle. Pull the needle through the top of the braid, about 1 inch from the hair tie.
Step 3: Tie the knot.
Tie a simple overhand knot with the leader, securing it to the braid.
Step 4: Trim the loose ends.
Trim any excess leader or braid ends.
Step 5: Secure the leader.
To ensure the leader stays secure, add a small dab of super glue to the knot.
People Also Ask
How do you join two braids together?
Braid both strands separately. Overlap the ends of the braids by a few inches. Tie a simple overhand knot with the two braids, securing them together.
How do you attach hair extensions to a braid?
Braid the natural hair into a cornrow. Separate the hair extensions into small sections. Using a hair extension tool, clamp the extensions onto the braid, starting near the top.
How do you attach a thread to a braid?
Thread a needle with the thread. Push the needle through the braid from the back to the front, about 1 inch from the end. Tie a knot with the thread, securing it to the braid.
