Braid Class: Fishtail

In this previous post I taught the Dutch French Braid.  At that same braid class I went to at Blo the Fishtail braid was also taught. I can’t say enough about the class.  It was well taught and I had one on one time with a stylist when I had any questions or problems. I was able to do the Fishtail before the class but I learned a few tips that helped tremendously. 


Fishtail – the Basics
It is my favorite braid to do and is typically the hairstyle I go for when I need to fix a bad hair day. Once you get the basics down, it is not a hard braid to do. The finished braid looks so intricate and time consuming but its not!! While you are braiding, keep the fishtail as tight as possible! Once you are done, you can loosen the braid but it is very difficult to make it tighter.


Prep


Prepping your hair for the Fishtail is the same as other braids (explained here). You want to give your hair some grip so the braid stays put.  Having some curl or wave to your hair will give the braid more texture and interest. 

Process

1. Gather all of your hair at the nape of your neck. If you are first learning or need help keeping the braid tight, tie your hair in a ponytail with a clear elastic.
2. Divide your hair into two equal sections and hold one with each hand.
3. Take a small piece from the outside of the right section and cross it over to the left section.
4. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right section.
5. Repeat until you reach the end of your hair.
6. Tie off with a clear elastic.
7. If you started with the hair tied in a clear elastic, cut the elastic out.
8. If you want the braid messier or looser pull on pieces throughout the braid.