French braids are a timeless, elegant hairstyle that can enhance any outfit or occasion. For beginners, the process of creating a French braid might seem complex, but with a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to achieve this beautiful and versatile look. In this article, we’ll guide you through the 11 steps to start and complete a French braid.

1. Brush your hair: To start, make sure your hair is thoroughly brushed and free of any knots or tangles. A smooth surface will ensure that your braid is neat and tidy.

2. Choose a starting point: The starting point of your French braid will depend on the desired outcome. You can begin at the top of your head for a classic look, or closer to your forehead for a more modern style.

3. Divide hair into sections: Once you’ve chosen a starting point, take a small section of hair (about 2 inches wide) and divide it into three equal parts – left, middle, and right strands.

4. Begin braiding: Cross the right strand over the middle strand so that it becomes the new center strand. Now cross the left strand over the new center strand so that it becomes the middle.

5. Add hair to strands: To create the French braid effect, you’ll need to gradually add more hair to each strand as you continue pulling them over one another. Start by finding a small section of loose hair near the right strand and combining it with the current right strand.

6. Continue braiding: As before, cross the enlarged right strand over the middle one, then find a small section of loose hair near your left strand and combine it with that left strand.

7. Repeat steps 5-6: Keep repeating steps 5 and 6 as you work your way down your head, adding more hair to each side strand as you go.

8. Choose an ending point: Once you’ve reached the base of your neck, or when there is no more hair to add, you can decide whether to continue with a regular braid or secure the hair with a hairband.

9. Finish as a traditional braid: To finish the French braid as a traditional plait, continue braiding the hair without adding any additional strands. Simply cross the left and right strands over the middle strand until you reach the end of your hair.

10. Secure the braid: Use a small, clear elastic hairband to tie off the end of your braid, making sure it’s tight enough to hold the braid in place but not too tight that it causes discomfort.

11. Tidy up: To complete your French braid, carefully check for any loose hairs and tuck them in using a bobby pin or gently smooth them down using a fine-toothed comb or brush.

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of starting and finishing a French braid. With time and practice, you’ll become more comfortable with the technique, allowing you to experiment with various styles and variations of this timeless hairstyle.