How to Do Crochet Braids for Black Hair

Crochet braids are a non-chemical way to have straight hair for most African-American women. The process requires no hair glue or caps, so damage to the hair and scalp is minimal. Crocheting braids in your hair can allow you to change your hair color to match your outfit or change your naturally short hair into long flowing tresses for a special occasion.

Begin your style by separating your hair into small equal sections on your head, parting the hair from front to back. Begin creating small french braids in each section by picking up a one inch section from your separated row to braid, and then adding more hair from the row with each knot of your braid. Cornrow braid the entire head of hair from the forehead to the nape of the neck. Secure each row with a rubber band. This lays the plan for all desired styles.

Slide the hook end of the crochet needle under the first braid of the cornrow on the left side of the head with the hook pointing upwards.

Fold a small section of your packaged hair in half, holding it to leave a loop at the end.

Place the folded end of the hair around the hook of the crochet needle and pull the hair under the cornrow.

Using your fingers, pull the two loose ends of the packaged hair through the loop and tighten. The strand should lay over the top of the row, covering the natural braided hair.

Continue crocheting the hair down the cornrow leaving only small spaces between the rows until the entire head is covered.

Cut your hair to the desired style. Layered looks and Bob styles are popular with crochet braids along with long flowing one-length looks. Remove the added locks by simply cutting the packaged hair at the crocheted loop.