Braiding super short hair can seem challenging, but it’s entirely possible! In fact, shorter hair gives a fresh, modern twist to traditional braids. Whether you have a pixie cut, a bob, or a short cropped style, there are several creative ways to incorporate braids into your look.
The beauty of short hair is its versatility—braids can add texture, interest, and style without overwhelming the natural shape of your cut. While braiding might take a little more effort with shorter strands, it can make a bold statement and give your hair a unique edge.
In this article, we’ll explore how to braid super short hair in a simple and effective way, offering step-by-step guidance, tips, and techniques that you can use for different styles of short hair. Whether you’re a hairstylist working with clients or someone looking to do it yourself, this guide will help you master braiding short hair.
Why Braid Super Short Hair?
Short hair is often seen as “low-maintenance” because it’s easy to style and doesn’t require a lot of time or products. However, adding a braid to your short hairstyle can elevate your look and give you more variety. Here are some reasons why braiding super short hair is worth trying:
1. Adds Texture and Volume
Short hair can sometimes feel flat or lack texture. Braids add volume and depth, giving your hair more body and dimension. Whether you do a simple side braid or a more intricate design, braiding enhances the appearance of your hair.
2. Versatile and Stylish
Braids can be adapted to suit any occasion. A loose, messy braid is perfect for casual outings, while a tighter, neat braid can look sophisticated and polished for formal events. It’s a style that can be dressed up or down, depending on your mood or the event.
3. Protective Style
Braids can also serve as a protective style for your hair, especially if it’s freshly cut or you’re growing it out. They prevent excessive heat styling and offer a low-maintenance option for keeping your hair neat while adding flair.
4. Easy to Achieve with Short Hair
While braiding long hair requires a bit more time and skill, short hair is actually easier to work with in many ways. There’s less hair to deal with, which means you can braid faster. Plus, short hair usually doesn’t tangle as easily, making the braiding process smoother.
Tools You’ll Need to Braid Super Short Hair
Before we jump into the different techniques, let’s make sure you have the right tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make braiding super short hair easier and more effective:
- Hair Ties/Elastic Bands: These will be necessary for securing braids, especially on short hair where there may not be as much to hold onto.
- Bobby Pins: Useful for securing loose ends or small braids that you want to keep tucked away.
- Comb/Brush: A comb or brush will help detangle your hair before you start braiding.
- Texturizing Spray or Mousse: To add grip and texture, especially if your hair is very fine or slippery. These products give your hair the “hold” it needs for braids to stay intact.
- Small Clips: Helpful for sectioning off small parts of your hair as you work through the braids.
- Hairspray: For finishing off your look, making sure your braids stay in place all day.
How to Braid Super Short Hair
Now that you’re prepared with the right tools, let’s walk through the steps to braiding super short hair. While each braid style requires slightly different techniques, the basic steps are similar for all types of braids.
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Start by washing and conditioning your hair. Short hair can often look better when it’s clean and fresh. Once your hair is damp, apply a small amount of mousse or texturizing spray for added volume and texture. If your hair is fine or thin, this will help give it the grip needed for braids.
Gently comb through your hair to remove tangles. Be careful not to break any strands, especially if you’ve recently had a cut. You may want to towel dry your hair lightly before starting, leaving it damp but not soaking wet.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
The key to braiding short hair is working with small sections. Unlike long hair where you can grab larger portions to braid, short hair needs to be split into smaller, manageable sections.
Start by dividing your hair into different parts based on the type of braid you want to create. You can use clips to keep sections out of the way as you work on each one. You may want to leave the top part of your hair out while you start braiding the sides or back first.
Step 3: Choose Your Braiding Style
There are a variety of braiding styles that can be done on short hair, ranging from simple and relaxed to more complex designs. Here are a few different braids to try:
1. Side Braid (French or Dutch)
Start by taking a small section of hair near the temple.
Divide the section into three parts and begin braiding as you would a regular braid.
As you continue to braid, add small pieces of hair from the rest of the section, working your way down to your ear or the nape of your neck.
Secure with an elastic band at the end and use a bobby pin to secure any loose strands.
This is great for short hair because it pulls the braid close to your scalp and allows for neatness.
2. Tiny Braids (Multiple Mini Braids)
Section your hair into tiny sections (roughly 1-inch pieces).
Braid each section individually, using the same three-strand technique.
Secure each mini braid with a small elastic band.
You can leave the braids intact or combine them for a fuller, textured look.
3. Waterfall Braid
Begin by creating a side part in your hair.
Take a small section from the top part of your head.
Start braiding the hair, but instead of crossing each strand over, allow the bottom strand to “fall” and pick up a new piece of hair from the section.
Repeat this process all the way down, leaving a cascading, waterfall-like braid.
This style works especially well on bobs or pixie cuts.
4. Crown Braid
A crown braid is great for short hair because it creates a halo effect, drawing attention to your face and features.
Start with a deep side part and create a French or Dutch braid along your hairline.
Braid in a circular pattern around your head, gathering hair as you go.
Secure the braid at the end, using bobby pins to pin any loose ends.
5. Halo Braid
A halo braid involves braiding a section of hair along the perimeter of your head, giving you a halo-like effect.
Divide your hair into two sections: one for the braid and one for the loose hair.
Braid the selected section of hair and pin it around your head, securing with bobby pins.
The loose hair can be styled with waves or left straight to complete the look.
Step 4: Secure Your Braids
Once you’ve braided your hair to your desired length, secure each braid with small elastic bands or bobby pins. For added style, you can gently tug at the braids to loosen them for a more relaxed, voluminous look.
Step 5: Finish with Hairspray
After you’ve finished braiding, spray your hair lightly with a flexible-hold hairspray. This will help keep your braids intact without making them stiff or crunchy. The hairspray will also protect your hair from humidity or any weather conditions.
Tips for Braiding Super Short Hair
- Patience is key: Short hair requires a little more precision and patience when braiding. Start with small sections and work your way up to bigger designs.
- Use texture products: For extra grip, texture sprays, or mousse will help your braids stay in place without slipping.
- Practice makes perfect: If you’re new to braiding short hair, don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t turn out perfectly the first time. Practice and experimenting with different styles will help you find what works best for you.
- Incorporate accessories: Use hairpins, beads, or clips to add a decorative touch to your braids. It’s a fun way to enhance your short hair look.
Conclusion
Braiding super short hair might seem tricky at first, but it’s a style that adds creativity, texture, and flair to your everyday look. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of practice, you can create beautiful braids that complement your short hair. Whether you’re looking for a simple side braid, tiny braids, or an intricate crown braid, short hair offers endless possibilities. So, experiment with different braids and embrace your inner stylist—your short hair will never look the same!
