How To Create Tinsel Braids

Dutch braids are created in summer style, and adding tinsel to your braids is a fun and creative way to switch up a traditional style.

Adding tinsel to dutch braids is simple, and here is our step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Prep your tinsel ready for the fitting. For our client, we are using 2 packs of pink tinsel, one pack for each braid. To prep the tinsel we are dividing each pack into 4 pieces, with the first piece being the smallest and then getting progressively larger.  Then add a bobby pin in the middle of each tinsel piece and put it within arm's length so you can easily take each piece as you are braiding.

Step 2: Prep your client's hair ready for her braids. To do this, you first need to split the hair down the middle into two even parts. Then apply gel around the hairline and brush through the hair to tame any flyaways and make the hair easier to handle.

Step 3: Begin your dutch braid in the usual way, braiding a full transition before adding your first piece of tinsel. After one full transition, insert your bobby pin into the base of your braid so that it full extends out to the other side. Place each side of the tinsel piece so that it matches up with the outer sections of your braid. Then continue to braid as normal, incorporating the tinsel into your sections.

Top tip: If you notice the tinsel slipping, ask your client to hold onto the end of the bobby pin whilst you do the first few transitions with your tinsel piece.

Step 4: After 2-3 transitions, repeat this process with the next piece of tinsel, and repeat this all the way down the head until you have used all of your tinsel.

Step 5: Finish your braid all the way to the end of the hair, securing with a clear elastic band and trimming the tinsel so that it is the same length as the natural hair.

Step 6: Repeat this process on the opposite side before finishing off with hairspray.