Make a three-strand slide-up braid

Step by step

1. 

   STEP 1 OF 3

   Braid a small side section loosely

   • Clip surrounding hair away from a small dry detangled side section above an ear. Divide the section into three roughly equal strands.
   • Alternate outer strands over the center to make a loose braid. Stop with enough free ends to hold all three separately; do not tie them yet.
2. 

   STEP 2 OF 3

   Slide two strands along the held middle strand

   • Hold the middle end strand steady in one hand without pulling at the root. Hold the other two ends together in the other hand.
   • Gently slide the two strands upward along the held strand. Stop well before the roots and stop immediately for resistance; do not force a bunched knot.
   • Ease the gathered loops back down a little to reveal a zigzag. Hold the lowest loop and tie all three ends below it with the soft tie.
3. 

   STEP 3 OF 3

   Reverse the slide before unbraiding

   • Release the sectioning clip and check for pulling. After wear, remove the end tie and support the small braid.
   • Ease the gathered loops back down the held strand until the loose braid extends again. Open the crossings from the bottom upward; stop for catches.