Stretch a small section with African threading

Step by step

1. 

   STEP 1 OF 3

   Prepare one reachable section

   • Use smooth thread intended for hair, prepared away from your head with enough length to wrap the section and leave free ends.
   • Start with damp detangled curls or coils. Clip other hair aside and bring one small front or side section forward without stretching the roots.
2. 

   STEP 2 OF 3

   Anchor and wind the thread down

   • Lay a short thread tail along the upper length, leaving slack at the scalp. Hold it with the hair and wrap the long thread around both to anchor it.
   • Support the section as you wind down its length in even turns. Keep the hair gently extended, without squeezing the section or tugging its roots.
   • Continue beyond the hair tips and tie the thread to itself with an easy-to-undo knot, keeping hair out. Let the section hang and undo any area that pulls.
3. 

   STEP 3 OF 3

   Dry and unwind every turn

   • Air-dry the trial section. Undo the end knot and a few wraps to check the inner hair; if damp, rewrap gently and allow more time.
   • Once dry, undo the thread knot and unwind toward the base, one turn at a time. Support the hair and free any caught strand with your fingers.
   • Do not cut near the hair or drag thread through it. Remove every turn and sectioning clip, then arrange the released section gently.