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Weave a four-sided fishtail braid

Use a low side ponytail to keep the two main sections steady while learning the over-and-under pairs. Work only as far as the sections remain clear and comfortable.

Step by step

  1. An adult separates a side ponytail into two similar main sections.
    STEP 1 OF 3

    Anchor and divide the ponytail

    • Tie a comfortable low side ponytail and bring its length forward without pulling at the roots. Keep a second soft tie within reach.
    • Divide the tail into two similar main sections. Gently separate tangles and keep a visible gap between the sections.
  2. An adult splits a fine outer pickup beside the right main section before its paired wrap.
    STEP 2 OF 3

    Wrap a split pickup around each side

    • Take a fine pickup from the outer right edge and split it in two. Pass one half over the right main section and the other half under it; join both to the left section.
    • Mirror this on the left: split a fine outer pickup, pass its halves over and under the left main section, then join both to the right.
    • Alternate sides with similar small pickups. Stop before short ends become hard to control and secure the braid with the second tie.
  3. An adult holds released loose hair with both removed ties on the table.
    STEP 3 OF 3

    Unwrap before removing the base tie

    • Check that the ties and roots feel comfortable. To take down, remove the end tie and gently reverse the last paired wrap.
    • Continue upward, separating the over-and-under pickups with your fingers. Once the braid is completely undone, remove the base tie and gently release the hair.

One reachable braid; learning and removal can take longer.

Unmeasured editorial handling estimate for the stated scope. Familiarity, access and the item or hair being handled change the time.

You’re done when…

Alternating paired wraps form a braid secured at the end, with comfortable roots and no caught or knotted pickups.