My First Steps into the World of Box Braids
In the realm of personal growth and continuous learning, my latest endeavor has been mastering the intricate art of box braiding. Box braiding stood out due to its combination of beauty, functionality, and the precision required to execute it properly. I was drawn to the structure and neatness of the braids, knowing that this would be a skill that would not only test my patience but also enhance my creativity. Before diving into the actual braiding, I did extensive research. Watching countless tutorial videos, on Tiktok and also looking at pins on Pinterest boards that I have been adding to my learning project board Braiding Project, and gathering the necessary tools and products, such as a rat-tail comb, clips, and hair moisturizer. The preparation phase reminded me of the meticulous planning needed for successful lesson delivery in the classroom, where having the right resources and a clear strategy is vital. was the first step.The Learning Curve. The first attempt at box braiding was, unsurprisingly, a mix of excitement and frustration. Sectioning the hair into perfect squares and maintaining consistent tension throughout each braid proved to be more challenging than I had anticipated. My fingers fumbled, and the braids were far from uniform.
- Preparation:
- Wash, condition, and thoroughly detangle the hair.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer to ensure the hair is hydrated.
- Gather all necessary tools: rat-tail comb, clips, hair ties, and edge control gel.
- Sectioning the Hair:
- Use the rat-tail comb to part the hair into four large sections to make it more manageable.
- Clip three of the sections out of the way, leaving one section to start with.
- Creating Boxes:
- From the chosen section, create a small square section at the nape of the neck.
- Secure the rest of the hair with clips to keep it out of the way.
- Apply a small amount of edge control gel to the roots of the sectioned hair for a sleek look.
- Braiding:
- Divide the square section into three equal parts.
- Start braiding by crossing the right section under the middle, then the left section under the new middle section (similar to a reverse French braid).
- Continue braiding while maintaining even tension until you reach the end of the hair.
- Repeating the Process:
- Move to the next section, create another small square, and repeat the braiding process.
- Ensure each section is uniform in size for consistency in the final look.
- Finishing Touches:
- Once all the hair is braided, dip the ends in hot water to seal the braids and prevent unraveling (be cautious and seek assistance if needed).
- Apply mousse or hair oil to add shine and reduce frizz.
- Style the edges with edge control gel for a polished finish.
After several attempts, I finally achieved a set of box braids that I was proud of. They were neat, evenly sized, and securely fastened. The sense of accomplishment was immense, mirroring the satisfaction I feel when a well-planned lesson engages my students and sparks their interest. This success reaffirmed the importance of perseverance and continuous improvement. My experience with box braiding has been a delightful journey of learning and growth. It has reminded me of the parallels between personal hobbies and professional endeavors, highlighting the universal value of patience, practice, and a passion for learning. Whether in braiding or teaching, the process of honing a skill requires dedication, resilience, and a willingness to learn from each attempt.
Now that I have been working on two and three-strand braids, next week I will be challenging myself with the four-strand braids. This new style will add complexity and require even greater attention to detail. During the week, I will watch more tutorials and continue searching for inspiration on Pinterest, adding to my “Braiding Project” board. The excitement of mastering a new technique keeps the journey engaging and motivates me to keep pushing my boundaries. As I continue to refine my braiding skills, I look forward to bringing the same enthusiasm and dedication to my teaching. The skills I develop through braiding—patience, attention to detail, and persistence—are directly transferable to my professional life. By constantly striving to improve and inspire those around me, I aim to create an environment where continuous learning and personal growth are celebrated.
In conclusion, the art of box braiding has not only enriched my personal life but also provided valuable insights into my professional practice. Embracing new challenges, whether in braiding or education, fuels my passion for learning and reminds me that with dedication and patience, any skill can be mastered.
4 thoughts on “My First Steps into the World of Box Braids”
Hi Nikol!
It’s amazing to hear how box braiding has made such a positive impact on both your personal and professional life. Your openness to new challenges, whether it’s in braiding or education, shows your passion for learning. Your journey reminds us all that with dedication and patience, we can become masters of any skill. Keep up the inspiring work!
Hey Nikol! I like how you connected your preparation for box braiding to the meticulous planning needed for a successful lesson plan. I had never heard of the term box braiding before reading this post. I will have to investigate this further. Thanks for continuing to share your learning journey.
Hi Nicol! You’re doing so good with your learning project. I I enjoy keeping up with your progress and seeing what new things you learn each week. Even if it takes you multiple attempts to get the desired outcome, the result at the end makes it totally worth it. Great job!!
Hi, Nikol!
I really admire the preparation and care you take when creating each project blog. Imagine trying to create box braids on your own head— :0
Thanks for sharing, great work!