Locking dreads is an intricate course of that requires persistence, ability, and a little bit of elbow grease. Nevertheless, as soon as you’ve got mastered the approach, you can create lovely, long-lasting dreadlocks that you could be happy with. On this complete information, we’ll cowl every part you must learn about locking dreads, from selecting the best technique to caring to your new locks. So whether or not you are a seasoned professional or a whole newbie, learn on to be taught every part you must learn about locking dreads.
There are two principal strategies for locking dreads: the crochet technique and the palm rolling technique. The crochet technique is extra widespread, because it’s quicker and simpler to be taught. Nevertheless, the palm rolling technique can produce extra uniform dreads. Whichever technique you select, it is necessary to be affected person and take your time. Locking dreads can take a number of hours and even days, relying on the size and thickness of your hair.
As soon as you’ve got completed locking your dreads, it is necessary to take care of them correctly to maintain them wholesome and looking out their finest. Dreadlocks require common washing and conditioning, and they need to be retwisted each 4-6 weeks. To clean your dreads, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for dreadlocks. You’ll want to rinse your dreads totally and allow them to air dry fully. To retwist your dreads, merely twist them round your finger till they’re tight. You too can use a crochet hook that can assist you retwist your dreads. With correct care, your dreadlocks will final for a few years to return.
The Artwork of Dreads
The Delivery of Dreads
The historical past of dreadlocks may be traced again to historic civilizations in Africa, Asia, and Europe. In historic Egypt, dreadlocks had been an emblem of energy and divinity. Pharaohs and different high-ranking officers usually wore their hair in dreadlocks, and the type was additionally widespread among the many basic inhabitants. In historic India, dreadlocks had been related to asceticism and spirituality, they usually had been usually worn by yogis and different non secular figures. In Europe, dreadlocks had been first adopted by the Vikings, who believed that they gave them energy and braveness in battle. This type of hair is believed to have been originated in historic cultures hundreds of years in the past.
Dreadlocks are shaped when hair is allowed to mat and tangle collectively naturally. This may be completed by washing the hair sometimes, combing it solely often, and avoiding the usage of harsh chemical substances and styling merchandise. Dreadlocks can be created utilizing quite a lot of strategies, akin to backcombing, twisting, or braiding. As soon as dreadlocks are shaped, they are often maintained by periodically separating the roots and re-twisting the hair.
There are numerous several types of dreadlocks, together with:
| Sort | Description |
|---|---|
| Freeform dreads | Fashioned naturally with none manipulation |
| Conventional dreads | Created utilizing a backcombing or twisting technique |
| Crochet dreads | Created utilizing a crochet hook to lock the hair |
| Interlocked dreads | Created by interlocking two strands of hair collectively |
Important Instruments for Locking
Latch Hook
A latch hook is a small, hook-shaped software that’s used to drag hair by way of the bottom of a dread. This helps to create a decent, safe lock. Latch hooks are available quite a lot of shapes and sizes, so it is very important select one that’s the proper measurement to your dreads. The hook needs to be sufficiently small to suit simply by way of the bottom of the dread, however giant sufficient to offer an excellent grip.
Utilizing a Latch Hook
To make use of a latch hook, first insert the hook into the bottom of the dread. Then, pull the hook by way of the dread, catching the hair as you go. After getting pulled the hook by way of the dread, launch the hair and pull the hook again out. Repeat this course of till the dread is locked.
Ideas
* To make the method simpler, it’s useful to dampen the dread earlier than you begin locking it.
* If you’re having hassle pulling the hair by way of the dread, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a crochet hook or a knitting needle.
* Watch out to not pull too tightly when you’re locking a dread, as this will injury the hair.
Crochet Hook
A crochet hook is a small, hook-shaped software that’s used to create loops of hair. These loops can be utilized to lock dreads or to create dreadlock extensions. Crochet hooks are available quite a lot of sizes, so it is very important select one that’s the proper measurement to your dreads. The hook needs to be sufficiently small to suit simply into the dread, however giant sufficient to offer an excellent grip.
Utilizing a Crochet Hook
To make use of a crochet hook, first insert the hook into the dread. Then, wrap the hair across the hook and pull it by way of the dread. Repeat this course of till you’ve gotten created a loop of hair. To safe the loop, insert the hook again into the dread and pull the hair by way of the loop.
Ideas
* To make the method simpler, it’s useful to dampen the dread earlier than you begin locking it.
* If you’re having hassle pulling the hair by way of the dread, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a latch hook or a knitting needle.
* Watch out to not pull too tightly when you’re locking a dread, as this will injury the hair.
| Software | Description | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Latch Hook | Small, hook-shaped software used to drag hair by way of the bottom of a dread | Locking dreads |
| Crochet Hook | Small, hook-shaped software used to create loops of hair | Locking dreads or creating dreadlock extensions |
Making ready Hair for Dreadlocks
Earlier than embarking in your dreadlock journey, it is essential to organize your hair to make sure optimum outcomes and decrease potential injury. Listed below are the important thing steps concerned:
1. Cleanse and Make clear
Completely cleanse your hair with a clarifying shampoo to take away any product buildup, filth, or oils that might hinder dreadlock formation. Keep away from utilizing conditioners, as they’ll coat the hair and stop it from locking collectively.
2. Backcomb and Part
Gently backcomb the hair on the root to create texture and encourage matting. Divide the hair into small sections utilizing hair ties or clips to regulate the dimensions and form of the dreadlocks.
3. Twist and Lock
That is essentially the most essential step in dreadlock formation. Listed below are the detailed directions:
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Take a small part of hair and apply a small quantity of dreadlock wax or gel to the foundation space.
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Twist the part of hair tightly between your fingers, rolling it in a clockwise route.
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Proceed twisting and rolling the part till it varieties a decent, cylindrical form. Make sure that the dreadlock is firmly secured and can’t unravel.
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Repeat the method for every part of hair, creating dreadlocks of uniform measurement and form.
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Enable the dreadlocks to dry fully earlier than manipulating them additional.
Tip: You possibly can improve the locking course of by utilizing pure locking strategies, akin to palm rolling or crocheting. Nevertheless, it is beneficial to seek the advice of with an expert loctician for steerage and to keep away from damaging your hair.
The Backcombing Technique
The backcombing technique is an easy and efficient strategy to lock dreads. It entails repeatedly combing the hair backwards till it begins to tangle and mat. This technique can be utilized on all hair varieties, however it’s particularly efficient for hair that’s already curly or coarse. To backcomb your dreads, you will want a fine-toothed comb and a few persistence.
1. Begin by washing and conditioning your hair. This may assist to take away any filth or product buildup that might forestall the dreads from locking.
2. Divide your hair into small sections. The scale of the sections will rely upon the thickness of your hair. In case your hair is thick, chances are you’ll wish to divide it into smaller sections. In case your hair is skinny, you could possibly divide it into bigger sections.
3. Take a small part of hair and comb it backwards from the foundation to the tip. You’ll want to comb with even strokes and keep away from pulling on the hair.
4. When you attain the tip of the hair, gently pull the comb again out. Don’t brush the hair again down. Repeat this course of till your entire part of hair is tangled and matted.
| Instruments Required |
|---|
| Superb-toothed comb |
| Go away-in conditioner or hair wax (non-obligatory) |
The Crochet Technique
The crochet technique is a well-liked approach for locking dreadlocks. It entails utilizing a crochet hook to create tiny loops across the hair, which helps to carry the dreads collectively and stop them from frizzing.
Supplies:
| Merchandise | Description |
|---|---|
| Crochet hook | A fine-gauge crochet hook, usually measurement 0.6mm or 0.8mm |
| Rubber bands | To part off the hair and create the bottom loops |
Steps:
1. Part the hair: Divide the hair into small sections, about 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter.
2. Create the bottom loop: Wrap a rubber band across the base of 1 part of hair and pull it tight.
3. Insert the hook: Insert the crochet hook into the middle of the loop and hook the hair from the underside.
4. Pull the hair by way of: Pull the hair by way of the loop and over the hook, creating a brand new loop.
5. Safe the loop: Tighten the brand new loop across the dread by pulling it down over the shaft. Repeat steps 3-5 across the total circumference of the dread, working your manner down the shaft in a spiral sample.
6. Take away the rubber band: As soon as the dread is securely locked, take away the rubber band.
7. Repeat for remaining sections: Repeat the method for the remaining sections of hair till all dreads are locked.
Twist and Rip Method
The Twist and Rip technique is an easy but efficient strategy to lock your dreads. It entails twisting two strands of hair collectively after which ripping them aside to create a knot. Repeat this course of till your entire dread is locked.
Supplies You may Want:
- Small tooth comb
- Water spray bottle
- Locking gel or wax
Step-by-Step Directions:
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Moist your hair and apply a small quantity of locking gel or wax.
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Separate a small part of hair and divide it into two equal strands.
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Twist the 2 strands collectively clockwise.
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Pull the twisted strands aside to create a knot.
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Repeat steps 3 and 4 till your entire part of hair is locked.
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**Ideas for Twist and Rip Method:**
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Use a small tooth comb: A fine-toothed comb will allow you to to separate the hair strands extra simply.
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Do not over-twist the strands: In the event you twist the strands too tightly, they are going to be troublesome to drag aside and create a knot.
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Rip the strands aside gently: In the event you rip the strands aside too forcefully, you can break the hair.
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Be affected person: It could take a number of makes an attempt to get the grasp of the Twist and Rip approach.
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Lock usually: It is very important lock your dreads usually to forestall them from unraveling.
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Keep away from washing your hair too usually: Washing your hair too usually can take away the pure oils that assist to lock your dreads.
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Palm Rolling
Palm rolling is a method used to lock dreadlocks by rubbing them between the palms of your arms. Do that in a round movement and apply strain to assist the hair mat and tangle.
To palm roll your dreadlocks:
- Dampen your dreadlocks with water or a locking spray.
- Separate a small part of dreadlocks.
- Place the part between your palms and start rolling in a round movement.
- Apply gentle to medium strain to assist the hair mat and tangle.
- Proceed rolling for a number of minutes.
- Repeat the method till all sections of your dreadlocks have been palm rolled.
Dread Wax
Dread wax is a styling product used to assist lock and outline dreadlocks. It’s comprised of pure components akin to beeswax and candelilla wax, and it helps to carry the hairs collectively and stop them from unraveling.
To make use of dread wax:
- Begin with clear dreadlocks.
- Rub a small quantity of dread wax between your palms to heat it up.
- Apply the wax to the roots of your dreadlocks.
- Use your fingers to work the wax into the hair.
- Twist or braid your dreadlocks to assist the wax set.
- Go away the wax in your dreadlocks for a number of hours or in a single day.
- Wash your dreadlocks with heat water and shampoo to take away the wax.
| Product | Components | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Dreadlock Wax | Beeswax, candelilla wax, important oils | Helps to carry dreadlocks in place, defines them, and prevents unraveling |
| Locking Spray | Water, witch hazel, important oils | Helps to moisten dreadlocks, making them simpler to palm roll or crochet |
| Dreadlock Shampoo | Pure cleansers, akin to coconut oil or aloe vera | Cleanses dreadlocks with out stripping them of their pure oils |
| Dreadlock Conditioner | Pure moisturizers, akin to shea butter or coconut oil | Helps to maintain dreadlocks hydrated, gentle, and glossy |
Sustaining Dreads
8. Retwisting and Palm Rolling
Retwisting and palm rolling are important strategies for sustaining dreadlocks. Retwisting entails utilizing a crochet hook or your fingers to tighten the roots of the dreads. This helps to forestall them from changing into free or unraveling. Palm rolling is a extra mild approach that can be utilized to form and easy the dreads. To palm roll, merely use your palms to rub the dreads in a round movement. This helps to distribute the pure oils within the hair and offers the dreads a extra uniform look.
The frequency of retwisting and palm rolling will fluctuate relying on the kind of hair and the specified look. Nevertheless, it’s typically beneficial to retwist the roots each 2-4 weeks and palm roll the dreads each 1-2 weeks. If the dreads are usually not retwisted usually, they could turn out to be free and frizzy. If they don’t seem to be palm rolled usually, they could turn out to be lumpy and uneven.
Here’s a desk summarizing the advantages of retwisting and palm rolling:
| Method | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Retwisting | Prevents dreads from changing into free or unraveling |
| Palm rolling | Shapes and smooths dreads Distributes pure oils |
Troubleshooting Dreadlocks
Waxiness and Construct-Up
Wax buildup can happen as a consequence of extreme use of artificial merchandise or pure oils. To handle this:
- Use clarifying shampoos to take away product residue.
- Keep away from over-conditioning, as this will contribute to waxiness.
- Rinse hair totally after washing to forestall product accumulation.
Frizzy Roots
New development may cause frizz across the roots. To handle this:
- Use root management merchandise particularly designed for dreadlocks.
- Apply a small quantity of hair gel or pomade to the roots to easy them down.
- Frequently palm roll your roots to encourage locking and cut back frizz.
Free New Progress
New development might not lock simply, leading to free strands. To handle this:
- Use a crochet hook or dreadlock hook to interlock the free hair into the prevailing dreadlocks.
- Palm roll the brand new development usually to encourage locking.
- Apply a small quantity of hairspray to the brand new development to carry it in place whereas it locks.
Dandruff
Dreadlocks can lure filth and particles, contributing to dandruff. To forestall and handle this:
| Trigger | Answer |
|---|---|
| Dry scalp | Use a moisturizing shampoo and deep conditioner. |
| Product buildup | Use clarifying shampoos and keep away from extreme styling merchandise. |
| Poor hygiene | Wash dreadlocks usually utilizing the right dreadlock care merchandise. |
Shrinkage
Dreadlocks are inclined to shrink as they mature. To handle this:
- Keep away from utilizing scorching water when washing, as it could possibly shrink dreadlocks extra.
- Use a blow dryer on a low warmth setting to dry dreadlocks if mandatory.
- Gently stretch dreadlocks whereas they’re damp utilizing a hair choose or dreadlock hook.
Styling and Adornment
As soon as dreadlocks are mature, there are a mess of how to type and adorn them. Dreadlocks may be wrapped up into buns or up-dos, interwoven with yarn or thread, and even adorned with beads, jewellery, or different equipment. The chances are infinite, and it is simple to search out inspiration by looking on-line boards and social media.
Dreadlock Wraps
Dreadlock wraps are a good way to maintain your dreads out of your face or just add a pop of coloration or persona to your look. Wraps may be comprised of quite a lot of supplies, akin to material, yarn, or leather-based. They are often easy or elaborate, relying in your desire.
Interlocking and Crocheting
Interlocking and crocheting are two strategies that can be utilized to tighten up dreadlocks and provides them a extra polished look. Interlocking entails utilizing a particular software to hook collectively particular person dreadlocks. Crocheting entails utilizing a crochet hook to drag loops of hair by way of the dreadlock.
Beads and Jewellery
Beads and jewellery are a preferred strategy to adorn dreadlocks. Beads may be comprised of quite a lot of supplies, together with wooden, steel, glass, and plastic. They are often strung onto dreadlocks individually or in teams.
Yarn Accents
Yarn accents are one other widespread strategy to type dreadlocks. Yarn may be wrapped round dreadlocks in quite a lot of methods, akin to braids, twists, or knots. Yarn accents can add a pop of coloration or texture to your dreadlocks.
Dreadlock Extensions
Dreadlock extensions are a good way so as to add size or quantity to your dreadlocks. Extensions may be comprised of human hair, artificial hair, and even dread-like rope.
Dreadlocks Extensions Desk
| Materials | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Human Hair | Pure look, really feel, and motion |
| Artificial Hair | Cheaper, extra sturdy |
| Dread-Like Rope | Most inexpensive, best to put in |
How To Lock Dreads
Locking dreads is a course of of making and sustaining dreadlocks, that are a kind of haircut by which the hair is matted and twisted into lengthy, rope-like strands. There are numerous completely different strategies for locking dreads, however the most typical technique is to make use of a crochet hook. To lock dreads utilizing a crochet hook, you will want the next:
- A crochet hook
- A pair of scissors
- A comb
- A twig bottle full of water
After getting gathered your supplies, you’ll be able to start the method of locking your dreads. First, you will want to part your hair into small squares. The scale of the squares will decide the dimensions of your dreadlocks. After getting sectioned your hair, you will want to start out crocheting. To crochet your dreads, you will want to insert the hook into the middle of a piece of hair and pull it by way of. You’ll then must wrap the hair across the hook and pull it again by way of the part. You will have to repeat this course of till the part of hair is totally matted and twisted. After getting crocheted your whole sections, you will want to trim any free ends. You possibly can then type your dreadlocks as desired.
Individuals Additionally Ask About How To Lock Dreads
How lengthy does it take to lock dreads?
The time it takes to lock dreads will depend on the tactic you utilize and the kind of hair you’ve gotten. Nevertheless, it usually takes a number of months to a yr for dreads to completely lock.
What’s the easiest way to take care of dreadlocks?
The easiest way to take care of dreadlocks is to clean them usually with a residue-free shampoo and to keep away from utilizing any harsh chemical substances or merchandise. You must also usually palm roll your dreads to assist them keep locked.
Can I lock my dreads myself?
Sure, it’s doable to lock your dreads your self. Nevertheless, it is very important do your analysis and to make use of the right strategies to keep away from damaging your hair.
