Learning how to do a crossover Dutch braid involves mastering the underhand braiding technique combined with a specific method for adding hair sections, often directed across the head.
A crossover Dutch braid utilizes the fundamental Dutch braiding technique, where hair strands are crossed under the middle strand instead of over, creating a braid that stands out from the head. The "crossover" aspect can refer to the path the braid takes across the head or, as suggested by the reference, a specific method for picking up and adding hair sections.
Mastering the Crossover Dutch Braid
To create this style, you start like a standard Dutch braid, but pay close attention to how you incorporate new hair.
Basic Dutch Braid Steps:
- Start with a section of hair at the crown or hairline and divide it into three equal strands.
- Cross the right strand under the middle strand. The right strand is now the new middle strand.
- Cross the left strand under the new middle strand. The left strand is now the new middle strand.
- Repeat this process, adding a small section of loose hair to the right strand before crossing it under, and adding a small section of loose hair to the left strand before crossing it under.
The Crossover Element
Based on the provided reference, the "crossover" aspect specifically highlights the technique and direction used when adding sections of hair:
- As you braid, you add sections by directing them in a particular way.
- The reference notes a technique where you "want it to go back towards the center over to that part line."
- When adding these sections, you focus on "adding in these few sections now keeping it nice and tight. Getting it to the middle."
This suggests that the loose hair being added isn't just picked up from directly beside the braid but might be gathered from further away or brought across the head towards the center and the part line before being integrated into the active strand using the standard underhand method.
Key Tips for a Crossover Dutch Braid
- Sectioning: Take clean, even sections of hair to add into your braid. This ensures a smooth, consistent look.
- Direction: Pay close attention to the direction you bring the hair from before adding it. The reference emphasizes bringing hair "back towards the center over to that part line."
- Tension: Keep the braid "nice and tight" as you add sections. Consistent tension is crucial for a neat, defined braid.
- Practice: Dutch braiding, especially with specific sectioning techniques, takes practice. Start slow and focus on your hand movements.
Why Choose a Crossover Dutch Braid?
This braiding style offers a unique twist on a classic, creating intricate patterns that stand out. It's versatile for various hair lengths and occasions, from casual looks to more formal events.
| Key Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Dutch Braiding | Crossing hair strands under the middle strand to create a braid that sits on top of the head. |
| Crossover Add-in | Bringing hair sections from a specific direction (e.g., "back towards the center over to that part line") before adding them tightly into the active braid strand. |
By focusing on both the underhand technique and the specific method of adding sections from a 'crossover' direction, you can achieve this distinctive braided style.
