Cutting a fringe into your hair involves specific techniques focused on the cutting action and desired length, as highlighted by key cutting principles. Following these guidelines helps shape the fringe effectively and maintain control during the process.
Essential Techniques for Cutting Your Fringe
When cutting a fringe, it's crucial to apply precise methods for holding the hair, determining the cut angle, shaping the line, and managing the final length.
Preparation and Initial Length
Before making any cuts, preparation ensures accuracy. Use a comb to hold your fringe in place when cutting. This provides stability and allows for a clean cut. A fundamental rule to follow is to always leave your fringe longer than your desired length. You can always cut more hair off, but you cannot add it back.
The Cutting Angle and Shape
The way you hold your scissors and the line you follow are critical for a natural-looking fringe.
- Vertical Cutting: Instead of holding scissors horizontally and cutting straight across, always cut vertically into the hair, not horizontally. This technique, often called 'point cutting', softens the line and makes the fringe look less blunt and more textured.
- Curved Shape: Fringes typically look best when they follow the natural shape of the face and hairline. To achieve this, cut in an arc, not a straight line. This slight curve helps the fringe blend more naturally at the sides.
Determining the Final Length
Length is subjective and depends on personal preference, but there is a guideline for ensuring the fringe isn't cut too short, especially when cutting it yourself. Never cut any shorter than bridge of your nose. This acts as a safety length, helping to prevent cutting the fringe too short initially.
Summary of Fringe Cutting Rules
Applying these rules during the cutting process is key to achieving a well-shaped fringe:
- Start by leaving the hair longer than the final desired length.
- Use a comb to hold the hair section securely.
- Cut the hair vertically (point cutting) rather than horizontally.
- Shape the fringe line by cutting in an arc or curve.
- Ensure the shortest point is no shorter than the bridge of your nose.
By adhering to these specific cutting techniques and length considerations, you can effectively shape a fringe into your hair.
