Turning a simple or complex braid into a stylish bun is a popular and effective way to secure your hair. The process involves completing your braid, securing its end, and then coiling it into a neat or messy bun depending on your desired look.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Braid Bun
Putting a braid into a bun is straightforward once you have the braid itself ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
1. Complete Your Braid
First, decide on the type of braid you want to use as the base for your bun. This could be:
- A single braid down the back (a simple three-strand braid, French braid, or Dutch braid).
- Two braids (like Dutch braids or French braids) for space buns.
- A braid that goes around the head (like a crown braid).
Braid your hair down to the end, incorporating all sections of hair as you go, until the braid reaches the desired point for your bun (e.g., the nape of your neck for a low bun, or higher up for a top knot).
2. Secure the Braid's End
Once your braid is finished and all hair has been incorporated, you need to secure the very end of the braid. This step is crucial for preventing the braid from unraveling as you form the bun.
As demonstrated in resources like Missy Sue's video on Double Dutch Braid Mini Buns, once the braid reaches the nape of your neck (or your desired point) and all the hair is brought into the braid, you secure the end. Grab a clear elastic band and wrap it over the end of the braid. This creates a finished tail that is easy to handle when coiling the bun.
3. Coil the Braid into a Bun
With the end of your braid secured, begin coiling the entire braid around the base where the braid originates on your head.
- For a single braid: Wrap the secured braid around the point where the braid started, typically at the base of your neck or crown, in a circular motion.
- For two braids (mini buns): Take one secured braid and coil it around itself at the position you want the mini bun. Repeat with the second braid.
Keep the coil relatively flat against your head for a neater look, or pull gently as you coil for a slightly messier, fuller bun.
4. Secure the Bun
Once the braid is fully coiled into a bun shape, you need to secure it firmly against your head.
- Use bobby pins inserted around the edges of the bun, pushing them into the base of the braid and against your scalp to anchor it.
- Alternatively, you can use another hair tie wrapped around the entire coiled bun for extra security, especially for thicker hair or active days.
- Tuck the secured end of the braid (with the elastic band) neatly into the bun and secure it with a bobby pin.
Adjust the bun as needed to achieve the desired shape and tightness. Add hairspray for extra hold if necessary.
By following these steps, you can effectively transform any finished braid into a stable and stylish bun.
