Locking dreads is an intricate course of that requires endurance, ability, and a little bit of elbow grease. Nevertheless, as soon as you have mastered the method, you’ll create stunning, long-lasting dreadlocks you could be pleased with. On this complete information, we’ll cowl all the things you must learn about locking dreads, from choosing the proper technique to caring on your new locks. So whether or not you are a seasoned professional or an entire newbie, learn on to study all the things you must learn about locking dreads.
There are two foremost strategies for locking dreads: the crochet technique and the palm rolling technique. The crochet technique is extra standard, because it’s quicker and simpler to study. Nevertheless, the palm rolling technique can produce extra uniform dreads. Whichever technique you select, it is vital 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 have completed locking your dreads, it is vital to take care of them correctly to maintain them wholesome and searching their greatest. Dreadlocks require common washing and conditioning, and they need to be retwisted each 4-6 weeks. To scrub your dreads, use a light shampoo and conditioner designed for dreadlocks. Be sure you rinse your dreads completely and allow them to air dry fully. To retwist your dreads, merely twist them round your finger till they’re tight. You can even 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 Start of Dreads
The historical past of dreadlocks may be traced again to historical civilizations in Africa, Asia, and Europe. In historical Egypt, dreadlocks have been a logo of energy and divinity. Pharaohs and different high-ranking officers usually wore their hair in dreadlocks, and the model was additionally standard among the many basic inhabitants. In historical India, dreadlocks have been related to asceticism and spirituality, and so they have been usually worn by yogis and different non secular figures. In Europe, dreadlocks have been first adopted by the Vikings, who believed that they gave them power and braveness in battle. This model of hair is believed to have been originated in historical cultures 1000’s of years in the past.
Dreadlocks are shaped when hair is allowed to mat and tangle collectively naturally. This may be accomplished by washing the hair sometimes, combing it solely sometimes, and avoiding the usage of harsh chemical compounds and styling merchandise. Dreadlocks may also be created utilizing a wide range of strategies, corresponding 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 lots of various kinds of dreadlocks, together with:
| Sort | Description |
|---|---|
| Freeform dreads | Shaped 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 tug hair via the bottom of a dread. This helps to create a decent, safe lock. Latch hooks are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, so it is very important select one that’s the proper measurement on your dreads. The hook needs to be sufficiently small to suit simply via the bottom of the dread, however giant sufficient to supply a very good 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 via the dread, catching the hair as you go. Upon getting pulled the hook via the dread, launch the hair and pull the hook again out. Repeat this course of till the dread is locked.
Suggestions
* To make the method simpler, it’s useful to dampen the dread earlier than you begin locking it.
* In case you are having hassle pulling the hair via the dread, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a crochet hook or a knitting needle.
* Watch out to not pull too tightly if you end up 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 in a wide range of sizes, so it is very important select one that’s the proper measurement on your dreads. The hook needs to be sufficiently small to suit simply into the dread, however giant sufficient to supply a very good 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 via the dread. Repeat this course of till you may have created a loop of hair. To safe the loop, insert the hook again into the dread and pull the hair via the loop.
Suggestions
* To make the method simpler, it’s useful to dampen the dread earlier than you begin locking it.
* In case you are having hassle pulling the hair via the dread, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a latch hook or a knitting needle.
* Watch out to not pull too tightly if you end up locking a dread, as this will injury the hair.
| Device | Description | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Latch Hook | Small, hook-shaped software used to tug hair via 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
Totally cleanse your hair with a clarifying shampoo to take away any product buildup, grime, 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 manage the scale and form of the dreadlocks.
3. Twist and Lock
That is probably 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 basis space.
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Twist the part of hair tightly between your fingers, rolling it in a clockwise course.
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Proceed twisting and rolling the part till it varieties a decent, cylindrical form. Be 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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Permit the dreadlocks to dry fully earlier than manipulating them additional.
Tip: You’ll be able to improve the locking course of by utilizing pure locking strategies, corresponding to palm rolling or crocheting. Nevertheless, it is beneficial to seek the advice of with an expert loctician for steering and to keep away from damaging your hair.
The Backcombing Technique
The backcombing technique is a straightforward and efficient option to lock dreads. It includes 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 have a fine-toothed comb and a few endurance.
1. Begin by washing and conditioning your hair. This can assist to take away any grime or product buildup that might forestall the dreads from locking.
2. Divide your hair into small sections. The dimensions of the sections will depend upon the thickness of your hair. In case your hair is thick, you could 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 basis to the tip. Be sure you 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 the complete part of hair is tangled and matted.
| Instruments Required |
|---|
| High-quality-toothed comb |
| Go away-in conditioner or hair wax (non-compulsory) |
The Crochet Technique
The crochet technique is a well-liked method for locking dreadlocks. It includes 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 via: Pull the hair via 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 complete circumference of the dread, working your method 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 Approach
The Twist and Rip technique is a straightforward but efficient option to lock your dreads. It includes twisting two strands of hair collectively after which ripping them aside to create a knot. Repeat this course of till the complete 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 the complete part of hair is locked.
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**Suggestions for Twist and Rip Approach:**
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Use a small tooth comb: A fine-toothed comb will make it easier to to separate the hair strands extra simply.
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Do not over-twist the strands: In case you twist the strands too tightly, they are going to be tough to tug aside and create a knot.
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Rip the strands aside gently: In case you rip the strands aside too forcefully, you would break the hair.
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Be affected person: It might take a number of makes an attempt to get the hold of the Twist and Rip method.
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Lock often: It is very important lock your dreads often 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 made out of pure components corresponding 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 | Substances | 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, corresponding to coconut oil or aloe vera | Cleanses dreadlocks with out stripping them of their pure oils |
| Dreadlock Conditioner | Pure moisturizers, corresponding to shea butter or coconut oil | Helps to maintain dreadlocks hydrated, comfortable, and glossy |
Sustaining Dreads
8. Retwisting and Palm Rolling
Retwisting and palm rolling are important strategies for sustaining dreadlocks. Retwisting includes 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 method that can be utilized to form and clean 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 provides the dreads a extra uniform look.
The frequency of retwisting and palm rolling will range relying on the kind of hair and the specified look. Nevertheless, it’s usually beneficial to retwist the roots each 2-4 weeks and palm roll the dreads each 1-2 weeks. If the dreads aren’t retwisted often, they could turn into free and frizzy. If they aren’t palm rolled often, they could turn into lumpy and uneven.
Here’s a desk summarizing the advantages of retwisting and palm rolling:
| Approach | 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 on account of extreme use of artificial merchandise or pure oils. To deal with this:
- Use clarifying shampoos to take away product residue.
- Keep away from over-conditioning, as this will contribute to waxiness.
- Rinse hair completely after washing to forestall product accumulation.
Frizzy Roots
New progress could 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 clean them down.
- Usually palm roll your roots to encourage locking and scale back frizz.
Unfastened New Progress
New progress might not lock simply, leading to free strands. To deal with this:
- Use a crochet hook or dreadlock hook to interlock the free hair into the prevailing dreadlocks.
- Palm roll the brand new progress often to encourage locking.
- Apply a small quantity of hairspray to the brand new progress to carry it in place whereas it locks.
Dandruff
Dreadlocks can entice grime and particles, contributing to dandruff. To stop 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 often utilizing the proper dreadlock care merchandise. |
Shrinkage
Dreadlocks are inclined to shrink as they mature. To handle this:
- Keep away from utilizing sizzling water when washing, as it will possibly shrink dreadlocks extra.
- Use a blow dryer on a low warmth setting to dry dreadlocks if needed.
- Gently stretch dreadlocks whereas they’re damp utilizing a hair decide or dreadlock hook.
Styling and Adornment
As soon as dreadlocks are mature, there are a mess of the way to model 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 probabilities are infinite, and it is simple to search out inspiration by shopping on-line boards and social media.
Dreadlock Wraps
Dreadlock wraps are an effective way to maintain your dreads out of your face or just add a pop of colour or character to your look. Wraps may be made out of a wide range of supplies, corresponding to cloth, yarn, or leather-based. They are often easy or elaborate, relying in your choice.
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 includes utilizing a particular software to hook collectively particular person dreadlocks. Crocheting includes utilizing a crochet hook to tug loops of hair via the dreadlock.
Beads and Jewellery
Beads and jewellery are a well-liked option to adorn dreadlocks. Beads may be made out of a wide range 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 standard option to model dreadlocks. Yarn may be wrapped round dreadlocks in a wide range of methods, corresponding to braids, twists, or knots. Yarn accents can add a pop of colour or texture to your dreadlocks.
Dreadlock Extensions
Dreadlock extensions are an effective way so as to add size or quantity to your dreadlocks. Extensions may be made out 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 sort of haircut wherein the hair is matted and twisted into lengthy, rope-like strands. There are lots of 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 have the next:
- A crochet hook
- A pair of scissors
- A comb
- A sprig bottle crammed with water
Upon getting gathered your supplies, you’ll be able to start the method of locking your dreads. First, you will have to part your hair into small squares. The dimensions of the squares will decide the scale of your dreadlocks. Upon getting sectioned your hair, you will have to begin crocheting. To crochet your dreads, you will have to insert the hook into the middle of a piece of hair and pull it via. You’ll then must wrap the hair across the hook and pull it again via the part. You will have to repeat this course of till the part of hair is totally matted and twisted. Upon getting crocheted all your sections, you will have to trim any free ends. You’ll be able to then model 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 is dependent upon the strategy you employ and the kind of hair you may have. Nevertheless, it usually takes a number of months to a yr for dreads to totally lock.
What’s one of the simplest ways to keep up dreadlocks?
One of the simplest ways to keep up dreadlocks is to scrub them often with a residue-free shampoo and to keep away from utilizing any harsh chemical compounds or merchandise. You must also often 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 proper strategies to keep away from damaging your hair.
