Three Great Ways to Do Double-strand Twists for Your Natural Hair

Double-strand (or double-stranded) twists are a wonderful style for natural hair. They're simple to do, can last for weeks, can be followed by a twist-out, and are easy on your hair - key if you're growing it out. Try these three methods for doing them. You only need an inch or more of hair to do it. You're sure to find one (or more!) that suits your style.

1. Wet Set - After washing and conditioning your hair, (I prefer just the conditioner wash) part or grasp small sections of your hair. The larger the section, the larger the twist. Experiment a bit to find the size you like. While the section is wet, divide it into two and wind one half around the other. Pull in the direction you want the twist to lay or hang. Your hair should look a bit like a rope. Repeat until all your hair is in twist. Keep a water or conditioner/water spray bottle nearby to wet each section as you go. These twists will generally be shorter and lie closer to your head. Wet Set twist love a spritz of water at any time.

2. Tension Wet Set - Follow the directions above as for the wet set, but when each twist is finished, attach a hair clip or bauble to the end to act as a weight. When you've twisted all of your hair, let it air dry or sit under a dryer. Once your hair is completely dry remove all the clips. These twists will be a little longer but will still be quite tight, like in the Wet Set. A spritz of water may change the look of these twists. Experiment to see how you like it.

3. Dry Set - After washing and conditioning your hair, plait it into chunky braids. Bantu knots will work well too. Don't worry about the parts unless you plan to wear your hair in the braided or knotted style for a few days before putting in your twists. After you hair is completely dry take out the braids or knots and pick out your afro. If you haven't done this before you may be shocked at how long your hair is. Then section your hair, divide the section in two, and twist one half of the section around the other, just as in the other two methods. Repeat for all of your hair. These twists will be looser and longer than twists done with the other two methods. You parts will be less obvious as well. A spritz of water will change the look of these twists. Experiment to see how you like it.

Each of these methods will produce a style that should last two or more weeks. Remember to cover your hair when you sleep. As you consider these three styling methods, remember the following:

1. The art is in the part. - Try parting your hair in regular or random patterns. Use fewer parts for larger twist more, for smaller ones. Remember to use diamond shaped or brick patterns if you want the parts to be less visible.

2. Follow up with a twist-out. - I have a friend whose favorite style is the twist-out. Just release your twist and use your fingers and perhaps a bit of oil to style. Your twist-out will last a few days if you keep it dry and cover your hair while you sleep. Resist the urge to play in your hair for the style to last even longer.

3. Style the twists again. - Depending on the length of your twists. You may be able to pull your twist and fasten them together, braid them, or cornrow them. Each will be a new style.

I hope you'll try one of these methods. Double-strand twists are truly lovely style. Enjoy

That which doesn't kill you makes for better stories. - Karama Neal