Introduction: Rope Twist Hairstyle

By Becky Stern
About: Making and sharing are my two biggest passions! In total I've published hundreds of tutorials about everything from microcontrollers to knitting. I'm a New York City motorcyclist and unrepentant dog mom. My wo…

Named for it's appearance and technique, the rope braid is not actually a braid; it's a series of twists. But don't let that exclude it from your repertoire! It's just as fun and practical as any of the updos in this class, and very easy to achieve. In this lesson you'll master the rope twist hairstyle, sometimes called the "rope braid."

This Instructable is part of my beginner braids series. If you like this lesson, try the rest!

Supplies

To get started learning to braid, you really just need some hair, a mirror, and dexterity in both hands. Everything else here just enhances your results!

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Step 1: Simple Ponytail

To begin, use a strong elastic to tie all your hair in a basic ponytail close to the crown of your head (tilting your head back or way forward may help). Gently brush out the ponytail to remove any tangles.

Optionally cover the elastic by separating a small section from the ponytail and wrapping it around the elastic. Secure the tail with a bobby pin and re-incorporate any remaining hair into the ponytail.

Step 2: Divide and Twist

Split the ponytail into two equal sections, and twist one of the sections clockwise for the full length.

Secure the twist momentarily by clipping or biting it.

Step 3: Twist Other Section

Twist the remaining half of the ponytail along its length, also clockwise.

Position one twist in each hand.

Step 4: Intertwine & Wear It!

Rotate the twists around each other counterclockwise along the length of your hair, then secure the ends together with a small elastic.

That's it! Easy, right?

Rope braids make adorable high pigtails, and you can dress one up by loosely twisting one over your shoulder without the elastic at the top, similar to the fishtail braid hairstyle.

How'd yours turn out?

This Instructable is part of my beginner braids series. If you like this lesson, try the rest!