5 Braiding Styles Every Beginner Should Master

Introduction

Every great braider starts somewhere, and the magic truly begins when you learn the basics. At BXJ Braid Salon + Academy, we believe that once you understand a few core braiding techniques, you can create any style with confidence, creativity, and ease.

Whether you’re learning to braid your own hair, starting your beauty career, or preparing to take on your first client, these five styles will give you the foundation you need to build your skills and grow your passion for braiding.

1. The Three-Strand Braid

The three-strand braid is the heartbeat of every braiding technique. It teaches you control, tension, and rhythm. The three essentials for flawless braids. Once you master this braid, you’ll notice how much easier every other style becomes.

Pro Tip: Keep even tension in both hands as you braid. This helps you avoid uneven sections and gives your braid a clean, polished finish.

Perfect Practice: Try this technique on a mannequin head or a friend before moving on to extensions.

2. Cornrows

Cornrows are classic, cultural, and incredibly versatile. You can wear them straight back, in intricate designs, or as a foundation for sew-ins and crochet styles. When you can braid neat, even cornrows, your confidence as a braider instantly rises.

Why It Matters: Learning to part cleanly and braid with consistent grip builds precision and strengthens your hands.

Common Mistake: Braiding too tightly can cause tension, breakage, and scalp irritation. Gentle hands make happy clients.

3. Feed-In Braids

Feed-in braids, often called invisible braids, use added hair gradually to create a seamless, natural look. This technique is one of the most requested styles in salons today and a must-learn for every professional braider.

Pro Tip: Use pre-stretched braiding hair and add small-large pieces as you go (based on natural hair density). This keeps the braid lightweight, smooth, and natural-looking.

Workshop Match: Our Beginner Braiding Workshop is the perfect place to practice feed-in techniques with live, hands-on guidance from our BXJ instructors.

4. Knotless Box Braids

Knotless braids are the modern twist on traditional box braids. They’re lightweight, scalp-friendly, and perfect for all hair types. These braids are all about precision, patience, and clean parting—skills that separate a good braider from a great one.

Why Clients Love Them: They offer natural movement, less tension, and easier maintenance.

Skill Builder: Once you’ve nailed the knotless technique, you’ll be ready to take on jumbo, small, or micro versions with ease.

5. Twist Braids

Twists bring creativity to the table. From two-strand twists to Senegalese, Marley, or Passion Twists, this technique blends braiding and twisting motions to create endless styles. Twists are beginner-friendly, easy to maintain, and help you develop better tension control with each style you create.

Stylist Tip: Use a light styling foam at the end to add shine and prevent unraveling.

At-Home Tip: Moisturize your scalp every few days to keep your twists fresh and your hair healthy.

Ready to Learn Beginner Friendly Braid Styles Hands-On?

The best way to master these techniques is through guided practice with professionals who’ve been where you are. Join our BXJ Beginner Braiding Workshop this month and gain the skills, confidence, and certification you need to start braiding like a pro.

📘 Download your free eBook: The Ultimate Guide to Hair Braiding for Beginners

🎟️ Reserve your seat: Register for the Workshop →

📍 BXJ Braid Salon + Academy | 16939 12 Mile Rd, Roseville, MI 48066

💬 Let’s Talk!

Which braid are you most excited to learn first? Share your answer in the comments below and tag us on Instagram @bxjbraidstudio when you post your next braid style. We just might feature you on our blog!