How to Make a 4-Strand Braid: A Simple Craft Basic

Updated at: 23/03/2025

Braiding hair, whether your own or that of a friend or family member, is a versatile and practical skill. From simple styles for everyday wear to intricate designs for special occasions, mastering basic braiding techniques opens a world of creative possibilities. A foundational skill within this craft is the four-strand braid, a seemingly complex pattern that's actually surprisingly easy to learn. This seemingly advanced braid adds a touch of sophistication to any hairstyle and is a great stepping stone to more intricate braiding styles.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating a beautiful and even four-strand braid, step by step. Whether you're a complete beginner or simply looking to refine your braiding technique, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to master this classic style. Let's get started and unlock the secrets to flawlessly braiding four strands of hair.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 4 strands of material (yarn, string, etc.)
  • Pins (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always start with evenly sized strands. Uneven strands will result in a lopsided braid.
  • Keep a gentle but firm grip on the strands to avoid pulling your hair too tightly. This prevents discomfort and potential scalp irritation.
  • If braiding someone else's hair, be mindful of their comfort level and stop if they express any discomfort.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strands

    • Gather your four strands and lay them neatly side-by-side. Secure them with pins or hold them taut.
    Gather your four strands and lay them neatly side-by-side. Secure them with pins or hold them taut.
    Prepare the Strands

  2. First Braid Pattern

    • Take your rightmost strand and place it over the strand next to it.
    • Bring the two strands together.
    • Take your leftmost strand and place it over the middle two strands.
    Take your leftmost strand and place it over the middle two strands.Take your leftmost strand and place it over the middle two strands.Take your leftmost strand and place it over the middle two strands.
    First Braid Pattern

  3. Repeat Braid Pattern

    • Repeat steps 2-4. Take the right strand over the adjacent strand, bring them together, then take the left strand over the middle two.
    Repeat steps 2-4. Take the right strand over the adjacent strand, bring them together, then take the left strand over the middle two.
    Repeat Braid Pattern

  4. Complete the Braid

    • Continue this pattern (right over middle, left over middle) until the braid is the desired length.
    Continue this pattern (right over middle, left over middle) until the braid is the desired length.
    Complete the Braid

Read more: DIY Crystal Bracelet: Easy Square Knot Tutorial

Tips

  • Maintain some tension on the strands to make braiding easier.
  • Remember the pattern: single strand from the right, double strand from the left. This helps keep the braiding consistent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tension

Reason: Pulling strands too tightly or too loosely results in a braid that's bumpy, uneven, or too tight/loose.
Solution: Maintain consistent, gentle tension on all four strands throughout the braiding process.

2. Losing Track of Strands

Reason: It's easy to get confused about which strand goes over or under, especially when starting out.
Solution: Number or color-code your strands initially to help you keep track.

FAQs

My four-strand braid keeps coming undone! What am I doing wrong?
This is a common issue. Make sure you're holding the strands firmly and keeping the tension consistent throughout the braiding process. Also, double-check that each strand is crossing over the adjacent strand correctly at each step, ensuring no strands are slipping out of place. Try using a little hairspray or braiding gel to keep the strands in place, especially if your hair is fine or slippery.