How to Braid Locs

Hair locking is a natural coiling process that does not require any chemicals. Diane Carol Bailey and Jamie Rines Jones, authors of "Braiding Easy Styles for Everyone," say the locking process is also one of "self discovery and acceptance of genetic and cultural inheritance." Once locs have matured, their texture makes them amendable to braiding.

• 1

  Begin by dampening locs with water. Use a spritzer bottle to spray the locs to weigh them down and eliminate lint.

• 2

  Lightly spray locs with setting lotion to encourage hold.

• 3

  Part and section locs according the braiding style you have chosen. If you are planning to create two French braids, use your fingers to part the locs down the middle of scalp. Create two sections by pulling locs in a ponytail holder or in clips. Use a rat tail comb to section locs for a more intricate design.

• 4
  Don't put too much tension on the locs while braiding man with dreadlocks image by nutech21 from Fotolia.com

  Braid locs employing the 3-stand method. Starting with one section at a time, divide the section into three strands and braid crossing the right strand over the center strand and the left strand over the new center strand. Continue until you reach the ends. If you are creating a French braid, don't forget to pull 1-inch sections of locs on the left and right side of the plait as you braid.

• 5

  Secure the braided locs at the end with clips or a ponytail holder.