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Cornrow braids are a traditional African braiding technique with deep cultural roots and historical significance. This hairstyle involves braiding the hair close to the scalp to create unique patterns and textures.
In Africa, cornrow braids are not just a beautiful style but also a representation of identity, age, marital status, and tribal affiliation. Different braiding styles and patterns convey rich social information. With the migration of African people, cornrow braids have spread globally, becoming a part of international fashion.
Today, cornrow braids are widely embraced in the fashion world, with many celebrities and style icons choosing this hairstyle to express individuality and cultural identity. In doll design, cornrow braids are also extensively applied to enhance unique aesthetics and incorporate cultural elements.
How to Differentiate Between Cornrow Braids and Dreadlocks?
Although both cornrow braids and dreadlocks are popular hairstyles that share similarities in appearance and cultural significance, they are fundamentally two distinct types of hairstyles. Below, we detail the differences in terms of appearance, craftsmanship, and cultural meaning:
Differences Between Cornrow Braids and Dreadlocks
Cornrow braids (Cornrows) and dreadlocks (Dreadlocks) are both widely loved hairstyles, but they differ significantly in terms of appearance, craftsmanship, and cultural significance:Appearance
Cornrow Braids:
Cornrow braids involve tightly braiding the hair close to the scalp, creating smooth, organized braids that often form geometric patterns. This gives a clean and neat look.Dreadlocks:
Dreadlocks are formed by naturally tangling the hair or manually fixing it into thick, rope-like strands. This results in a more rugged texture and a freer, more casual style.
Craftsmanship
Cornrow Braids:
Cornrow braids require intricate braiding techniques, with higher demands on tools and skills.Dreadlocks:
Dreadlocks are more natural, formed either by not combing the hair or by using techniques like crochet hooks to manually create the locks.
Cultural Significance
Cornrow Braids:
Originating in Africa, cornrow braids symbolize identity and art, but today they are often used as a fashion statement.Dreadlocks:
Dreadlocks, on the other hand, carry deeper meanings, representing cultural identity and the spirit of freedom.
Here, I would like to especially thank TDF member @Brunch for their correction. Previously, I often mistakenly confused the styles of cornrow braids and dreadlocks. Thank you, @Brunch, for providing the helpful link: https://lionlocs.com/blogs/dreadlocks/dreadlocks-vs-cornrows-what-s-the-difference.
Tools and Materials Checklist for Creating Cornrow Braids on Dolls
Tools Section
Fine-Tooth Comb
Used to section and smooth the hair, making it easier to braid.Crochet Needle
Used to secure hair at the scalp and manage shorter strands, ensuring the braids are tight and neat.Clips/Hairpins
Used to separate and fix unbraided sections to prevent interference during the braiding process.Spray Bottle (with water)
Used to lightly dampen the hair, reducing frizz and making it easier to handle.Hair Gel or Setting Spray
Used to keep the hairstyle in place and enhance the shine of the braids.Small Rubber Bands
Used to secure the ends of the braids and prevent them from unraveling.
Preparation Work
Brush the Hair:
Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth the doll’s hair, ensuring there are no tangles.Dampen the Hair:
Lightly spray the hair with a spray bottle to reduce frizz and make it easier to section and braid.
Step 1: Section the Hair
• Separate the Hair:
Use clips to separate unbraided hair, securing it to one side to avoid interference during the process.
• Take the First Section of Hair:
At the starting point of the path, take a small section of hair (approximately 0.5 cm wide). Avoid taking too much hair to ensure the braid stays tight and close to the scalp.
Step 2: Divide into Three Strands
Divide the Hair:
Use your fingers to evenly separate this section of hair into three strands, ensuring that each strand has a consistent thickness.
Step 3: Start Braiding
Cross the left strand over the top into the middle.
Cross the right strand over the top into the middle.
(At this point, you have completed a basic three-strand braid.)
Step 4: Add More Hair
Before each crossover, add a small amount of hair from both sides of the path to the corresponding strand.
This is a key step in creating cornrow braids, ensuring the braid stays tight against the scalp and achieves a smooth finish.
Step 5: Braid Multiple Cornrows
Repeat the above steps to braid more cornrows along the planned paths.
While braiding, ensure that each braid’s tension and width are consistent for a more harmonious overall appearance.
Step 6: Continue Braiding
Repeat Steps 3 and 4, gradually braiding along the path.
Ensure the added hair is evenly distributed and the braid remains tight and neat.
Step 7: Trim Loose Hairs
Use small scissors to trim off any excess or stray hairs on the surface of the braids.
This step helps make the braids look cleaner and more polished.
Care and Maintenance of Cornrow Braids
Although cornrow braids can greatly enhance the charm of your doll, proper maintenance can extend their lifespan and keep them looking neat. Here are a few simple and practical maintenance tips:
1. Daily Cleaning
Avoid Dust Accumulation:
Use a soft brush to gently remove dust from the braids’ surface and keep the hair clean.Prevent Tangles During Cleaning:
Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the scalp and avoid directly washing or pulling on the braids.
2. Prevent Unraveling
Check Elastic Bands Regularly:
Inspect the rubber bands at the ends of the braids to ensure they are not loose. Replace or re-tie if needed.Fix Loose Hair Strands:
Apply a small amount of hair gel or spray to the surface of the braids to secure any stray hair strands.
3. Storage and Protection
Avoid Compression:
When storing the doll, ensure the braids are not pressed by heavy objects to prevent deformation.Prevent Friction:
Use a silk or smooth fabric cover to wrap the doll’s head, reducing friction’s impact on the hairstyle.
Conclusion: Enhance Your Doll's Unique Charm with Cornrow Braids
Cornrow braids are a timeless hairstyle that transcends culture and time. With the tutorial and techniques provided in this article, you can not only create a stunning look for your doll but also imbue it with more personality and cultural depth. Whether you’re trying it for a DIY project or to add charm to your collection, this hairstyle will make your doll stand out.
As a brand dedicated to offering high-quality designs for doll lovers worldwide, Top CY Doll strives to bring fresh inspiration and creativity to your collection. Special thanks to Top CY Doll for supporting this tutorial with expert advice!
In the future, we will continue to launch tutorials related to doll hairstyling, nail art, and more, allowing your dolls to shine uniquely from head to toe. Remember to follow us and unlock more creative inspiration!