Plaiting hair for a Crimped effect

Crimped hair from Antoinette Beenders

Millions of tiny plaits would create a lok like this

Zig-zag crimping like this is done by wrapping the hair around hair pins - Maria Legudi

Thanks to Maria Legudi

This hair crimping effect is the classic look you would get with plaiting from Paula Kelly

Pic courtesy of Paula Kelly - a classic plaited or braided crimp effect hair style

Plaiting to create a Crimped effect

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For an alternative hair style why not try a crimped effect. This can be created with crimping irons but if you want to achieve this hair style without the heat damage that can occur with the over use of crimpers or even something to keep the kids amused this could be fun to try.

Tools and other items you will need:

Covered elastic bands
Paddle or similar brush to remove tangles
Gel or mousse and possibly some oil/glass
A large comb
A clip to keep hair not being plaited out of the way

The size/number of plaits you create will give you a different effect:

For large gentle waves divide your hair up into about 6 sections and plait loosely.
For stronger waves, 6 sections will again be about right but plait the hair tightly.
For sharp zigzag waves or that crimped effect, you will need at least 14 sections, the more the "ziggier" it will be.

Method:

You don't need to shampoo your hair to do this, just dampen it a little.
Comb through some gel or mousse.
Divide your hair roughly into the number of sections you want. The rougher the sections the better as the ''section marks' in the final look will not be noticable.
Divide each section the same as for a simple plait (see below) and start plaiting as close to the scalp as possible.
Finish as near to the ends as as you can.
Carefully secure with a covered band so that it does not become undone, but not so tight as to bend the ends upwards, as this will be reflected in the finished look.
Leave overnight.
Remove in the morning and either shake out with your hands or brush through lightly. Brushing will give a bigger, more full effect.
Smooth out any 'frizzies' using drops or oil spread over your hands then stroked down the length of your hair.