Braids are one of the easiest low maintenance ways of starting your dreadlocks. It really is as simple as braiding or getting your hair braided. Dreadlocks started with braids can be a wide range of sizes from the size of your finger to the size of a piece of yarn and every diameter in between.

Yarn Braid Extension

If you want locks and a.) have a perm and don’t want to cut it or b.) think you want them but are not completely sure consider starting your locks with yarn extensions. Yarn braids (a.k.a Nu Locs) are simply extension braids that are braided with acrylic yarn instead of synthetic hair. You really only need an inch or two of hair.

Weaving or interlocking the hair is a sure fire way to start locks (and maintain locks) on any hair type. Even the straightest hair can be locked with this method. The hair is woven from tip to root with your fingers or a tool. When you get to the end you are done.

If you are looking for a way to start your locks that can be handled a little more at the beginning you may want to consider starting your locks with two strand or double strand twists. Locks started with double strand twist are a lot more durable than locks started with coils, finger coils/roll, or palm rolls. This method will work on coily, curly and wavy hair types and hair that is at least two inches long.