I have had so many people ask me how to to this trademark hairstyle of mine, I finally got around to putting it up on the website. This is a very elegant and confusing hairstyle to those who do not know how to do it, but now you can! Below you will find the instructions on how to do my braided up-do hairstyle. All the pictures were taken as I made one this morning, so despite the worded directions, it can be done. If you have any questions, please dont hesitate to email me. Good luck!


You will need a doll with hair down to her bottom (such as a Bead Blast shown) and:



Rubber bands, Needle and thread to match doll's hair color, Small Pliers, Hair Brush, Pins, and Scissors

1. Gather the doll's hair into a single ponytail.


2. Divide the ponytail into two sections, a left section and a right section. Braid each section in a three part braid as far down as is humanly possible. (Now would also be the time to braid in some string pearls or ribbon for added effect. Try that once you have mastered the general directions.) Tie off each braid with a rubber band and trim 1/4 to 1/2 inch from the bottom of the rubber band. Trim as close as you can without the rubber band coming off.



3. Take the left braid and wrap it clockwise around the ponytail band. Pin in place.

  

4. Wrap the right braid clockwise, covering the rubber band that tied off the left braid. Tuck the end of the right braid under the left braid wherever it ends. Pin in place. It may take a few tries to get the wrapping just right. Make sure things look good from both the back and the front of the doll.

  

5. Take your needle and thread and secure it at the base of the doll's neck in the back. Make sure you get it good and tight.



6. Work the needle and thread through the hair and the rubber bands 5-6 times. You want to make sure you catch the bands, as that will hold the hairdo together best. I work from the bottom (where the thread is tied off) straight up to the top, (using the pliers cause it's tough getting the needle through the bands), then from the top to the right side, then through the middle to the left, from the left back through to the top, then straight back down to the bottom. You might also want to make a couple extra stiches to pull the hair over the bands that kinda show. Also, make your stiches on the surface of the hair go with the grain of the hair. You do not want to cross the thread over the hair because you will then be able to see the stich. You will need to practice this to see what works best for you.

  

7. Tie the thread off at the same place you started it, at the base of the back of her hairline. Trim off any fly away hairs from the up-do, and you're done! I know it seems complicated, but one you get it right, it is as easy as pie. Believe me, I can only do a few hair styles, and this is my most famous! If I can do it, you can too. If you try this hairstyle on any of your dolls, please email me and let me know how it went. Send em a picture too if you like. I would love to see what others can do with this!

FINISHED DOLL:





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