If you've ever wondered how to dutch braid, you're in the right place. A Dutch braid, often called an inside-out braid, is created by crossing hair sections under the middle strand while adding hair as you braid. The result is a raised, three-dimensional style that's perfect for everyday wear, workouts, and special occasions.
Whether you're learning your first Dutch braid or trying to braid your own hair, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through every step.
What You'll Need
Essential Tools
Before starting your dutch braid tutorial, gather a few essentials:
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A hair brush to remove tangles and create smooth sections
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A TELETIES hair tie to secure the finished braid
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A mirror, especially if you're learning how to do a dutch braid by yourself
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Texturizing spray for added grip (optional)
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Smoothing cream to tame flyaways (optional)
For best results, start with hair that's detangled and easy to manage.
How to Dutch Braid Step by Step
Ready to learn how to dutch braid step by step? Follow these simple instructions.
Step 1: How to Start a Dutch Braid
One of the most common questions is how to start dutch braid styles correctly.
Begin by taking a section of hair from your crown or hairline, depending on where you'd like the braid to start. Hold this section close to your scalp to maintain control.
Step 2: Divide Hair Into Three Sections
Split the starting section into three equal strands:
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Left section
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Middle section
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Right section
Keeping the sections as even as possible will help your braid look neat and balanced.
Step 3: Cross the Strands Under
This is the most important part of learning how to do a dutch braid.
Start by crossing the right strand underneath the middle strand.
Next, cross the left strand underneath the new middle strand.
Remember: under, not over.
Step 4: Add Hair as You Braid
Now it's time to create the Dutch braid effect.
Before crossing a strand underneath, pick up a small section of loose hair from the same side and combine it with that strand.
Then cross the enlarged section underneath the middle.
Step 5: Continue the Pattern
Continue working down the head:
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Add hair to the right section
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Cross under
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Add hair to the left section
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Cross under
Repeat the pattern while maintaining even tension throughout the braid.
Step 6: Finish and Secure
Once you've incorporated all of your hair, continue with a traditional three-strand braid until you reach the ends.
Secure with a hair tie.
For extra fullness, gently pull apart the outer edges of the braid. This technique, known as pancaking, creates a softer and more voluminous look.
How to Dutch Braid Your Own Hair
Learning how to dutch braid your own hair can feel challenging at first, but a few simple tricks make it much easier.
If you're a beginner, give yourself some grace. The first few attempts may feel awkward. Muscle memory develops quickly, and you'll notice improvement every time you practice.
Set Up Your Mirror
One of the biggest challenges when learning how to dutch braid your own hair is seeing the back of your head. Position yourself between two mirrors, one in front of you and one placed behind you so you can see the back of your head as you braid.
Keep Your Hands Close to Your Head
A common mistake when learning how to do a dutch braid by yourself is letting your hands drift away from your scalp.
Keeping your hands close gives you better control and helps the braid stay tight and even.
Practice on Textured Hair
If your hair is freshly washed and slippery, try adding a little texturizing spray.
Many people find that second-day hair is actually easier to braid.
Common Dutch Braiding Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced braiders make mistakes occasionally.
Watch out for these common issues:
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Crossing over instead of under
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Creating uneven sections
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Braiding too tightly, which can cause discomfort
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Letting your hands move away from the scalp
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Adding too much hair at once
Taking your time and working with smaller sections often produces the best results.
How to Dutch Braid Short Hair
Wondering how to dutch braid short hair?
Good news: shorter hair can absolutely be Dutch braided.
A few helpful tips:
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Use smaller sections for better control
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Expect layers to pop out occasionally
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Secure loose pieces with pins if needed
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Try a half-up Dutch braid if your hair is very short
Tops For Dutch Braiding On Someone Else
Learning how to dutch braid on someone else is often easier than braiding your own hair because you can clearly see the sections.
To make the process smoother:
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Stand directly behind the person
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Keep your hands close to their scalp
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Maintain consistent tension
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Work with evenly sized sections
Many people find that practicing on someone else helps them better understand the braid pattern.
How to Double Dutch Braid
Once you've mastered a single braid, it's time to learn how to double dutch braid.
Start by creating a clean center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck.
Then:
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Clip one side away using a claw clip
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Complete the first Dutch braid
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Repeat on the opposite side
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Secure both braids with hair ties
Double Dutch braids are perfect for workouts, busy days, and casual weekends. They also create gorgeous waves when taken out later.
What Is a Dutch Braid?
So, what is a dutch braid? A Dutch braid is a three-strand braid created by crossing sections underneath the middle strand while adding hair as you go. Often called an inside-out braid, it creates a raised look that sits on top of the hair.
When comparing Dutch and French braids, the biggest difference is the direction of the crossing pattern:
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French braid = strands cross over the middle
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Dutch braid = strands cross under the middle
Shop TELETIES hair accessories designed for all hair types.
FAQs About Dutch Braids
Is a dutch or french braid easier?
French braids are often easier for beginners because the strands cross over the middle section. Dutch braids use the same technique but cross underneath instead. Once you learn the pattern, both are equally beginner-friendly.
Do you braid over or under for dutch braids?
Dutch braids are created by crossing each outer section underneath the middle strand. This under-crossing technique gives the braid its raised, three-dimensional look.
How do you do really tight dutch braids on yourself?
Keep your hands close to your scalp, use small sections, and maintain even tension throughout the braid. Slightly textured or second-day hair can also help the braid stay secure without slipping.
