CORNROWS

There are many techniques for starting the traditional on-the-base braid known as the corn- row. The cornrow is created with a 3-strand, on-the-scalp braid, which uses an underhand "pick-up" technique. The fundamentals of braiding start with the basic cornrow According to master braid designer Annu Prestonia, co-owner of Khamit Kinks in Toronto and Ontario and celebrity braid designer (among her clients are such notables as Stevie Wonder and Angela Basset), cornrows are the foundation of all braid styles. "If you excel at the art of corn- rowing, all other braiding techniques are at your disposal," says Prestonia.

To cornrow like a professional you must be patient and practice. A skilled braider must take the time daily to practice cornrowing. Cornrowing is the repetition of the entire woven patterns; the sequence of weave patterns may vary and will determine the style. However, the series of revolutions is a simple repetition of a secure pick-up motion. Practicing will help you to develop speed, accuracy, and finger/wrist dexterity. The time required for braiding can vary from 2 hours for a large braid to 2 days for a micro braid. Mastering the basic cornrow tech­nique will enable you to approach other braid styles with confidence.

Skillful cornrowing is designed through the process of sculpting the parted sections. Sculpting is more than just vertical or horizontal partings. When sculpting the braid, you must first visualize the finished look. This will allow you to create smooth and consistent curved partings that contour with the head. The curved partings are a part of the design, so they must be neat and even. The more creative you are in designing the parts, the more beauti­ful the finished sculpted look will be. This contouring, or sculpting, is especially beautiful on small to medium sized cornrows.