Beard braiding is an ancient art form that dates back hundreds of years. It was first practiced by the powerful Viking warriors as a way to display their strength and courage. Over the centuries, this practice has become a popular way for men to express themselves and stand out from the crowd. It has also become a means of fashion statement or even a way to show off one’s creativity. In recent times, beard braiding has become an increasingly popular style for men, especially among those with Viking heritage.
While beard braiding may sound intimidating and difficult, it does not require a lot of skill. In fact, it is not hard to learn once you have the basics down. The best way to learn is to have someone who is experienced help you out and give you some tips. Here is a guide on how to braid a Viking beard.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before you can start styling your beard, you will need to gather up some supplies. You will need a comb, some hair ties, some hair clips and a small pair of scissors. You may also need a pair of blunt tweezers if you plan on making intricate designs with your beard. Finally, you will need a quality beard balm or oil to help hold the braids together and keep the hairs from becoming unmanageable.
Step 2: Comb Through the Beard
Once you have all the necessary supplies, you should start by combing through your beard. This will help ensure that there are no knots in the hairs. You should also take your time when combing and try to use long strokes to ensure that the hairs are properly separated. Once you are done combing, you can then proceed on to the next step.
Step 3: Sectioning the Hair
When braiding a Viking beard, you will need to section the hair into smaller pieces. This is best done by using a comb and some clips to divide the beard into four equal parts. Once the hair is sectioned off, you can then begin to create your braids. When it comes to deciding which braid to use, you have a few different options.
Step 4: Choose a Braid Style
The most common types of braids used in Viking beards are the fishtail, the looped, and the French braid. Each of these braids has its own unique look and can be used to create a variety of designs. Once you have chosen the type of braid you would like to use, you can proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Braiding the Beard
After you have decided on the type of braid, you can now begin braiding your Viking beard. For the looped and fishtail braids, you will want to start at the bottom and work your way up. For the French braid, you should start at the top and work your way down. It is important to pay close attention to the braiding process so that you do not end up with uneven or sloppy braids.
Step 6: Finishing the Beard
Once you have finished braiding your beard, you will want to use a beard balm or oil to help keep the braids looking neat and tidy. You may also want to go over the braids with a comb once again to make sure that everything looks even. Finally, you can stand back and admire your handiwork.
Step 7: Maintenance
In order to properly maintain your Viking beard braids, you will need to comb through your beard daily and make sure that the braids are still intact. You will also want to use a quality beard balm or oil to keep the braids in place and help reduce the possibility of any knots forming. If you follow these steps, you should be able to keep your beard looking neat and tidy.
Styles and Ideas
Once you have mastered the basics of beard braiding, you can start experimenting with different styles and ideas. You can use a combination of different braid styles to create unique looks. You can even add decorations such as beads or feathers to give your beard a more elaborate look. With practice and creativity, you can create amazing styles that will set you apart from the rest.
Tips and Tricks
When it comes to beard braiding, practice makes perfect. Be patient and take your time when creating your braids. Also, make sure that you use the right products to help get the job done. Quality beard oil, balm, and comb will help ensure that the hairs stay in place and will make the braiding process much easier. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try out new styles. With patience and some practice, you will be able to create a stunning look.
Professional Help
If you find yourself struggling with braiding your beard, you can always consider seeking professional help. Many barbers and cosmetologists are experienced with facial hair styling and can help guide you through the process. A professional can also help you select the right products and give you advice on how to create the perfect look. Just remember to be clear about what you want, so that your barber or cosmetologist can give you the best advice.
Conclusion
Braiding a beard can be a great way to express yourself and stand out from the crowd. It is not a difficult task, as long as you have the basics down. With practice, patience, and the right supplies, you can create amazing styles that will look great. So, grab your comb and get ready to braid yourself a Viking beard.
