Horse Braiding Tip # 5: The Forelock

"How do you keep the forelock braid from looking like a croissant...mine always gets really puffy and swirly, and I can't seem to figure out why."

Braiding the forelock is essentially a french braid. This is done by adding a fresh piece of mane with each cross over. Like braiding the mane, you want to start by wetting the forelock with water and combing it out really well.

Here are some tips to help you out:

• The first three sections of hair you grab are going to form triangle.
  
• When crossing each section of forelock over, try adding an extra half twist to each piece.
  
• Add smaller pieces of mane each new cross over. The more pieces you add, the fancier the braid will look.
  
• If you are finding it difficult to keep your braid straight and tight, you can braid your forelock using the same braiding technique as a tail braid. This is done by crossing your braid over, and then adding a new piece. This is hard to explain without a visual, "One for the Money" explains the different in cross over techniques from a french braid in the forelock and a tail braid.


• There is a quick test you can do to determine when to tie your forelock off. Tie the braid off when it is long enough to fold back to touch the top of the braid. Leave the excess ends of the forelock unbraided to keep your braid looking less bulky. Using your sewing needle, tuck the loose ends under the braid when pulling the braid under.

For more tips and detailed visual explanation on how to braid a forelock and tie it off, check out "One for the Money" an instructional braiding DVD. Email TopKnotHorseBraids@gmail.com to order for $35.