
Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
This braided updo created by Modern Salon Facebook fan Janet Williams, consists of three French Braids. Learn how to create this style. Photo steps are included.

This braided updo created by Modern Salon Facebook fan Janet Williams, consists of three French Braids. Each one is a four-strand braid. This style can be done in very little time, depending on hair texture and braiding skills. It can also be done using the three-strand French braid. Here, Williams provides us with her steps on how to re-create this beautiful French Braid Twist.
STEP 1: Use a long-haired mannequin, or make sure that your client has long hair in order to achieve this style.
STEP 2: The hair is divided into three sections. A large section in the middle, a small one on the right side, and an even smaller one on the left side. Everything is asymmetrical. The parting at the nape hairline is off center. During the braiding, it is important to aim at this point. Your body position and hand positions should always be in line with this point.
STEP 3: The smallest section is French braided, using small partings. Continue braiding four strands and secure ends. (Braid #1)
STEP 4: The right side section is French braided. In the first two braid movements, tiny additions are made on top for anchoring purposes, with long sections added from below. After this, only additions are made from below. It is important that during the braiding, hands are kept above the part. (This keeps the braid as close to the part as possible.) Continue braiding. Secure ends. (Braid #2)
STEP 5: You should have two finished braids. Notice how both end up at the same point.
STEP 6: A starting section is parted out for the final braid. It is not the complete width of the section, leaving hair free on each side. Hair is backcombed at base, to avoid showing separation. Hair is sectioned off for braiding but not separated to the scalp.
STEP 7: Though it starts off with small sections, this braid has large partings added as it moves along. It moves towards the point so it is asymmetrical. Braid to ends and secure. (Braid #3)
STEP 8: All braids are loosened by gently pulling on sections to soften and hide partings.
STEP 9: Braid #2 is bent back to the right. Ends are folded under and pinned into style.
STEP 10: Braid #3 is bent, slightly under braid #2. Fold the ends under and pin into style.
STEP 11: Braid #1 is placed under braid #3, and is used to support the style (it can instead be used to fill in areas, if needed, depending on hair thickness and texture) and pinned underneath.
STEP 12: Check profile. A tail end comb can be used to lift braids to desired fullness.

MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.

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