Interlocking is a technique of connecting dreadlocks collectively to create a everlasting bond. This system is usually used to create intricate patterns and designs in dreadlocks, and it can be used to restore damaged dreadlocks. On this article, we’ll present a step-by-step information on how you can interlock dreadlocks.
Earlier than you start interlocking your dreadlocks, you will need to be sure that they’re clear and freed from any filth or particles. You also needs to be sure that your dreadlocks are lengthy sufficient to interlock. The perfect size for interlocking is about 6 inches or longer. In case your dreadlocks are shorter than this, they might be too tough to interlock.
After getting ready your dreadlocks, you may start the interlocking course of. To interlock two dreadlocks, begin by crossing the 2 dreadlocks over one another. Then, take the tip of 1 dreadlock and wrap it across the base of the opposite dreadlock. Subsequent, take the tip of the opposite dreadlock and wrap it across the base of the primary dreadlock. Proceed wrapping the 2 dreadlocks round one another till they’re securely interlocked.
Selecting the Proper Instruments
Deciding on the perfect instruments is paramount to interlocking dreadlocks successfully. Every device serves a particular function and contributes to the general final result. Here is a complete information to the important instruments and their capabilities:
Comb: A necessary device for separating and sectioning dreadlocks. Go for a wide-tooth comb with sturdy tines to forestall breakage or harm.
Crochet Hook: A flexible device used for interlocking dreadlocks and including extensions. Select a hook with a measurement that matches the thickness of your dreads. A smaller hook is beneficial for smaller dreads, whereas a bigger hook fits thicker ones.
Dreading Sponge: A specialty device used to create and tighten dreadlocks within the early levels of formation. It consists of a textured floor that aids in matting and interlocking hairs to type nascent dreadlocks.
Crochet Needle: A fine-tipped needle used for intricate repairs and changes to dreadlocks. It permits for exact changes and reshaping of particular person locks.
Locking Gel: An optionally available product that helps to strengthen and maintain dreadlocks in place. It could actually scale back flyaways and promote a extra cohesive dreadlock construction.
Further Issues:
- Needle or Hook Dimension: Match the needle or hook measurement to your dreadlock thickness for optimum outcomes.
- Materials: Go for instruments made out of sturdy supplies like chrome steel or bamboo to make sure longevity and resistance to bending or breaking.
- Consolation: Take into account the ergonomics of the instruments to attenuate hand fatigue and pressure throughout prolonged use.
Making ready Your Dreads
Earlier than interlocking your dreads, it is essential to organize them to make sure a profitable interlocking course of. Here is an in depth information to get your dreads prepared:
Cleaning Your Dreads
Begin by completely washing your dreads with a clarifying shampoo. Keep away from utilizing common shampoos or conditioners, as they will go away behind residue that may hinder the interlocking course of. After washing, rinse your dreads with lukewarm water and allow them to air dry utterly.
Retwisting Your Dreads
As soon as your dreads are clear, it is time to retwist them. Retwisting helps tighten and compact the dreads, making them stronger and simpler to interlock. Use the palm-rolling method to softly twist every dread from root to tip. This can assist create a clean and even base for interlocking.
Sectioning Your Dreads
To make the interlocking course of extra manageable, part your dreads into smaller sections. Use clips or hair ties to separate your dreads into teams of 3-5 dreads. This can assist you deal with one part at a time and make sure that all of your dreads are interlocked evenly.
Making ready Your Interlocking Instruments
Select the interlocking instruments that you can be utilizing, comparable to a crochet hook or interlocking needle. Be certain that the instruments are clear and sharp to facilitate the interlocking course of. You might also need to use a dread wax or cream to assist lubricate the dreads and make the interlocking extra seamless.
| Interlocking Software | Description |
|---|---|
| Crochet Hook | A small hook-shaped device used for interlocking dreads by catching the hair and pulling it via the bottom of one other dread. |
| Interlocking Needle | A skinny, needle-like device with a curved tip used for interlocking dreads by poking it via the bottom of 1 dread and pulling the hair of one other dread via. |
Splitting and Wrapping Approach
The splitting and wrapping technique is one other efficient method for interlocking dreads. Not like the palm rolling technique, this method includes utilizing a device or your fingers to separate the strands of hair and wrap them round one another to create a dreadlock.
To make use of the splitting and wrapping method, comply with these steps:
- Cut up the hair: Begin by dividing the hair into two sections utilizing a rattail comb or your fingers.
- Wrap the sections: Take one part of hair and wrap it across the different part clockwise. Pull the wrapped hair via the middle of the dreadlock.
- Repeat: Proceed wrapping the 2 sections of hair round one another in the identical course till you attain the specified size of the dreadlock.
- Safe the tip: After getting wrapped the sections to the tip, safe the dreadlock with a rubber band or string.
Detailed Information to Splitting and Wrapping Approach
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Use a rattail comb or your fingers to separate the hair into two sections (left and proper). |
| 2 | Take the left part and wrap it over the precise part clockwise. |
| 3 | Pull the wrapped left part via the middle of the dreadlock and maintain it securely. |
| 4 | Take the precise part and wrap it over the left part clockwise, wrapping in the identical course as earlier than. |
| 5 | Pull the wrapped proper part via the middle of the dreadlock and maintain it beside the left part. |
| 6 | Repeat steps 2-5 till you attain the specified size of the dreadlock. |
| 7 | Safe the tip of the dreadlock with a rubber band or string to forestall unraveling. |
The splitting and wrapping method is right for creating dreadlocks of assorted sizes and densities. It additionally permits for extra management over the form and look of the dreadlocks.
Interlocking with the Crochet Hook
The crochet hook technique is a broadly used method for interlocking dreadlocks. It includes utilizing a crochet hook to tug hair from the bottom of 1 dread into the bottom of one other.
Supplies:
- Crochet hook (measurement depends upon hair thickness)
- Moisturizing spray (optionally available)
Steps:
- Put together the dreadlocks: Part off the dreadlocks you need to interlock and moisten them with a moisturizing spray if desired.
- Insert the hook: Angle the crochet hook into the bottom of the primary dreadlock, about 1-2 inches from the foundation.
- Pull via: Hook the tip of the crochet hook into the bottom of the second dreadlock.
- Hook the hair: Fastidiously pull the hair via the bottom of the primary dreadlock and loop it over the hook.
Repeat steps 3 and 4 till the specified stage of interlocking is achieved. For a stronger interlocking, pull the hair loop tightly over the hook and thru the bottom of the second dreadlock.
Suggestions:
- Use a hook that’s the applicable measurement on your hair thickness. A smaller hook will create a tighter interlock, whereas a bigger hook will create a looser one.
- Be affected person and work slowly. Interlocking can take time, particularly in case your dreadlocks are thick or matted.
- If the dreadlocks are too dry, they might break while you pull them via. Apply a moisturizing spray to forestall this.
Pressure and Tightness
When interlocking dreads, you will need to obtain the precise stability between rigidity and tightness. If the dreadlocks are too unfastened, they are going to be liable to unraveling. If they’re too tight, they will trigger ache and harm to the hair. The perfect rigidity is one that’s comfortable however not constricting.
To seek out the precise rigidity, begin by interlocking the dreads flippantly. Then, steadily enhance the stress till the dreads really feel safe and the hair is not unfastened. You should definitely verify the stress commonly and modify it as wanted.
The next desk gives a information to the completely different ranges of rigidity:
| Degree of Pressure | Description |
|---|---|
| Gentle | The dreads are unfastened and straightforward to maneuver. |
| Medium | The dreads are comfortable however not constricting. |
| Tight | The dreads are very tight and tough to maneuver. |
The perfect stage of rigidity will differ relying on the person’s hair kind and preferences. It is very important experiment to seek out the precise rigidity that works greatest for you.
Ending
As soon as your dreads are interlocked, you may want to complete them off. This includes wrapping the ends of the dreads with thread or yarn to safe them and forestall them from unraveling. You need to use any colour of thread or yarn you want, however make sure that it is robust sufficient to carry the dreads in place. To wrap the ends, merely begin on the base of the dread and wrap the thread or yarn round it tightly, working your method as much as the tip. When you attain the tip, safe the thread or yarn with a knot.
Upkeep
As soon as your dreads are completed, you may want to keep up them to maintain them wholesome and searching their greatest. Listed here are a number of ideas:
Washing
Dreadlocks ought to be washed commonly, however not too typically. Washing them too typically can strip them of their pure oils, which may result in dryness and breakage. Intention to clean your dreadlocks each 2-3 weeks, or extra typically in the event that they get soiled or smelly.
Drying
After washing your dreadlocks, it is necessary to dry them completely. Air drying is the easiest way to dry dreadlocks, however when you’re brief on time, you should use a blow dryer on a low warmth setting. You should definitely maintain the blow dryer no less than 6 inches away out of your dreadlocks to keep away from harm.
Retwisting
Retwisting is a technique of tightening the dreadlocks and conserving them in place. Retwisting ought to be finished each 4-6 weeks, or extra typically in case your dreadlocks are unfastened or frizzy. To retwist your dreadlocks, merely take a small part of hair on the base of the dreadlock and twist it tightly. Proceed twisting the dreadlock all the best way to the tip, after which safe it with a knot.
Moisturizing
Dreadlocks can turn out to be dry and brittle if they don’t seem to be moisturized commonly. To moisturize your dreadlocks, you should use a pure oil, comparable to coconut oil or olive oil. Merely apply the oil to your dreadlocks and therapeutic massage it in. You may as well use a industrial dreadlock moisturizer.
Crochet
Crochet is a device that can be utilized to tighten and neaten dreadlocks. Crochet can be utilized to restore unfastened or frizzy dreadlocks, and it can be used to create new dreadlocks. To crochet your dreadlocks, merely insert the crochet hook into the bottom of the dreadlock and pull the hair via the hook. Proceed crocheting the dreadlock all the best way to the tip, after which safe it with a knot.
Variations on Interlocking
Single Interlocking
That is probably the most fundamental and customary technique of interlocking. It includes utilizing a crochet hook to loop one dread over the opposite.
Double Interlocking
This technique is just like single interlocking, however includes looping the dread over itself twice as a substitute of as soon as. This creates a stronger and safer connection.
Triple Interlocking
That is probably the most time-consuming and sophisticated variation of interlocking, but it surely additionally creates the strongest and most sturdy connection. It includes looping the dread over itself thrice as a substitute of a couple of times.
Palm Rolling
This technique makes use of the palms of the palms to roll the dreads collectively. It’s a much less exact technique than utilizing a crochet hook, however it may be extra snug and might create a extra pure look.
Intersection Interlocking
This technique includes interlocking two dreads which can be crossed over one another. This creates a extra complicated and attention-grabbing look.
Crochet Hook Interlocking
This technique makes use of a crochet hook to loop the dreads collectively. It’s a extra exact technique than palm rolling, however it may be extra time-consuming and might harm the dreads if not finished correctly.
Twisting
This technique includes twisting the dreads collectively by hand. It’s a much less exact technique than utilizing a crochet hook, however it may be extra snug and might create a extra pure look.
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Single Interlocking | Utilizing a crochet hook to loop one dread over the opposite. |
| Double Interlocking | Looping the dread over itself twice as a substitute of as soon as. |
| Triple Interlocking | Looping the dread over itself thrice as a substitute of a couple of times. |
| Palm Rolling | Rolling the dreads along with the palms of the palms. |
| Intersection Interlocking | Interlocking two dreads which can be crossed over one another. |
| Crochet Hook Interlocking | Utilizing a crochet hook to loop the dreads collectively. |
| Twisting | Twisting the dreads collectively by hand. |
Troubleshooting Widespread Points
8. My dreads are unraveling.
Doable causes:
| Trigger | Resolution | |
|---|---|---|
| New progress not being interlocked | Interlock new progress commonly to forestall unraveling. | |
| Dreads not being interlocked tightly sufficient | Interlock dreads extra tightly to safe them. | |
| Over-moisturizing or utilizing harsh chemical compounds | Keep away from extreme moisturizing or utilizing harsh chemical compounds that may weaken the hair. | |
| Dreads not being maintained correctly | Comply with correct dread upkeep strategies, together with common washing, conditioning, and re-interlocking. | |
| Underlying hair harm | Search skilled session to handle any underlying hair harm which may be contributing to unraveling. |
| Variety of Dreadlocks | Time Required | Effort Degree |
|---|---|---|
| 1-10 | 1-2 hours | Straightforward |
| 11-20 | 2-4 hours | Average |
| 21-30 | 4-6 hours | Exhausting |
| 31+ | 6+ hours | Very Exhausting |
Advantages of Interlocking Dreads
Interlocking dreads is a technique of sustaining dreadlocks through the use of a crochet hook or interlocking device to twist and lock the strands collectively. It gives a number of advantages for dreadlock wearers, together with:
- Strengthening Dreads: Interlocking tightens the bonds between dreadlocks, making them much less liable to breakage and unraveling.
- Diminished Frizz: Interlocking smooths out the floor of dreads, decreasing frizz and flyaways.
- Elevated Quantity: The interlocking method creates a extra compact and voluminous look.
- Enhanced Definition: Interlocking defines the person dreadlocks, giving them a extra polished and well-groomed look.
- Diminished Shrinkage: Interlocking prevents dreads from shrinking and permits them to keep up their desired size.
- Much less Upkeep: Interlocking requires much less frequent upkeep than different dreadlock strategies, because it retains them neat and tidy for longer.
- Versatile Styling: Interlocked dreads might be styled in varied methods, making them appropriate for a variety of seems to be.
- Improved Scalp Well being: Common interlocking helps distribute oils all through the dreadlocks and scalp, selling scalp well being.
- Strengthened Hair Roots: Interlocking applies light rigidity to the hair roots, stimulating progress and stopping hair loss.
- Diminished Tangles and Knots: Interlocking untangles and smooths out dreadlocks, decreasing the chance of tangles and knots.
How To Interlock Dreads
Interlocking is a loc upkeep method that includes twisting two or extra locs collectively to create a safe maintain. This technique is usually used to restore damaged locs, in addition to to create new locs or add size to present ones. Interlocking might be finished on all hair sorts, though it’s mostly used on kinky or curly hair.
To interlock dreads, you will want a crochet hook or a pair of needle-nose pliers. You may as well use your fingers, however this technique isn’t as efficient.
In case you are utilizing a crochet hook or needle-nose pliers, insert the device into the middle of one of many locs and pull it via to create a loop. Then, insert the device into the middle of the second loc and pull it via the loop. Tighten the knot by pulling on each ends of the locs.
In case you are utilizing your fingers, merely twist the 2 locs collectively till they’re safe. You possibly can then use a crochet hook or needle-nose pliers to tighten the knot if desired.
As soon as the locs are interlocked, you should use a locking gel or wax to assist hold them in place. You may as well wrap the locs with yarn or thread so as to add colour or design.
Folks Additionally Ask About How To Interlock Dreads
How typically ought to I interlock my dreads?
The frequency with which it’s essential to interlock your dreads will rely upon how briskly your hair grows and the way properly you keep your locs. Typically, you need to interlock your dreads each 2-4 weeks.
What are the advantages of interlocking dreads?
Interlocking dreads can present an a variety of benefits, together with:
What are the dangers of interlocking dreads?
Interlocking dreads may pose some dangers, together with:
