Michael Kent, Blue Tit Salon Manager and stylist, shares two how-to techniques from his recent shoot, which was all about redefining texture and exploring the transformative nature of afro and textured hair. “Embracing the theme of metamorphosis, each style showcases the hair's natural beauty while illustrating its remarkable adaptability,” explains Michael.
Keep reading to find out Michael’s steps for creating Bantu knots and bubble braids…
How to Create: Bantu Knots
This iconic style isn’t just a hairstyle; it’s a whole vibe. Whether your clients want to rock them as a standalone look or unravel them for juicy, defined curls, Bantu knots are a versatile, gorgeous look. Whether you’re hitting the club, brunch, or just chilling at home, this style will have you feeling like the royalty you are.
What You’ll Need
· Wide-tooth comb
· Rat-tail comb
· Hair clips or sectioning clamps
· Your favourite leave-in conditioner or moisturiser
· Styling gel or edge control (optional, but we love a sleek finish)
· Hair oil or butter (for shine that’ll blind them)
· Small elastics (for those stubborn knots that need a little extra love)
Step 1: Prep That Hair
First things first start with clean, detangled hair. Bantu knots work on any hair texture, but slightly damp hair is where the magic happens. Grab your leave-in conditioner or moisturiser and work it through the hair like you’re feeding it life. Hydration is non-negotiable.
Step 2: Section
Using your rat-tail comb, part your hair into sections. The size is up to the individual – smaller sections give a cute, intricate look, while larger sections scream drama and boldness. Secure each section with a clip so you’re not fighting stray strands while you work.
Step 3: Smooth It Out
Take a moment to show each section some love. Add a bit of styling gel, butter, or oil to keep things smooth and frizz-free. Run it through with your fingers or a comb until the hair is softer.
Step 4: Twist It Up
Grab a section and start twisting from the roots to the ends. Keep it tight, but don’t overdo it – we want snatched, not stressed.
Step 5: Knot It
Here comes the fun part: take that twist and wrap it around itself at the base to form a knot. Keep wrapping until you’ve got a cute little bun sitting pretty. Tuck the ends under the knot, and if it’s flying away, secure it with an elastic.
Repeat
Work your way through all the sections, taking your time to make each knot as flawless.
Step 7: Set and Forget (For Now)
Once you’ve got all your knots in place, let them air dry or sit under a hooded dryer if your client is in a hurry. Want to make it extra sleek? Wrap their hair with a satin or silk scarf.
Step 8: Rock the Knots or Release the Curls
Your clients can wear their Bantu knots as-is, or they can unravel them for bouncy, defined curls. When they’re ready to take them down, they should be gentle – separating the curls with their fingers.
How to Create: Bubble Braids
Bubble braids are the moment, they’re playful and chic. Whether your client wants to channel Y2K vibes, is hitting up a festival or is just feeling extra fabulous, this style is perfect for turning heads. And guess what? They’re easier to do than you think.
What You’ll Need
· A paddle brush or wide-tooth comb
· A rat-tail comb
· Hair elastics (a bunch)
· Hair gel or pomade (for sleekness and control)
· Hair mousse or volumizer (optional for extra oomph)
· A bit of hair oil for shine
Step 1: All About the Prep
Start with clean, detangled hair. Bubble braids work on any hair type, but if your client wants maximum drama, blow out the hair or stretch it first. Add a little mousse or volumizer for extra fullness – this style thrives on volume.
Step 2: Part It
Decide how many bubble braids you want. A single dramatic braid down the centre? Two for that classic vibe? Or multiple braids? Use your rat-tail comb to part their hair accordingly. Secure the sections you’re not working on with clips.
Step 3: Slick and Snatch
Apply a bit of gel or pomade to the roots for a sleek finish. Use a brush to smooth everything out because we want polished, not messy. Tie off your first section with an elastic – this is the start of your braid.
Step 4: Start Bubbling
About an inch or two down from the first elastic, add another one. Once it’s secured, gently tug the hair between the elastics to create that bubble effect. This is where the magic happens. The bigger the tug, the puffier the bubble – so go big or go home!
Step 5: Repeat, Repeat, Repeat
Keep adding elastics at equal intervals down the length of the hair, tugging to create bubbles as you go. Make sure your spacing is consistent for a clean look. Don’t be shy about adjusting the bubbles.
Step 6: Add the Drama
Once all your bubbles are in place, finish with a touch of hair oil for shine. Want to go extra? Add accessories like beads, ribbons, or even glitter. This is your chance to take their look to the next level and make it personal to the client.
Step 7: Lock It In
Mist the hair with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place; we don’t do deflated bubbles around here.
