Interlocking is a technique of connecting dreadlocks collectively to create a everlasting bond. This method is commonly 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, it is very important make it possible for they’re clear and freed from any filth or particles. You must also make it possible for your dreadlocks are lengthy sufficient to interlock. The best size for interlocking is about 6 inches or longer. In case your dreadlocks are shorter than this, they could be too troublesome to interlock.
After getting ready your dreadlocks, you’ll be able to start the interlocking course of. To interlock two dreadlocks, begin by crossing the 2 dreadlocks over one another. Then, take the top of 1 dreadlock and wrap it across the base of the opposite dreadlock. Subsequent, take the top 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
Choosing the perfect instruments is paramount to interlocking dreadlocks successfully. Every software serves a selected objective and contributes to the general final result. This is a complete information to the important instruments and their capabilities:
Comb: A vital software for separating and sectioning dreadlocks. Go for a wide-tooth comb with sturdy tines to stop breakage or injury.
Crochet Hook: A flexible software used for interlocking dreadlocks and including extensions. Select a hook with a measurement that matches the thickness of your dreads. A smaller hook is really useful for smaller dreads, whereas a bigger hook fits thicker ones.
Dreading Sponge: A specialty software used to create and tighten dreadlocks within the early phases of formation. It consists of a textured floor that aids in matting and interlocking hairs to kind 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 may well scale back flyaways and promote a extra cohesive dreadlock construction.
Further Issues:
- Needle or Hook Measurement: 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: Think about 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 arrange them to make sure a profitable interlocking course of. This 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 depart 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 may 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 may assist you concentrate on one part at a time and be certain 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. Ensure the instruments are clear and sharp to facilitate the interlocking course of. You may additionally need to use a dread wax or cream to assist lubricate the dreads and make the interlocking extra seamless.
| Interlocking Instrument | Description |
|---|---|
| Crochet Hook | A small hook-shaped software used for interlocking dreads by catching the hair and pulling it by means of the bottom of one other dread. |
| Interlocking Needle | A skinny, needle-like software with a curved tip used for interlocking dreads by poking it by means of the bottom of 1 dread and pulling the hair of one other dread by means of. |
Splitting and Wrapping Approach
The splitting and wrapping methodology is one other efficient method for interlocking dreads. Not like the palm rolling methodology, this method includes utilizing a software 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:
- Break 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 by means of 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 top: After getting wrapped the sections to the top, 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 appropriate part clockwise. |
| 3 | Pull the wrapped left part by means of the middle of the dreadlock and maintain it securely. |
| 4 | Take the appropriate part and wrap it over the left part clockwise, wrapping in the identical course as earlier than. |
| 5 | Pull the wrapped proper part by means of 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 top of the dreadlock with a rubber band or string to stop unraveling. |
The splitting and wrapping method is good for creating dreadlocks of varied 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 methodology is a extensively 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 is dependent 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 basis.
- Pull by means of: Hook the tip of the crochet hook into the bottom of the second dreadlock.
- Hook the hair: Rigorously pull the hair by means of 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 acceptable measurement to 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 could break once you pull them by means of. Apply a moisturizing spray to stop this.
Stress and Tightness
When interlocking dreads, it is very important obtain the appropriate steadiness between stress and tightness. If the dreadlocks are too free, they are going to be liable to unraveling. If they’re too tight, they will trigger ache and injury to the hair. The best stress is one that’s cosy however not constricting.
To seek out the appropriate stress, begin by interlocking the dreads flippantly. Then, progressively improve the strain till the dreads really feel safe and the hair is not free. Make sure to test the strain recurrently and regulate it as wanted.
The next desk supplies a information to the totally different ranges of stress:
| Degree of Stress | Description |
|---|---|
| Mild | The dreads are free and simple to maneuver. |
| Medium | The dreads are cosy however not constricting. |
| Tight | The dreads are very tight and troublesome to maneuver. |
The best stage of stress will fluctuate relying on the person’s hair sort and preferences. It is very important experiment to seek out the appropriate stress 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 stop them from unraveling. You should use any coloration of thread or yarn you want, however ensure it is sturdy 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 manner 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 take care of them to maintain them wholesome and looking out their greatest. Listed here are a number of ideas:
Washing
Dreadlocks needs to be washed recurrently, however not too usually. Washing them too usually can strip them of their pure oils, which may result in dryness and breakage. Purpose to clean your dreadlocks each 2-3 weeks, or extra usually in the event that they get soiled or smelly.
Drying
After washing your dreadlocks, it is vital to dry them completely. Air drying is one of the simplest ways to dry dreadlocks, however should you’re quick on time, you need to use a blow dryer on a low warmth setting. Make sure to maintain the blow dryer not less than 6 inches away out of your dreadlocks to keep away from injury.
Retwisting
Retwisting is a strategy of tightening the dreadlocks and preserving them in place. Retwisting needs to be accomplished each 4-6 weeks, or extra usually in case your dreadlocks are free 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 way in which to the tip, after which safe it with a knot.
Moisturizing
Dreadlocks can turn out to be dry and brittle if they are not moisturized recurrently. To moisturize your dreadlocks, you need to use a pure oil, comparable to coconut oil or olive oil. Merely apply the oil to your dreadlocks and therapeutic massage it in. You can too use a industrial dreadlock moisturizer.
Crochet
Crochet is a software that can be utilized to tighten and neaten dreadlocks. Crochet can be utilized to restore free 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 by means of the hook. Proceed crocheting the dreadlock all the way in which to the tip, after which safe it with a knot.
Variations on Interlocking
Single Interlocking
That is essentially the most primary and customary methodology of interlocking. It includes utilizing a crochet hook to loop one dread over the opposite.
Double Interlocking
This methodology is much like single interlocking, however includes looping the dread over itself twice as an alternative of as soon as. This creates a stronger and safer connection.
Triple Interlocking
That is essentially the most time-consuming and sophisticated variation of interlocking, however it additionally creates the strongest and most sturdy connection. It includes looping the dread over itself thrice as an alternative of a couple of times.
Palm Rolling
This methodology makes use of the palms of the fingers to roll the dreads collectively. It’s a much less exact methodology than utilizing a crochet hook, however it may be extra comfy and might create a extra pure look.
Intersection Interlocking
This methodology includes interlocking two dreads which might be crossed over one another. This creates a extra complicated and fascinating look.
Crochet Hook Interlocking
This methodology makes use of a crochet hook to loop the dreads collectively. It’s a extra exact methodology than palm rolling, however it may be extra time-consuming and might injury the dreads if not accomplished correctly.
Twisting
This methodology includes twisting the dreads collectively by hand. It’s a much less exact methodology than utilizing a crochet hook, however it may be extra comfy 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 an alternative of as soon as. |
| Triple Interlocking | Looping the dread over itself thrice as an alternative of a couple of times. |
| Palm Rolling | Rolling the dreads along with the palms of the fingers. |
| Intersection Interlocking | Interlocking two dreads which might 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 Frequent Points
8. My dreads are unraveling.
Doable causes:
| Trigger | Resolution | |
|---|---|---|
| New progress not being interlocked | Interlock new progress recurrently to stop unraveling. | |
| Dreads not being interlocked tightly sufficient | Interlock dreads extra tightly to safe them. | |
| Over-moisturizing or utilizing harsh chemical substances | Keep away from extreme moisturizing or utilizing harsh chemical substances 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 injury | Search skilled session to handle any underlying hair injury which may be contributing to unraveling. |
| Variety of Dreadlocks | Time Required | Effort Degree |
|---|---|---|
| 1-10 | 1-2 hours | Straightforward |
| 11-20 | 2-4 hours | Reasonable |
| 21-30 | 4-6 hours | Onerous |
| 31+ | 6+ hours | Very Onerous |
Advantages of Interlocking Dreads
Interlocking dreads is a technique of sustaining dreadlocks by utilizing a crochet hook or interlocking software to twist and lock the strands collectively. It presents 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.
- Decreased 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.
- Decreased Shrinkage: Interlocking prevents dreads from shrinking and permits them to take care of 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 will be styled in numerous 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 mild stress to the hair roots, stimulating progress and stopping hair loss.
- Decreased 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 methodology is commonly used to restore damaged locs, in addition to to create new locs or add size to current ones. Interlocking will be accomplished on all hair varieties, 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 can too use your fingers, however this methodology is just not as efficient.
In case you are utilizing a crochet hook or needle-nose pliers, insert the software into the middle of one of many locs and pull it by means of to create a loop. Then, insert the software into the middle of the second loc and pull it by means of 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’ll be able to then use a crochet hook or needle-nose pliers to tighten the knot if desired.
As soon as the locs are interlocked, you need to use a locking gel or wax to assist preserve them in place. You can too wrap the locs with yarn or thread so as to add coloration or design.
Individuals Additionally Ask About How To Interlock Dreads
How usually ought to I interlock my dreads?
The frequency with which it’s worthwhile to interlock your dreads will rely on how briskly your hair grows and the way properly you keep your locs. Typically, you must 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 also pose some dangers, together with:
