Creating jumbo box braids: A DIY guide
Ready to go big and bold with your natural hair? Then step this way to learn how to create jumbo box braid styles with our expert guide!
When it comes to natural hair, it’s easy to get into a styling rut. Always torn between wanting a protective hairstyle and wearing your ‘fro out and proud, creating a look that suits both you and your personality can seem near impossible at times! However, if you hate to compromise on style, why not combine the high-impact finish of an afro with the taming powers of a plait, and get a set of jumbo box braids?
Okay, so rocking huge box braids might sound intimidating, but in reality they’re super chic and totally versatile! Workable in half-up ‘dos, buns, or even just ultra long, jumbo box braids styles come in all different shapes. But before you even try one of these hairstyles, you need to learn how to weave your jumbo box braids like a pro…
Jumbo braids hairstyles: How to weave them at home
Step 1: Prep your natural hair.
Before creating any jumbo box braids hairstyles, we suggest using the LOC, LOCO or LCO method (liquid, oil and cream) to hydrate your mane.
For liquid, give the TIGI S-Factor Papaya Leave-In Moisture Spray a go! And for oil and cream, we suggest trying the Dove Advanced Hair Series Pure Care Dry Oil Nourishing Treatment and the Dove Advanced Hair Series Quench Absolute Crème Serum.
Step 2: Prepare your hair extensions.
Jumbo box braid styles require bigger sections of hair, so adjust the thickness of each strip to your liking. Some women also like to pull the ends of their extensions so they fall more naturally when braided.
Step 3: Section your natural hair.
Next, use your comb to divide your hair into 4 equal sections (splitting hair in half vertically and horizontally). Individually clip each section, so it’s out of your way for now. Release one of the lower sections near your neck. Gently use your comb to create a horizontal parting (roughly 2cm wide) above the nape of your neck.
You can also opt to refine your sections with a hair wax, such as TIGI S-Factor Creamy Molding Wax, to clean up the edges.
Step 4: Split each small grid.
Clip the top half of this section again, so it doesn’t get your way when you start plaiting. Divide the loose section of hair vertically, to create an even box-like parting. You should have a section of hair roughly 2 cm x 2 cm (your first ‘box’!).
Step 5: Anchor your braid with a twist.
When creating huge box braids it’s important to ensure you start with a secure base for your braid. Beginning with the right side, hold the hair snugly and start twisting in one direction, about 2 or 3 times, before repeating the twist on the left side.
Step 6: Begin braiding.
Now that your weave is nicely secured into your natural hair, split that entire grid into 3, as you would with a traditional 3-strand plait. Braid until you reach the ends of you hair and secure with an elastic band. Continue to weave your hair until you have braided your whole head.
Step 7: Apply more oil.
Jumbo box braids styles often already have a nice sheen to them due to the extensions. However, for even more standout shine, a few extra pumps of the Dove Pure Care Dry Oil Nourishing Treatment wouldn’t go amiss.
Nailed how to weave box braids and now looking for some jumbo braids hairstyles to rock? Then take a look at all the incredible ways you can work the look with our jumbo box braids hairstyles round-up!