How to Install Single Ended Dreads.

This tutorial will show you how to install synthetic single ended dreads (loop dreads).

There are two main types of synthetic dreads:- Single ended dreads are a single dread with a loop at the top & Double ended dread one long section of hair that is dreaded at each end with small undreaded section in the middle, which is folded in half when installed.

I will show you the simplest way to install your dreads, while giving good scalp coverage.  Install dreads like a professional with this simple tutorial.. 

Synthetic single ended dreads aprox 50-60, a tail or sectioning comb, snag bands (elastics), sectioning clips, and a latch hook (crochet needle).

Getting the sections right is vital to a flawless dread install
It's worth taking your time and getting it right. There are several ways to section the hair for dread or braid (plait) installs. I am going to show you the most common sectioning pattern (brick layer pattern), it's also very simple.

Starting at the nape of the neck, section off a row from ear to ear, clip the rest of the hair up out of the way, (pic 1).

I like to make my rows aprox 1cm, you can of course make them larger or smaller.

Next divide your row into squares (pic 2), I make them 1 x 1 cm. Leave one square loose and clip the rest out of the way.

Take your latch hook and thread a single ended dread onto it (pic 3). Then pull the hair through the dread (pic 4 & 5).

Take the natural hair and split it in two (pic 6), this gives you three sections that you can braid, keep the tension and braid, when you reach the end secure with an elastic band (pic 7).

Repeat along the row (you will have aprox 6-8 dreads in this row).

With the first row complete (pic 1).  It's time to start the second row.

Once again section off a row from ear to ear, the same width as your first (1cm for me) and sub divide into squares, this is where the brick layers pattern is introduced (pic 2).

Don't line your squares up with your first row, take your top square into the centre of the square below (pic 3). This helps your dreads sit flatly against the head and hides your scalp.

Repeat this with all the squares in the row.

When you have completed the second row it should look something like this, pic 1.

Continue working in rows, remembering to make the square above end in the centre of the square below (Brick layers pattern).

Until you have covered the whole head.  If you wish to leave a fringe / bangs then do so, its personal preference.

When you have finished the dreads should cover all of the scalp as shown in pic 2.

It does take practice and patience.

Finshed......Good luck......Double Ended Dread install tutorial also available.