Make Your Own Sewing Patterns

Instructions

Create Your Own Personalized Sewing Pattern

1. Draw two perpendicular lines on a sheet of paper, with the vertical line as close to the left edge of the page as possible and the horizontal line flush with the bottom of the page. This is the basis from which you will fill in the lines that define your own sewing patterns.

2. Measure your center frontline and waistline. Your center frontline runs from the apex of your rib cage (at the bottom of the throat) down to your navel. Make sure to measure your waistline at its widest point to make sure the garment you end up making will fit properly.

3. Note your waist measurement on a piece of paper. On the page with the two perpendicular lines, mark the length of your center front line, noting the measurement on the actual page and keeping it to scale if your paper is not large enough to represent the actual length.

4. Measure your side front line. This measurement allows you to determine the position of your shoulder seam. To do this, start at the same place you began when you measured your center front line, but instead measure the distance from there to side of your neck. Add this measurement, called the side front line, to your sheet with the perpendicular lines.

5. Position your measuring tape at your shoulder seam and measure the distance from your shoulder seam to your waist. Note this measurement on the side front line, which is now represented on your sheet of paper.

6. Determine your shoulder seam by measuring from your center front line to the outside of the shoulder seam. Draw the line onto your sheet. Repeat, starting from the waist point of the center front line, moving to the shoulder seam. Draw this line onto your sheet as well.

7. Find out your side seam requirements by measuring the width of your body. Beginning from the center front line, measure across to your side seam at both the chest and waist, drawing both lines onto your sheet.

8. Finish the side seam determination by starting halfway between your chest and waist. Measure from there to your side seam, following it up vertically. Draw the line onto your sheet.

9. Fill in the neck and arm (armsceye) curves by joining the side front line to the center front line at the neck and to the side seam at the arm. Your pattern can now be traced onto sewing pattern paper, and you can pin it together and try it on to ensure a proper fit.

10. Purchase a book to refer to as you work if you are unsure proceed at any point. Donald H. McCunn's 'Make Sewing Patterns' (see Resources below) is an easy-to-follow favorite.

Tags: front line, center front, center front line, shoulder seam, your sheet, side seam

Neutralize Your Hair After A Home Hair Permanent

Neutralize Your Hair After a Home Hair Permanent

A successful home permanent depends on the way you neutralize your hair. This step also helps protect the hair's health. Neutralizing lotion is contained in a home hair permanent kit and acts to harden hair that's softened during the chemical step.

Instructions

1. Check bottle directions on the neutralizer solution. These will tell you the recommended length of time to leave the solution on your hair and the number of times to neutralize. Some home hair permanents have two applications of solution and some recommend reserving some of the liquid to work through the hair after rods are removed.

2. Determine the number of times to neutralize.

3. Blot each permanent rod to remove all excess moisture. Press a towel to each rod, and then put the towel around your shoulders as extra protection for your clothing when you apply the neutralizer.

4. Apply a narrow strip of cotton around the hairline. Position the cotton at the base of your neck, and also at the hairline moving toward the forehead. Tuck ends in securely.

5. Snip the top of the bottle and neutralize by applying solution to the hair on each rod, moving from one end of the rod to the other and making sure you get both the top and bottom of the rolled hair.

6. Remove rods and rinse the hair as directed. Apply additional solution to further neutralize if your kit has this step.

Tags: After Home, After Home Hair, Hair After, Hair After Home, Hair Permanent, home hair

Strengthen Kinky Hair

Allow your hair to breathe, and avoid wearing it up in a tight ponytail.

Keep your locks shiny and manageable by strengthening tightly woven kinky hair with specific products designed to pamper such tresses. Some of the same hair care methods used for African American hair also apply to permed kinks on others. Hair can become damaged from pulling and tugging, along with using the wrong types of brushes and beauty products. Take the steps needed to keep kinky hair in shape, so you can always look your best.

Instructions

1. Buy shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair.

Apply a quarter-sized amount of shampoo when washing your hair, and gently massage it into your scalp as you work your way down. Rinse thoroughly, and then apply a liberal amount of conditioner. "Women's Health" magazine says curls need moisture to promote shine and softness. Wash your hair daily or every other day if it becomes dry, depending on what's right for your hair. "Ladies Home Journal" magazine recommends washing African American hair once a week, because this type of hair is naturally drier.

2. Run a wide-tooth comb gently through your washed tresses, and never squeeze or scrunch your hair. "Real Simple" magazine says this will only break up the curls and create a frizzy look. Instead, attach a diffuser to the end of your hair dryer, and lightly lift and cup sections of hair with your hand. Keep the fan speed on low with a medium to high heat setting.

3. Take biotin supplements each day. The University of Maryland says biotin helps maintain healthy hair, skin, eyes and liver.

4. Apply a strengthening treatment to your hair once a week, and leave it on for 10 minutes or longer, unless the directions specify otherwise. "Women's Health" magazine says curly hair becomes weaker than other hair textures, so it's vital to use products to strengthen locks. Buy a strengthening hair treatment or mask designed for curly hair.

Tags: your hair, curly hair, magazine says, African American, African American hair, American hair, designed curly

Get Wavy Hair Without Products

Get wavy hair without using styling products.

People with straight hair often wish for wavy hair, which is easy to do by wet-setting your hair. Wet setting is when you shape your hair as it dries, which means styling products are not necessary. There are various ways to wet set for wavy hair. Rag rolling produces soft, natural-looking waves. Braiding will give you kinkier waves. Pin curling creates retro curls in short hair, but when used on long hair it will create long waves. These processes are normally done overnight so your hair can dry into waves as you sleep.

Instructions

Rag Rolling

1. Cut the fabric into strips about 1 inch wide and 1.5 feet long. The number of strips you will need depends on how thick your hair is and how tight you want your waves--the more strips you use, the tighter your waves will be. Most people will need about 10 strips for soft waves.

2. Begin with damp hair. Comb your hair to remove any tangles and part your hair how you want it to be when your hair is wavy (usually your natural part).

3. Separate a lock of hair and comb through to ensure that there are no tangles. The size of the lock will determine the size of the waves. For soft waves, use a 2-inch lock (use a smaller lock for tighter waves or a larger one for softer waves). Press one fabric strip in the middle (lengthwise) against either side of the bottom of the lock of hair.

4. Roll the fabric with the hair (similar to how you roll a hot roller with your hair). Roll the hair tight enough that the hair can stay rolled on its own after a few inches, but not so tight that it pulls on your roots. The fabric will collapse as you roll. When you have rolled the fabric to the roots, tie the fabric in place with a knot.

5. Continue this process until you have rolled all of your hair.

6. Keep your hair in the rag rollers overnight, or until your hair is dry. When your hair is dry, untie the knots and unroll your hair.

Braiding

7. Begin with damp hair. Comb your hair to remove any tangles and part your hair how you want it to be when your hair is wavy (usually your natural part).

8. Separate a lock of hair and comb through to ensure that there are no tangles. The size of the lock will determine the size of the waves. For soft waves, use a 2-inch lock. You can use a smaller lock for tighter waves or a larger one for softer waves, but do not choose a lock so large that it will be difficult to braid.

9. Separate the lock into three sections. Begin at the root of the lock and braid it down until you cannot make a braid any more. If your hair is layered, you may have to stop an inch or two above the total bottom of the lock. Fasten the braid with an elastic.

10. Keep your hair in these braids overnight, or until your hair is dry. When your hair is dry, undo the braids.

Pin Curling

11. Begin with damp hair. Comb your hair to remove any tangles and part your hair how you want it to be when your hair is wavy (usually your natural part).

12. Separate a lock of hair and comb through to ensure that there are no tangles. The size of the lock will determine the size of the waves. For soft, medium-size curls, use a 1 inch lock (use a smaller lock for tighter waves or a larger one for softer waves).

13. Wind the bottom of the lock once or twice around your index finger to form a circle. Be sure not to twist the hair as you wind it. Use your thumb and index finger to pin the circle in place. Carefully slip your index finger out of the circle while still holding the circle in place with your thumb and index finger.

14. Wind the curl up the rest of the way to your roots. Place the curl flat against your head, and pin it in place with a pin curl clip. You may need a second clip to fully secure the curl. If you do, create an X with the two clips to keep the curl in place.

15. Keep your hair in these curls overnight, or until your hair is dry. When your hair is dry, undo the curls.

Tags: your hair, index finger, lock hair, Separate lock, Begin with

Short Africanamerican Hairstyles

You've spent some time growing your hair long, but you're ready for a change. If you fear cutting your hair because you think short hair is unattractive or lacks styling options, you'll find that's not the case. African-American short hairstyles can be stylish and attractive for either gender. There are many options, and they can be customized to suit your face, your lifestyle and your personality.

Women's Hairstyles

One of the most popular haircuts among black women is the short layered cut. Your stylist should be able to simply layer your hair all over the head. This cut is even more striking when the layers are curled slightly, giving it some lift on the ends.

Another choice is a cut similar to R&B singer Rhianna's style. Have your hair cut into very short layers, and tapered in the back. Then have your stylist razor cut layers in the front. These are a few inches longer than the rest of the hair, and hang down over one eye. The style is sexy and easy to whip into place in the morning.

Men's Hairstyles

According to lovetoknow.com, there are many different hairstyles for men of color. Buzz cuts are popular. This style features hair cut to half an inch or so. Your barber can taper your hair down to the nape, or add lines and other shapes.

Cornrows are another popular style for short men's hair. Your hair, however, must be an inch in length to have it braided. Shaved styles are similar to buzz cuts, but shorter. Geometric patterns will be even clearer in this style.

Maintenance

See your stylist for maintenance every six to eight weeks. Some haircuts, like the shaved style, may require you to get a trim more often. Women may have to have their hair trimmed less often, but they usually spend more time styling than men.

To keep your short hairstyle looking its best, use hair scarves (men can use do-rags) at night. Simply tie it over your hair and go to bed.

Special hair scarves contain a leave-in conditioner that will not only protect your hair, but leave it feeling soft and manageable. They cost a bit more than a regular silk scarf, but they are worth the investment.

Tags: your hair, hair scarves, short hair, your hair, your stylist

Wedding Hairstyles For Flower Girls

Doing up the flower girl

All eyes will be focused on the flower girl as she prepares the aisle for the bride's entrance. From her dress to her hairstyle, she will be admired by everyone attending the wedding. Choose a hairstyle that complements her age, length of hair and the wedding theme. These age-appropriate wedding hairstyles for flower girls are sure to create lots of smiles.

Hairstyles for Infants

Select stretchy headbands, floppy sun hats and decorative hair clips for very young flower girls. Headbands that fit snugly are more likely to stay in place when the baby reaches for her head. A floppy hat may be a good option if the baby is just starting to grow hair and coverage is sparse. If the baby has a lot of hair, try decorative clips. All of these items can be decorated with flowers, ribbons or other elements that reflect the wedding theme.

Hairstyles for Toddlers

Depending on the cooperation of the toddler, simple clips with silk flowers attached or cubic zirconia-encrusted barrettes will add an elegant look to a short hairstyle. If the toddler has long hair and will accept more styling, try simple braids or a quick twist secured with a decorative hair clip.

Hairstyles for Young Girls

Young girls are able to tolerate a longer session at the hair salon. Try updos or buns infused with flowers and ribbons for long hairstyles. Girls with longer hair look great in braids woven with ribbons or decorated with cubic zirconia-tipped bobby pins. A simple ponytail topped with an oversized bow looks great if there's also a large bow on the flower girl's dress.

For young girls who don't want much fuss, try a small tiara with attached combs. Secure the tiara with additional bobby pins. A small floral halo set upon the girl's head is a classic look for all hair lengths. Choose flowers that coordinate with the bridesmaids' bouquets, and accent with small bows that coordinate with the wedding colors. Add ribbons that coordinate with the wedding colors to the back of the halo so they flow down the girl's back.

Tags: coordinate with, flower girl, that coordinate, that coordinate with, bobby pins, coordinate with wedding

Cool Party Hairstyles

Curls are a classic yet cool party hairstyle idea.

Your hairstyle is an integral part of your overall look for a party. Formal parties call for fancy up-dos, whereas low-key parties require more fun and cool hairstyles. Whichever cool hairstyle you decide on for a party, make sure you test it out beforehand. Creating a new hairstyle takes practice and it might take a few tries for it to look good.

Loose Bun

A loose bun is an edgy take on the classic up-do, and works well for informal parties. Start with your hair in a ponytail. It could be low at the nape of your neck, to the side behind your ear, or high on your head. Wrap the hair into a loose bun and secure with bobby pins. Don't worry if strands of hair fall out--this contributes to the informal style. Hairspray helps the bun stay in place. Choose a synthetic flower clip that matches your outfit and clip it next to your bun for extra style. If your hair is too short for a messy bun, consider a clip-on hairpiece.

Long Curls

If you're lucky enough to have long, healthy hair, creating loose curls or waves is a great way to look cool at a party. Use your curling iron with the clamp to make tighter curls, or without the clamp for looser waves. Wrap a piece of hair around the barrel of your curling iron and hold it for five to 10 seconds, then release to form a wave. Spray each section lightly with hairspray before curling to make your style last. Separate your curls using a small amount of pomade for a cooler, less formal look.

Flick

For those with choppy or razored layers, a flicky hairstyle shows off your hairstyle well. Spray your hair with a heat-protecting product such as hair serum. Run a flat iron through small-to-medium sections of hair, twisting your wrist away from your face slightly when you reach the ends of your hair. Flick your ends out sooner if you want them to really stand out. Finish with hairspray to hold your look for the entire party. This style works on long or short hair with razored layers.

Tags: your hair, cool party, curling iron, hair with, razored layers, with hairspray

Perm My Hair Without Getting Chemical Burns

Perms, normally referred to as "relaxers," are one of the ways to permanently straighten coarse and curly hair. Depending on the hair texture, relaxers can last anywhere from six weeks to two months and must be constantly reapplied to keep the hair straight. Constant application of a relaxer may cause chemical burns over time, but there are some simple applications to prevent chemical burns altogether.

Instructions

1. Protect your scalp and hairline with an over-the-counter hair product such as hair oil, hair grease or a light conditioner. Apply the product around the perimeter of your head, scalp and ears. Be careful not to use too much product. Protecting the scalp will slow down or prevent the effects of chemical burns.

2. Don't scratch. Avoid scratching your head at for at least four days prior to applying your perm. Perms/relaxers usually cause dry scalp. Instead of scratching, rub the area instead.

3. Don't wash your hair. Avoid washing your hair at least three to four days prior to applying a perm.

4. Avoid exercising the day before a perm. Sweating from exercising opens your pores and may cause chemical burns.

5. Wash the perm out, if burning. If you are experiencing a burn-like sensation on your scalp, immediately wash out the chemical with neutralizing shampoos.

Tags: chemical burns, cause chemical, cause chemical burns, days prior, days prior applying, four days, four days prior

Sharpen An Andis

Andis is a a manufacturer of clippers and trimmers. Its broad portfolio of products is mostly for cutting hair whether professionally or for home use. With repeated use, the blade of an Andis clipper or trimmer will get dull. To get the same performance from the product, the blade will need to be sharpened. It is no use sharpening the blade of a damagedAndis clipper or trimmer. Sharpening extends the lifeand usability of an Andis blade.

Instructions

1. Turn off the Andis.Clean the blades of the Andis with a soft cloth. Even though the blades are dull, wipe them carefully.

2. Remove the screws attaching the blades to the motorized razor with a screwdriver.

3. Remove the blades of the Andis.Return only the moving blade to the springs

4. Sharpen the Andis blade on the blade sharpener. This is done by moving the sharpener gently but up and down the face of the blade.

5. Stop sharpening the blade only when it shines and looks sharp.Touch the teeth of the blade gently to ensure that it is sharp.

6. Remove the guide from the blade.Work the guide blade up and down the face of the blade sharpener. This should go on for a minute until the guide blade is sharp.

7. Re-screw the blade back into the guide.Screw the blades back into the Andis and reassemble.

8. Ensure the blades are properly arranged and functioning before cutting again with the Andis.

Tags: Andis blade, back into, blade sharpener, blade sharpener This, blades Andis

Fix A Shirt That Gaps

Gaps between buttons can mean your shirt is too tight.

Gaps between the buttons of a shirt are a definite fashion don't. Unsightly gaps can make you look bigger than you are and can make your clothes seem poorly made. For women, button-down shirts often gap at the chest area and can expose the bra, especially if the woman is smaller in the shoulders than the chest. Men's shirts often gap around the belly due to extra weight carried there. Whatever the area or reason, there are tips and tricks that can help you fix a shirt that gaps.

Instructions

1. Try on the shirt before you buy it to ensure that it fits well in the area where your shirts are prone to puckering. If the shirt fits in the chest and belly, but is very big elsewhere, have the shirt tailored to fit.

2. Stick double-sided fashion or clothing tape on the gaping fabric to fix the gap. Or, for a temporary solution, pin the fabric closed with a safety pin.

3. Sew a strip of Velcro between the buttons where the shirt gaps for a more permanent fix. You can also sew the shirt closed between the two buttons where it gaps the most to solve the problem for good.

Tags: between buttons, between buttons where, buttons where, Gaps between, Gaps between buttons, shirts often

Silk Flower Pin Ideas

Silk flowers are not just for planters.

Silk flower pins were fashion accessories in the 1920s, and as most fashion items do, their popularity has risen and fallen with the times. Modern silk flower pins are larger in size then their 1920's counterpart and enjoyed renewed fashion cache in the late 1990s and 2000s due to a television show which featured a style-maven character who wore silk flower pins ideas with panache.

Placement on Clothing

Place a silk flower high upon a blouse.

Silk flower pins are ideal for placing on clothing but some areas work better than others. The best places to pin a silk flower onto clothing include near the shoulder, and at the waist. Try pinning a silk flower pin onto the hip area of a young dancer's tutu to make it even more adorable.

Top it Off

Perk up a plain hat with silk flowers.

Hats are ideal places to place silk flower pins. Top off any hat style of with a cluster of flowers along the side brim.

Lovely Locks

Sarah Jessica Parker played a fashion-maven that increased the popularity of silk flower pins.

Pin a silk flower pin onto a headband, aligning the flower with the far right or far left of your face. For use in hair, select a flower that is not terribly large and one which will lie somewhat flat upon the head. Be sure to match the color of the silk flower to the clothes you are wearing.

Feet That Flirt

Funky feet

Try jazzing up a pair of sandals or flip flops with a pair of silk flower pins. Either pin a single, large silk flower onto the shoe area near the toes or remove the pin from the flower head and hot-glue the arrangement to shoes for a fun look.

Cute Curtains

Hold curtains back with silk flower pins.

Randomly pin a few silk flower pins onto plain, solid drapes for a touch of decorating whimsy. Add floral flair to shower curtains by pinning silk flower pins across the top of the shower curtain, where ring holders are on the curtain rod. For window curtains, pull curtains back and use silk flower pins to work as tie-backs.

Tags: flower pins, silk flower, silk flower pins, flower onto, silk flower onto, silk flower pins

Prom Hairstyles For Africanamericans

Choose a prom hairstyle that complements your hair type and personality.

Wearing stylish hair to the prom is a requirement for the modern teenage girl. While African-American hair is fragile and sensitive to breakage, the varying textures of black hair present opportunities for prom hairstyles that feature soft waves and tight curls. For this prom season, teens don't have to sacrifice style or sparkle if they choose chic or classic hairstyles.

Long and Loose Waves

Work a styling cream into wet and relaxed hair to add moisture and prevent frizz. Blow-dry hair on a medium heat setting using a dryer with a comb attachment. Using medium sized hot rollers or a curling iron, curl two-inch sections of hair. Rake your fingers through the hair to release spiral curls, allowing a few pieces to fall around the hairline. Add a touch of hair spray to hold.

Curly Ringlets

Wear wild and tousled curls to complement a flowing long dress. After shampooing and conditioning hair, apply a lightweight leave-in gel. Apply the gel to the tips of the ends first; then, starting at the roots, rake an additional dollop of gel throughout the remaining strands of hair. Blow-dry hair using a diffuser on a low heat setting. To finish the style, run your fingers through your dry strands to separate curls. Pin a sparkling brooch into your hair to add a jeweled accessory to the style.

Chic Ponytails

If you have long hair that is relaxed, wear a chic and sleek ponytail. Apply a heat-activated hair cream to wet hair. Rake the product through your hair to coat the strands evenly. Dry your hair on a medium heat setting using a blow dryer and a round brush. Place a dollop of styling cream on your hands and apply it product to your dry strands. Use your fingers to pull your hair into a ponytail and secure with a covered elastic band. Smooth flyaways with a few dots of styling cream applied to your fingers. Accent the ponytail with a jeweled headband for the prom.

Tags: your hair, your fingers, heat setting, styling cream, Blow-dry hair, fingers through

Inexpensive Things To Do For A Sweet Sixteen

Casual parties are fun and won't leave you broke.

A Sweet Sixteen party marks the transition from girl to young adult. While the party to celebrate this special occasion should be memorable, it does not have to cost a fortune. By combining your time and talents, the birthday girl's likes, and a room full of her friends, you will throw a Sweet Sixteen party that she will remember for years to come.

.

Slumber Party

For a slumber party, offer a snack buffet to keep party guests energized since there won't be much slumber. Plan a spa night and have party guests do each others' hair and makeup along with manicures and pedicures. Have a camera handy for the finished results. For party favors, consider hair accessories, makeup, nail polish or bubble bath. To wind things up, have a favorite breakfast planned for late the next morning. If a spa night doesn't interest her, plan a movie evening or late-night bowling.

Tiki Party

If the birthday girl has a summer birth date and wants a casual party, plan a tiki party. These parties don't have to be overly elaborate. To cut costs, plan just one fancy non-alcoholic party drink; think coconut, pineapple or lime. Cut up three or four kinds of in-season fresh fruit, add some cheese and crackers, and serve with toothpicks for an appetizer that won't break the bank. Grill hotdogs and hamburgers or other favorite food. Check out the dollar or discount store for candles for lighting and artificial flowers. Place the artificial flowers in bowls or string for leis. Plan some dance music. Ask guests to dress with the theme in mind. Put some sand in a children's wading pool and use it to hold tiki torches or candles.

Tea Party

For a quiet celebration, check out thrift stores and garage sales for fancy tea cups and saucers. They don't have to match; a variety adds charm. Set a pretty table with a tablecloth and offer several kinds of teas. Plan some sandwiches and use cookie cutters to cut the bread. Offer a selection of fancy pastries or cookies. Play charades or other favorite games. Ask guests to wear their most Victorian outfit. Purchase an inexpensive but nicely illustrated book in keeping with the tea party theme and ask guests to sign in and write birthday greetings.

Tips To Save on Any Theme

Planning ahead will save you the most money. Make invitations for the party; these can be as simple or elaborate as your time and skill level permit. Plan your menu and purchase items on sale and keep them in the freezer. Prowl dollar stores for party favors. If you don't want to hold the party at your home, check churches or community centers for an inexpensive room. Many of these locations work well for a Saturday afternoon party. For summer locations, consider state or local parks.

Tags: Sweet Sixteen, artificial flowers, birthday girl, other favorite, party favors

Hairstyles For Elementary Cheerleaders

Hair can get damaged while cheerleaders bounce around.

Girls often have their first cheerleading experience during elementary school. Whether cheering for little league football or basketball, cheerleading squads are available for girls ages 6 to 10. Finding age-appropriate uniforms and hairstyles for the spirited squad can be challenging. Hairstyles should help keep the girls' hair out of their face while they move around and make them look their age.

Classic Ponytail

The classic ponytail is a tried and true choice for young cheerleaders. The style can be worn low or high on the girls' heads. Ponytails keep the cheerleaders' hair back, which can help them see during stunts. A ponytail can be accented with bows, ribbons or other team color decorations. Secure the ponytail with an elastic band. Don't over-tighten, which can cause the hair around the band to break. Secure any loose pieces with bobby pins.

Curly Ponytail

A twist on the classic ponytail is the curly ponytail. Cheerleading squads often sport a uniform look with ringlet curled ponytails. Each girl pulls her hair back into a ponytail and uses a curling iron, sponge rollers or hot rollers to create bouncy curls. The curls bounce while the cheerleaders move and create a nice visual effect. The curls also shorten the hair hanging from the ponytail which helps keep it out of the way while they are cheering.

French Braids

A youthful hairstyle for elementary cheerleaders is the double French braid. This style works well for little girls with wavy, curly or thicker hair. It keeps the hair neatly styled and controlled. Double French braids are styled by dividing the hair in the middle of the scalp and creating a French braid on each side of the hair. Tie ribbons or bows onto the ends of each braid.

Bun

A ballerina-type bun can secure hair while cheering. A neat bun creates a very sleek look for a cheerleader, while a looser bun can be wild. Buns can also accommodate team-colored ribbons and bows. The hair is completely wrapped up in a bun, which can help keep it from getting damaged while bouncing and tumbling. A bun can be worn on the top of the head or at the nape of the neck.

Tags: damaged while, French braid, hair back, help keep, ribbons bows, which help

Keep A Hair Snood On

Use hairpins to keep the snood on your head.

You might recognize snoods from medieval period films, civil war photographs or renaissance fairs. Snoods are netted hair bags, similar to hair nets but without elastic. Plain or decorative styles still exist. Most snoods are worn for decorative purposes, for costumes, or to keep the hair protected while cleaning or painting. Though snoods are easy to wear, in some circumstances you might want to pin them in place to keep them from falling off your head.

Instructions

1. Spray hairspray on a brush or comb. Run the brush or comb through your hair until it is smooth. Tuck the ends of your hair into the snood. Lift the snood toward the crown of your head, gathering your hair into the netting.

2. Insert a U-shaped hairpin into your hair, with one prong over the edge of the snood and the other in your hair. Insert five hairpins into your hair around the top and sides of the snood. Use additional pins for thick or unruly hair.

3. Spray hairspray on your hand and smooth it over the top of your hair and around your hairline to tame flyway hairs.

Tags: your hair, your head, brush comb, hair around, hair into

Learn Competitive Cheerleading & Dances

While cheerleading originated as a way to show spirit and support for other athletic teams, it has developed into a competitive sport with squads and individuals competing for championship titles and prize money. At the high school level alone during the 2008-2009 school year, there were more than 4,700 competitive spirit squads with approximately 117,000 participants, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations. You too can become part of this sport by learning competitive cheerleading and dance.

Instructions

1. Take lessons. Enroll in dance classes to learn timing and rhythm as well as complete different types of dance moves. Find a dance class that teaches a variety of dance routines, since competitive dance competitions consist of exhibiting a choreographed routine. Participate in gymnastics to develop tumbling skills as well as increase your flexibility.

2. Attend camps. Spend your summer attending competitive cheerleading and dance camps held at colleges and universities across the U.S. Visit the website of the National Cheerleaders Association or Universal Cheerleaders Association to see camps in your area for your age group or skill level. Focus on the information being taught at camp as well as socializing, since it's important to get to know people whose squad you might join.

3. Hire a private instructor. Employ a former competitive cheerleader or dancer to serve as your private coach. Find a gym or facility to meet at regularly, and allow them to instruct you on competitive cheerleading and dance moves. Understand that the feedback and instruction they provide is important since they know what it takes to get to a competitive level.

4. Join a competitive squad. Find a squad or group in your area that competes in competitive cheerleading and dance competitions. Learn what is required to make the team, since most squads have tryouts consisting of cheer and dance tasks. Ace the tryouts to get a spot on the team, and participate in competitive cheer and dance with your squad by showing up to all practices and events.

5. Form your own squad. If no competitive cheerleading and dance groups exist in your area, start your own. Hold tryouts to find others in your area with dance and gymnastics skills. Hire a choreographer to develop your cheer and dance routines, and practice them many times before entering any competitions. Start out with local and state competitions before advancing to ones held nationally by the Universal Cheerleaders Association and other similar groups.

Tags: cheerleading dance, competitive cheerleading, competitive cheerleading dance, your area, cheer dance, Cheerleaders Association, dance competitions

Wrap Hair With A Scarf

Wrap Hair With a Scarf

Women use scarves to wrap their hair for many reasons, most commonly to protect their hair and prolong the hairstyle. Wrapping the hair protects it from the sun and wind, and prevents breakage and dryness. However, others may wear a hair wrap for health reasons. Regardless of the reason, a scarf can create a stylish, professional look. If you need ideas on wrap your hair with a scarf, here are some suggestions.

Instructions

1. Fold a squared scarf in half to form a triangle. Place the folded end of the scarf around the top portion of your forehead, and tie the other two ends at the nape of the neck.

2. Tuck in any loose portions of the scarf to create a finished look. Adjust the scarf so that it feels comfortable on your forehead. The scarf should wrap all of your hair.

3. Alternately, place a rectangular scarf over your head in such a way that one end hangs down longer than the other, and cross the ends at the nape of your neck. Take the longer end and form a rope by twisting it. Bring the twisted end over your head about 1 inch away from your hairline. Tie both ends and allow the excess material to drape over your shoulder.

4. Or place a rectangular scarf across your forehead. Take the two ends and tie them under your hair at the nape of your neck. This is a great, simple solution to keep your hair from blowing around on windy days, particularly for individuals with shoulder-length hair.

5. Regardless of which method you use, secure the scarf with hair clips. Otherwise, it'll slide off.

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Apply Makeup For A Formal Party At Noon

A formal party is a sparkling affair where you will get the chance to really shine. Choose the right dress, the most stylish shoes and don't forget about your makeup. Your makeup should look as beautiful as you do. Makeup for a formal party is usually darker and more elaborate because most formal parties are held at night. If the formal party you will be attending is at noon, you will need to adjust your formal makeup.

Instructions

1. Apply liquid or creme-to-powder foundation, using a sponge, to your face. Put on your makeup in natural light so you can see the actual color you are getting. If you need to, mix two colors of makeup to get the right color. Cover your entire face and neck with the foundation. Check your jawline for makeup lines. Blend the area in so that nothing shows. You should also apply foundation to your eye lids.

2. Open the face powder and sweep the bristles across the surface of the powder. Tap the brush stem on your wrist to knock off some of the excess powder. Then swirl the powder all over your face to set your foundation. Move from top to bottom in a circular motion. Include your neck area. Avoid getting powder in your eyes.

3. Choose a matte lip liner color that matches or nearly matches the lipstick you have chosen. Avoid deep rich reds or burgundy colors that are often selected for nighttime use. Instead select softer colors like pinks or taupe without the shine. These colors are best for daytime looks. Line the lips with the liner. If you want a fuller lip look, then line the lips slightly outside the natural line. To make lips look smaller, line just inside the natural line. Start at the top of the lip on the left and draw to the center. Then draw from the right to the center. Make a tiny "V" in the center of the lip. Then draw from the right to the center on the bottom lip. Finally, draw from the left to the center of the bottom lip.

4. Use a lip brush to apply the matte lip color to your lips. Fill in the areas that you have outlined with your lip liner. Avoid pressing your lips together and moving around your lipstick. It stays in place better with blotting.

5. Use a soft eyeshadow brush to add color to your eyelid. Let the foundation stand alone as an all-over eye color, and use a soft color that compliments your outfit for the lid. Daytime eye colors don't need to be too dramatic or bold. Save those for nighttime parties. Sweep the color on the bottom lid carefully. Apply eyeliner just above the rim of the eyelashes on the top. Do not put any eyeliner on the bottom lid. Do this for both eyes. Apply mascara to your lashes, both top and bottom.

6. Sweep a matte blush color onto your cheeks. Keep the blush color light and pretty. Avoid darker applications that should be saved for nighttime formals. Use your blush brush to stroke gently across the surface of the powder. Then sweep on the color starting at the back of the cheekbone near the ear. Sweep forward to the apple. Do this for both sides of your face.

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Wall Spackle Texture Process

A drywall trowel will create dimensional texture when applying spackle.

Wall spackle can be used to create rough and dimensional texture on walls and ceilings. Spackle, often called mud or joint compound, is a form of gypsum plaster. It comes premixed or in dry form and is then mixed with water. A variety of different types are available, from fast- to slow-drying formulas. Always practice your technique before heading straight to the wall. Spackle is difficult to remove, especially when heavily applied as texture.

Applicators

Look for specialty trowels made with a round beveled edge, often used when working with venetian and other faux finish plasters. The round edge of the trowel avoids scrape marks and lines when applying the plaster. If you cannot find a specialty tool like this, use a drywall trowel. The only difference between a drywall trowel and a faux finish trowel is that the drywall version has a 90-degree corner. You must use more care to not scrape into the wet plaster with the sharp corners. Always clean your tools often. Have a bucket of water and scrub brush handy during the work process. Dry spackle buildup can cause scrapes and crumbled areas in you finished texture.

Method

Apply the spackle to the flat edge of the trowel. Glide the trowel across your surface, at the same time applying the plaster onto the surface. The technique is similar to buttering a piece of toast. Once the plaster is applied, dip and move the plaster around to create texture. Each person will create their own texture when plastering with spackle. Just be sure you are able to recreate the process over the entire wall.

Final Coat

Roll on a primer with a long nap roller. The nap of the roller refers to how long the material around the roller is. Longer haired rollers are used for rougher textures. Apply the primer in even strokes without much pressure. Two coats are generally recommended, as the first coat absorbs the primer. After the primer coats have dried, roll on two or more coats of acrylic latex paint.

Touch Ups

Touching up your spackle texture may be necessary at some point. Sand the area and fill in any cracks or dings with joint compound. Lightly sand the joint compound once it has dried. Reapply the texture using the same tools, and closely match the existing plaster. Wait for plaster to dry then apply primer and paint.

Tags: drywall trowel, joint compound, applying plaster, dimensional texture, edge trowel, faux finish

Make A Cinderella Birthday Card

Make a Cinderella Birthday Card

Cinderella is a popular Disney movie, that started as a story long ago. The character, Cinderella, was a poor girl who lived with her mean stepmother and two stepsisters. She was forced to be the house maid, while her stepsisters were spoiled rotten. A ball was given in honor of Prince Charming, and Cinderella made an appearance thanks to her fairy godmother. Cinderella had to leave the ball at midnight, and in the rush to leave, left behind a single glass slipper. Prince Charming had every girl try on the slipper to find her. It is a story that has been called the "rags to riches" story, and is a wonderful story in the eyes of every little girl. Any girl would love to receive a Cinderella birthday card. Follow the steps below to create you own special card.

Instructions

1. Open up a blank document on an office application, such as Office Word.

2. Click on file, then scroll down and click on "Page Setup." Set the document to the landscape setting.

3. Use the left alignment feature to place your cursor to the left of the document.

4. Choose your font style and color, and type in your birthday wishes.

5. Slide a piece of cardstock into a printer. Print out the birthday card.

6. The cardstock will have the inside of the birthday card printed on it. Place the card back on the printer, with the words facing up, and close to the printer. You will have to run it through again to print "Happy Birthday" on the front of the card.

7. Open up a blank document and type birthday wishes for the front of the birthday card. This document will also need to be on the landscape setting. Click on file, then page setup to put it on the landscape setting.

8. Find a Cinderella picture online. Click on the link below in the resource section, for a great color Cinderella picture. Right-click on the picture and save it to your computer.

9. Place the cursor in the right alignment position. Type your birthday wishes.

10. Place your cursor where you want the Cinderella picture to be. Click on "Insert" at the top of the document. Scroll down to "Picture" and over to "File." Choose the Cinderella picture. It should appear on your Office document.

11. Print out your birthday card. Fold it at the center and sign the inside. You have a beautiful Cinderella birthday card for someone special.

Tags: Cinderella picture, birthday card, birthday card, birthday wishes, landscape setting

Hairstyles Of The 1920s And 1930s

Bob hairstyles of the 1920s are still popular today.

The 1920s saw a great change in styles for women that reflected their growing independence. Many women adopted the "flapper" style of shorter dresses and shorter, more boyish hairstyles at this time. After the stock market crash in 1929, the Great Depression of the 1930s ushered in a return to more feminine styles. Forced to cut costs on clothing and accessories, many women turned to more glamorous hairstyles to make a statement.

The Bob

The most popular hairstyle of the 1920s was by far the bob style worn by flappers. Hair was cut short and straight all the way around, hitting just underneath the ears. Some bob styles featured heavy blunt-cut bangs, while others featured hair that softly waved over the eyes. The bob was often referred to as the "Castle Bob," named for the ballroom dancer Irene Castle, who famously wore the style.

The bob style was a major departure from the longer, more feminine styles of previous decades, and represented a freer and more sophisticated lifestyle for women. In 1920, F. Scott Fitzgerald published a popular short story "Bernice Bobs Her Hair," which followed a heroine whose bobbed haircut transformed her into a more sophisticated, smooth-talking vamp.The bob style would see a resurgence in popularity in the 1950s, when it became known as the pageboy.

The Eton Crop

The Eton crop, named for a British boys' prep school, was also popular in the 1920s. Worn most famously by Josephine Baker, this style was cut very short all over and hugged the head tightly. Lots of oil was added to hair to enhance the shiny "wet" look of the style.

This look, and other styles that hugged the head tightly, was largely popular because they allowed women to wear cloche-style hats, which covered the entire head and hung low over the eyes. "Shingled" hair was a slightly longer version of this style that also hugged the head tightly and was cut very short at the back of a woman's neck.

Finger Waves

As women shifted back to more feminine styles in the 1930s, both short and long hairstyles prominently featured glamorous waves and curls. Finger waves were structured waves that lay close to the head. To go with a finger-wave style, bangs were side-swept, usually molded into a graceful wave over one eye, or combed straight back and off the forehead. Film star Jean Harlow famously wore a short finger-waved style in platinum blond -- a look that had many women bleaching their hair to replicate it.

Pin Curls

In addition to finger waves, women in search of more volume and glamor adopted pin-curled hairstyles. To create a pin curl, women wrapped pieces of hair around their fingers tightly and secured it with a pin at night. In the morning, the pins were removed, revealing tightly structured curls. To keep curls out of the eyes, women often parted hair in the center and pulled the front portion of hair off the face, securing it into two large rolls on each side of the head.

Tags: feminine styles, head tightly, hugged head, hugged head tightly, more feminine, more feminine styles, famously wore

Stepbystep Everyday Hairdos

For many women, whether it's a bad hair day or when inspiration is lacking, the default everyday hairstyle is the ponytail. But with a bit of effort, the basic ponytail can be transformed a more stylish look suitable for work or evening.

Teased Ponytail

Adding some fullness at the top of the head creates a sense of retro style from a simple ponytail. Create volume by applying mouse to the hair and teasing 1/2-inch sections of hair at the top of the head. Start teasing at about 3 inches from the forehead. Use a fine-toothed comb to tease the hair. Spray the teased sections with hairspray to hold. Cover the teased sections with the unteased hair from front of the head, pulling all of the hair back into a high ponytail.

Low Ponytail

A low ponytail can be a very sophisticated look when it's sleek and smooth. If your hair is curly, blow dry it straight. Make a ponytail at the nape of your neck, securing it with a hair elastic that matches your hair. Wrap a 1- to 2-inch strip of hair from the bottom of the ponytail around the hair elastic to conceal it. Secure with a bobby pin underneath the ponytail.

Banded Ponytail

Pull your hair back away from your face and secure it with a fabric headband that has rubber backing. The band should fall about 1/2 inch back from your hairline. Make a low ponytail below the headband, securing it in place with an elastic that matches your hair. Flip the bottom ends of the ponytail up and under the band, letting the ends drape over the band.

Upswept Ponytail

Apply mousse or other texturizing product to the hair and allow it to dry naturally. Make a very low, loose ponytail, beginning at about 3 to 4 inches from the nape of your neck, securing it with an elastic that matches your hair. Tuck the ends of the ponytail up into the elastic band to create a loop. Turn the loop sideways and roll it to create a very loose French twist, securing it with bobby pins. Allow tendrils of hair to fall at the hairline and temples.

Wavy Side Ponytail

Style your hair so that it falls in loose waves. If you have straight hair, use hot rollers to add curl or a texturizing spray to shape your hair into waves. If your hair is very curly, you can straighten it first with a blow dryer and then use a curling iron to create subtle waves. Make a low, loose ponytail, set slightly to one side, and secure it with a decorative clip. Pull out loose tendrils around the face for a softer look.

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Maintain A Curly Perm

Once you've purchased and applied a curly hair perm solution, maintaining it can be easy when the appropriate steps are followed. There are a variety of methods to try, but with the right amount of care, your hair will remain full and luscious with a beautiful set of bouncy curls.

Instructions

1. Make sure to allow your perm to set for at least 24 to 48 hours after application and blow dry. Never blow dry your hair completely dry, as it can create excess frizz and split ends in your perm. Instead, blow dry your hair until it is still lightly damp and gently towel dry the remaining moisture. Avoid using excess chemicals in your hair after a perm, which has already been damaged from the solution and treatment. When styling, choose a light pomade, glaze, or hair gel as opposed to hair spray or mouse, which can contain heavy amounts of alcohol.

2. Scrunch your hair daily with your fingers and use a light texturizing conditioner for further softening. When needed, wrap four long pipe cleaners together and separate pieces of your curls over the created, thicker pipe cleaner, wrapping your hair down and over the pipe cleaner to maintain distinct, separated curls. Bend and tuck the remaining excess of the pipe cleaner up over the hair. Let stand for 1 hour and set with texturizing curl spritz. Blow dry on low heat for 5 minutes.

3. Apply natural oil conditioners and curl enhancing deep conditioner to your hair weekly. Make sure to watch that your hair does not become to dry or frizzy. Instead, when brushing, use a wide-toothed comb and follow the natural curl of the perm and do not break the hair to remove the shape. When needed, use a scrunchy or light hair tie when pulling your hair back to keep the natural texture without pushing too harshly on the shape.

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Traditional Spanish Hairstyles

Traditional Spanish hairstyles are recognizable for three common characteristics: the center part, voluminous chignons, and chignons set at the base of the neck. Another common feature of Spanish hairstyles is the addition of ornamental combs. Examples of traditional Spanish hairstyles can be seen today in the hairstyles of Flamenco dancers and in period-set films.

Chignon

The classic Spanish-style chignon is formed by pulling hair back into a low pony-tail leaving a center part. Traditional Spanish hair was worn long which helped with the volume of the chignon; however, if hair is thinner or shorter, teasing can help achieve volume. The hair was often set in a wide figure-eight pattern, or in three rosettes at the base of the neck. A chignon bun was almost always worn with two tendrils pulled loose in front of the ears and curled. This style was very often accompanied by decorative combs set into the chignon, usually off to one side.

Mantilla and Comb

The mantilla and comb is a very traditional Spanish look using a peineta comb worn at the base of a low-set chignon. The comb is a convex shape which goes around the head and extends above, sometimes as hight as 10 inches. Attached to the comb is a hand-made Chantilly lace mantilla which flows down the back; the combs are traditionally made from mother of pearl or tortoise-shell. This is a formal style, worn only at occasions like weddings, or for solemn Church ceremonies and processions.

Flamenco Chignon

The Flamenco chignon needs to be very sturdy, so the ponytail is pulled back tightly, either straight back from the forehead or with a center part. The hair is then often braided before twisting into a large chignon at the base of the neck. Flamenco chignons are typically accompanied by a very large ornamental flower set behind one ear or on the back or the head, which gives the style a dramatic look.

Half-up, Half-down

Worn as a daytime look for younger ladies, this style takes the top half of the hair and sweeps it back into a low ponytail with the bottom half of the hair loose at the back. The ponytail is then either plaited or twisted into a low chignon. Curled tendrils in front of the ears are often seen with this style.

Spanish Hair in Films

Examples of traditional style Spanish hairdos can be seen worn by Catherine Zeta-Jones in the "Zorro" films and by Lumi Cavasos in "Like Water for Chocolate." Spanish hairstyles are also seen in films like Carlos de Saura's "Flamenco" or worn by iconic Flamenco dancer Carmen Amaya.

Tags: base neck, center part, Spanish hairstyles, Traditional Spanish, back into

What Are Some Hair Care Treatments To Make Relaxed Hair Grow

Proper maintenance of relaxed hair is key to ensuring healthy growth.

Managing relaxed hair presents its own set of challenges. As with any other chemical hair treatments, the hair can be damaged if it is not properly maintained. Many products claim to be able to give you longer hair, but the only way to achieve this with relaxed hair is to prevent breakage and keep hair healthy.

What a Relaxer Does to Your Hair

If your hair is very curly, thick or coarse, you can apply a relaxer to straighten and smooth the hair. A relaxer is a combination of chemicals that, when applied to the hair, enters the hair shaft and breaks down the protein inside it. It essentially destroys the bonds that hold the hair together. This causes the hair to become straight. The relaxer will need to be reapplied to new hair growth at the scalp every few months.

What is in a Relaxer?

A relaxer contains sodium hydroxide, a powerful chemical used in drain cleaning products, and ammonium hydroxide, which is a respiratory irritant. These chemicals strip your hair of nutrients essential for hair growth. Consistent use of relaxers can damage hair follicles and hinder hair growth.

There can be serious consequences to your hair and health if a relaxer is not applied properly. Chemical burns, and severe breakage are common. A chemical burn to the scalp is not only painful, it can cause permanent baldness.

Hair Growth and Relaxers

Your hair will most likely continue to grow after a relaxer has been applied. However, the reason hair may appear to stop growing is most likely the result of breakage. Breakage occurs when the chemicals in the relaxer make the hair weak and vulnerable to damage.

Apply a moisturizer daily to chemically treated hair. Limit the use of heated styling tools. Don't wash your hair every day, as this will cause more dryness and breakage. Once or twice a week should suffice.

Ways to Help Lessen the Damage Caused By Relaxers

Make sure that the person applying the relaxer is a trained professional. You should use light weight oil such as coconut or jojoba, to moisturize the scalp. Avoid using petroleum based products on the hair. Petroleum, or grease, will only act as a barrier and will not adequately moisturize the hair. Maintaining a healthy diet is also important. If your body does not get the nutrients it needs it cannot support healthy hair growth. The best advice for long healthy hair may be to phase out use of the relaxer and stick to natural methods of styling.

Tags: hair growth, relaxed hair, healthy hair, most likely, What Relaxer

Straw Curl Hair

Straw curling your hair creates very tight curls

African-American women use this hairstyle for curls that are frizz free and shiny, but any woman can set her hair in straw curls. Salons offer this service but you can do it yourself easily. Learning this style only needs a little practice. All of the tools you need are easy to buy at the drugstore or supermarket and are relatively cheap.

Instructions

1. Shampoo and condition your hair. Dry with a towel but don't rub the hair as this can damage it.

2. Cut the straws to about the length of your hair or one to two inches longer.

3. Comb some of your hair to the side, then put the rest of your hair in a ponytail or clip. Part a small section of hair.

4. Spray gel onto the parted small section until it is a little wet. Take the end of the small section and start wrapping it around the straw tightly. Continue until you have wrapped the whole length of the hair around the straw. When the straw reaches your scalp let the straw turn vertically.

5. Bobby pin the straw by putting the pin through the hole in the straw to hold that piece of hair in place. Take another small section of hair and wrap it around the straw tightly and bobby pin it. Repeat until all of your hair is set in straws.

6. Blow dry your hair or let it dry naturally. Take out the bobby pins from all the straws and gently remove the straws from your hair.

7. Run fingers gently through your curls and apply a shine serum.

Tags: your hair, small section, around straw, around straw tightly, section hair

Maintain The Curl After A Perm

Caring for your curly perm adds to its lifespan.

Since getting a perm is a costly endeavor that may take hours to complete, proper care is crucial to ensure you get your time and money's worth. Perms use a chemical process to change your hair's structure, giving you beautifully curly hair. Maintaining your perm and curls properly means your perm will last longer and save you additional trips to the salon. Caring for your perm is as much about doing the right things as it is about avoiding specific actions and tools.

Instructions

1. Refrain from washing your hair for 24 hours after getting the perm. The process and chemicals need time to settle, and washing before they settle may ruin the perm no less than a day after getting it.

2. Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo when showering. Work the shampoo into your hair shafts and ends. Avoid shampoos with a high alkaline content. Shampoos designed to give you sleek, smooth hair may also help prevent unwanted frizz.

3. Use conditioner every day. To maintain light hair, use small amounts of spray-in conditioner, which may be lighter than rub-in conditioner.

4. Pat your hair dry with your towel instead of rubbing it. Either let it air dry or gently wrap it in a towel. Avoid the blow dryer, the dry heat may damage the perm and ruin your curls. If blow-drying is a must, use more spray-in conditioner than you normally would and blow-dry sparingly.

5. Comb your hair using a wide-toothed comb instead of a regular brush or fine-toothed comb. The wide teeth allow your curls plenty of space to stay formed, while still combing your hair.

Tags: your hair, your perm, after getting, Caring your, getting perm, hair with

Get Waves With Straight Hair Without Using A Perm For Men

Not only can a perm damage your hair, but also, many guys don't want the tight, spiraled curl look that perms can give. Instead, opt for a healthier and easier alternative to get waves in your hair. Using small rollers in your hair will not only give you a waved look, but also the curls are not permanent. As long as you have enough hair to wrap around the roller twice, you will be able to give yourself easy, natural-looking curls and/or waves.

Instructions

1. Apply a half-dollar-size drop of mousse to your hair. The mousse will add volume to your hair.

2. Plug your hot rollers in. If there is a heat control, turn the heat up to the highest setting.

3. Separate a small section of hair and wrap it around a hot roller. Clip the roller clip (they come with the rollers) through your hair and roller to keep the roller in place.

4. Continue to wrap small sections of hair around rollers until all your hair is wrapped. You can control the size of the curl by using smaller sections and smaller rollers for a more defined look. For waves, use a medium-size section of hair -- about 1/2 inch in width -- and medium rollers.

5. Spray your hair with hair spray while it's still in the rollers. Leave the rollers in your hair for 10 minutes.

6. Remove the rollers from your hair.

7. Brush through your hair to loosen the curls to make them look more natural. Spray your hair once again to hold the wave in place.

Tags: your hair, around roller, hair wrap, hair wrap around, rollers your, rollers your hair

Apply A Jheri Curl

The right application of Jheri curl leaves hair looking soft and shiny. Jheri curl, a process created by Jheri Redding, was predominant in the African American population during the 1980's. Movie stars and pop singers of the time wore the soft curl look covered in shiny conditioners leading the rest of the population to follow suit. While the look has faded into the past for much of the mainstream, kits for the process are still available. The process is intended for naturally coarse, tightly curled hair.

Instructions

1. Apply the rearranging cream from the Jheri Curl kit from root to tip of the hair. Leave this on your hair for a full 24 hours.

2. Wash the hair, removing the rearranging cream and towel dry.

3. Roll the hair in small sections using medium size perm rods. Part the hair with a comb into small squares all over the head. Roll up each section and secure in place.

4. Apply the perm solution from the kit to the hair. Allow it to remain on the head according to the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Rinse the perm solution from your hair. Do not wash it with shampoo.

6. Apply activator from root to tip of the hair. This shiny substance assists in maintaining the soft curl appearance and moisturizes the hair.

Tags: from root, from root hair, perm solution, perm solution from, rearranging cream, root hair, soft curl

Permanent Waves & Hair Testing

Hair testing tells stylists if it is safe to perm.

Hair testing and analysis gives stylists the information they need to accurately predict how a permanent wave will turn out. The information also helps stylists choose the type of perm and rods to use to achieve the desired results. Without testing, stylists can only guess at how the perm will turn out or if it will turn out at all. For this reason, hair testing should be performed before each and every permanent wave service.

Density and Diameter

Density refers to the number of hairs growing in a 1-inch square section of scalp. Density ranges from thin to thick. Diameter refers to the circumference size of each individual hair. Diameter ranges from fine to coarse. Both density and diameter are extremely important factors when perming. As density increases, the section size for each rod decreases. Diameter effects rod size and perm solution. Finer hair requires larger rods and a stronger perm solution as it is easy to break but difficult to perm.

Porosity

Porosity is the ability of hair to absorb liquid. Hair should not absorb a huge amount of liquid. Instead, liquid should mostly remain on the outside of the cuticle layer until it is dried. Good porosity is identified by hair that dries quickly. Overly porous hair is difficult to dry, heavy feeling, dry and frizzy. Porosity affects the outcome of the perm since it is directly linked to hair damage. Perming overly porous hair may result in more damage, breakage, dryness and frizziness.

Elasticity

Good elasticity ensures hair against breakage. During the perming process, hair expands and shrinks. If the hair is unable to stretch to accommodate the expansion, breakage occurs. To check elasticity, stylists wet the hair and hold an individual strand between the two first fingers of each hand. They leave about 3 to 4 inches between holding points and gently pull on the hair and release. Your stylist should be able to feel the stretch and see the hair retract when the tension is released. If the hair breaks, it is not safe to perm.

History

A complete history is also taken before each perm service. Always tell your stylist the complete history of everything you have done to your hair over the past year. Even if you cover highlights with a darker color, the highlights and the damages associated with them are still there. Failure to disclose a complete history could be disastrous.

Identifying problems

Stylists also check the hair for potential problems that may interfere with the hair's ability to take a perm. Product and medication build up, metallic dyes and certain health problems can be discerned with a close inspection of the hair.

Tags: complete history, will turn, before each, Hair testing, perm solution

Hair Styles For Women Older Than 40

Your 40s can be fun.

Today there is not a big difference between hairstyles for mature women and the trendy hairstyles that are constantly sweeping the fashion and celebrity world. It is no longer assumed that once you reach 40-something, your best days of fashion and style are over. Mature women can wear a variety of hairstyles, depending on personality and preference, providing that they have the hair to support the style. By choosing the appropriate hairstyle, they not only look younger but also feel younger.

Short is Stylish

Short hairstyles are easy.

New techniques and products have enabled hairstylists to create gorgeous short styles for the busy 40-something woman. Pixie haircuts, layered shags and messy short bobs look stylish and can hide thinning hair by texturizing, lifting and highlighting. Shorter hairstyles have face-lifting effects, accentuate pretty eyes and can be very feminine. Opt for shorter upper layers to give height to the crown and more body to mature, thin hair. Women with short hair also benefit from low maintenance with minimal styling. With any of these short styles, it is easier to control or allow the silver color as it begins to appear.

Medium is Manageable

Medium hair is flattering.

This is a length which most over-40 women prefer due to the versatility, femininity and maintenance level. Women of all ages find the midlength haircut is a great option for various types of hair textures, even thin or brittle. Medium-length hairstyles suitable for women over 40 include the bob--or "pob," for "posh bob" as it is known by celebrities--layered hairstyles, hairstyles with bangs and curly or fringed dos. The medium hair length will allow women to style their tresses differently: curly, wavy, vintage, straight, flipped or updo. Bangs help to hide forehead wrinkles as well as laugh lines. Layering provides height and lift. Razor-cut ends make wrinkles appear less visible. Positioning wisps toward the jawline lifts facial features and creates the illusion of a longer neck.

Long is Lavish

Long hair is versatile.

Women over 40 usually avoid long hair, mostly because it is high maintenance. Long hairstyles, however, offers numerous possibilities when it comes to hairstyling. Women can choose long layered, curly, straight or wavy hairstyles. Long hair can be casual or elegant: tied in a bun, strands, a braid, a ponytail or a chignon. Long hair generally requires more time, but it can can be stunning if it is lustrous and healthy.

Tags: Long hair, short styles

Hair Relaxer Smoothing Techniques

Knowing properly smooth hair when applying a relaxer is the surest way to get the best results. Whether you apply a relaxer to virgin hair (hair that has no straightening chemicals in it) or you apply it only to new growth, following careful smoothing instructions will get you straight hair every time.

Smoothing Directions

You may find it helpful to apply a base around the hairline, on the top of the ears and at the nape of the neck before beginning the relaxer process. A base can be a simple coat of petroleum jelly. This protects the skin and scalp from getting chemicals on them.

The best way to smooth a relaxer on the hair is with gloved hands. Gloves protect your skin from the chemicals in a relaxer. You can apply the relaxer with hands or with an application brush. Apply the relaxer in a downward direction. Don't take too much time to smooth during application because you must work quickly to put the relaxer over all the hair you want to straighten.

Once the relaxer is put on the hair, go over all hair that has the chemicals on it. If you're only applying it to new growth, be careful not to get it on previously relaxed hair. This leads to overprocessing and breakage. Avoid getting any chemicals on the scalp as this may cause burning and scalp damage. For smoothing on virgin hair, smooth all the way to the ends.

Work downward and use your fingers to smooth the hair out. Use firm, but gentle pressure. Smooth sections no thicker than one inch to ensure that all hairs are covered. The goal of smoothing is to create straight hair. If the hair is still curly or kinked, smooth it until it lies flat and straight.

You can use a comb to smooth a relaxer, but not to comb the chemicals through the hair. Instead, use the back of a plastic comb to smooth the hair down.

Finish smoothing the hair by the time the recommended time period is up for relaxing. The time frame for relaxing includes application and smoothing.

Around the Hairline

The only time you work upward is when smoothing the hair at the nape of the neck. Lift the hair and smooth it flat before letting this section fall back down.

At the front hairline, be careful not to get any relaxer on the face. Smooth hair going back, including hair at the front of the ears.

Tags: comb smooth, getting chemicals, hair hair, hair smooth, hair that, nape neck, over hair

Get Natural Long Wavy Kinky Hair

Wavy, curly or even kinkier hair may be achieved.

Ethnic hair is naturally wavy, curly and/or kinky, with multiple curl patterns and textures. If you don't have ethnic hair, you're not going to be able to change the physical structure of the texture of your hair naturally. However, you may still be able to achieve a wave with particular products and styling methods. The curlier or kinkier the desired effect, the more wave you'll need to have in your hair. This wave can be acquired with hair products and styling accessories. There are also products and techniques you can use to encourage hair growth.

Instructions

1. If your hair is naturally straight and/or fine, visit a hair salon and request a body wave or a curly perm. According to Hairstyle, a body wave or curly perm is good for persons with thin, fine and/or straight hair who desire more volume and curl. Extremely straight hair needs to have some basic wave or curl pattern before attempting the styles in the next steps. For a kinkier look, get a curly perm; for a wavier look, pursue the body wave and style accordingly.

2. Part your hair into two sections, down the middle, from the crown to the nape of your neck. Apply styling gel or mousse with a medium-hold to your hair. Cornrow each section of your hair, from front to rear, as tightly as possible. Tie a silk scar over your hair and let it remain throughout the night. The next morning, remove the scarf and "rake out" the cornrows with your fingers, to preserve the detail of your hair waves.

3. Wet your hair, generously apply styling gel throughout and twist a small section of your hair around your finger. Use a bobby pin to hold the section at the scalp. Repeat for the rest of your hair. Leave the twists in for approximately thirty minutes or until your hair is dry. Take the bobby pins out of your hair. Do not brush; instead, use your fingers to lift the curls at the roots and scrunch them. Curl the ends with a curling iron and apply hairspray or mousse to hold your set.

4. Moisturize your hair with a nongreasy treatment on a regular basis; dry hair prohibits hair growth, as it leads to hair breakage. Trim your ends every six to eight weeks to prevent split ends, which can also hinder hair growth.

Tags: your hair, body wave, curly perm, hair growth, hair naturally, body wave curly

Do Pin Curls At Home

Pin curls can give you a glamorous red carpet look with a vintage flair.

Pin curls are the basis for a wide variety of curly and wavy hairstyles. Made popular in the 1940s and '50s, pin curls are still worn today by famous stars like Katy Perry and Christina Aguilera. Use pin curls for a retro-chic look, for bouncy, long-lasting curls. You can pin the curls up as far ahead of time as you like, meaning you can even put them in the night before an important event and shake them out the next day for beautiful, voluptuous locks.

Instructions

1. Apply a generous amount of hair gel to damp hair. Make sure the hair is coated.

2. Part your hair at the desired part line. Every pin curl to the left of the part will be curled forward in a clockwise direction. Pin curls on the right side of the part will be rolled forward toward the face in a counterclockwise direction.

3. Carve out the first few base sections for your curls using the tail of your comb. Base sections should be approximately one inch square. For larger curls, carve out larger bases.

4. Hold the hair from one base section in your non-dominant hand, and with your comb in the dominant hand, press the hair from the base section between your thumb and the back of the comb, pulling away from the head. This will push the hair into a flat ribbon.

5. Roll the ribboned strand toward the scalp. Form a circle one inch in diameter, in a clockwise direction if working on the left side of the part and in a counterclockwise direction if working on the right. Adjust the diameter of the circle to correspond to the size of your base if you elected to make the base larger. Keep the size of the circle constant from the end of the hair up to the base. Do not tuck in the ends. If you handle the hair gently and ribbon the hair first, the ends should stay neatly curled on the top of the circle when you reach the scalp.

6. Insert a a double-pronged pin curl pin across one side of the circle. Placing the clip across both sides of the circle could result in a bend or dent in the resulting curl. Pin the curls firmly to prevent movement while drying, especially if leaving them in overnight.

7. Repeat Steps 4 through 6, carving out one-inch bases in rows from the front hairline to the nape of the neck.

8. Wrap the hair in a scarf or other smooth wrap once all the curls are pinned in place.

9. Allow the hair to dry completely before removing the wrap and pins. The easiest way to do this is simply to go to sleep with the curls wrapped. By morning your hair should be dry and ready to take down. If you don't have time to let your hair air-dry you can use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment to distribute the heat evenly and avoid displacing any hair.

10. Take down the curls when dry and style with your fingers or a bristle brush. For separated individual curls put a little shine serum on your fingers and run them through each curl once, or shake your head out to loosen up the set. For a more uniformly shaped wave, brush through the curls with a boar bristle brush. The more your brush through the curls, the looser they will become.

11. Set the style with hairspray when you have achieved a look you are satisfied with. Your new pin curl style should stay in place and turn heads all night.

Tags: your hair, base section, bristle brush, brush through, brush through curls, clockwise direction, counterclockwise direction

Maypole Dance Steps

May Day, or Beltane (bright fire) in the Anglo Saxon era, marks the beginning of the growing season. The original maypole was a hawthorn tree that was cut down and brought to the center of the village. Members of the community would dance around it, as the maypole represented a symbol of fertility. The maypole did not always have ribbons. By the 1900s, a maypole with ribbons became the well-established norm as did the intricate ribbon-plaiting dances associated with it.

A Ribbonless Maypole Dance

Pick a simple piece of music that has easy beats. Form a big circle with the dancers standing shoulder to shoulder, spaced about 2 feet apart, facing the maypole. Clasp hands and step forward four times, raising the hands up and looking up. Step back four times, lowering the hands and looking down with lowered heads. Drop hands, turn right and skip forward 16 times. Turn to face the center, then turn to the left and skip forward 16 times. Add other dance steps as you please, then as the music comes to an end, stand facing the maypole, clasping the hands of the dancers on either side.

The Grand Chain

This dance can be done with 8 to 20 dancers. The women stand in front of the men with their backs to the maypole. Both men and women hold the maypole ribbons in their right hands. As the music starts, the women go clockwise, going behind the first man and in front of the second man as the men do the same in a counter-clockwise direction. Once the ribbons get shorter, the men and women can reverse directions, unwinding the ribbons and winding them again in the other direction.

The Gypsy Tent

The men stand on the outside of the circle while the women stand before them. Both partners hold a ribbon in their right hand. While the men stand still, the women dance around their partner, then continue on, moving to the right, around the next man. As the women work their way around the circle, they'll create a "gypsy tent" with the ribbons. The women can dance in the other direction, unwinding the ribbons as they go.

Tags: dance around, facing maypole, forward times, four times, hands looking, Maypole Dance, other direction

Easy Crafts For A Luau Party For Kids

A luau is a Hawaiian feast that features many types of food, entertainment and music. A luau theme is a fun way to make a summer children's party fresh and exciting. Providing luau themed crafts for the kids to work on helps promote a festive and entertaining atmosphere for the party.

Lei

Make Hawaiian lei to wear during the party. Cut colored plastic straws into 1-inch pieces. Cut craft foam or paper into flower shapes and make a hole in the middle with a hole punch. String the straw pieces and flowers alternately onto a string or cord. Tie off the string to make a necklace.

Tissue Paper Hair Flowers

Stack four pieces of tissue paper measuring 8 inches by 16 inches. You can use multiple colors or a single color. Fold the stack of tissue paper lengthwise, like an accordion, and tie a piece of string or thread around the middle. Tie a bobby pin or barrette to the string. Fan out and scrunch the tissue paper to look like a flower and pin it into your hair.

Seashell Mirrors or Picture Frames

Provide small mirrors or picture frames with very basic, blank frames. Glue seashells onto the frames. Collect shells from a beach or buy them from a craft store.

Fiji Fans

Purchase woven fans from a craft or imports store. Decorate them with assorted craft supplies such as beads, shells, glitter, craft foam and plastic craft gems.

Flip-Flops

Have each guest decorate a pair of flip-flop sandals. Provide craft supplies, including glue, glitter, silk or plastic flowers, plastic gems, feathers and seashells.

Tags: craft foam, craft supplies, from craft, tissue paper

Make Horse Hair Jewelry And Accessories

Horse hair bracelet

Jewelry and accessories made from horse hair can add a dash of flare to any outfit. Slowly save the hair that you comb from your horse to create a beautiful bracelet that all of your friends will marvel over.

Instructions

1. Collect horse hairs that are about a foot in length. Continue collecting them until you have small bundle--as wide as your thumb.

2. Wrap an elastic band at the far end of the horse hair. Insert the thin metal wire into the center of the bundle. Make sure the elastic band is wrapped tightly, as to hold the hairs and wire in place.

3. Comb the hair gently to remove any tangles.

4. Separate the small bundle of hair into three equal sections. Keep the wire in the center of the middle section of hair. Braid the hair, concealing the metal wire, until you reach the bottom of the bundle.

5. Bind the end of the braid with silk cord in the same color of the horse hair. Repeat this process for the beginning of the braid, binding the silk cord in front of the elastic band (where the braid begins). Remove elastic band. Trim off excess hair.

6. Pull the silk cord through the cap end and secure it to the end of your bracelet. The hair slips into the cap end, providing a neat appearance. Repeat this process for the other end of your bracelet.

7. Slip the metal beads over the hair and position where desired. You may choose to have an attractive bead or charm in the center of your bracelet, as a focal point.

Tags: elastic band, horse hair, silk cord, your bracelet, metal wire, Repeat this, Repeat this process