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African threading

Hair

Best yarn hairstyles this winter.

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

I know, yarn is not even expected to do grown up hairstyles and it’s normally relegated to Benny and Betty, a primary school hairstyle aka African threading. But with some creativity, yarn can be used to create really stylish, fit for adults hairstyles. With natural hair, creativity is not what we struggle with, not at all. And when done right, yarn hairstyles can be very good protective hairstyles and can be kept in for 3 weeks or more.

What kind of yarn can be used for hair styling? That’s the question I am asked most of the time when I do a yarn hairstyle. Well, any yarn really and any colour for that matter. I mostly use 3 ply yarn that is normally used for knitting jerseys and also Brazilian wool. Both have their advantages and disadvantages but that’s a post for another day.

I compiled these threading or yarn/wool hairstyles if you need some inspiration for your next protective style using yarn.

Simple Benny & Betty with some extensions.

Simple Benny Betty with some synthetic hair extensions. This is easy to do and the longer hair makes it more presentable and can be worn by adults and kids alike.

Faux locs using Brazilian wool. These faux locs are so light weight. The only setback is that they take long to install. Otherwise, once you have them on, you will enjoy them. Another thing, make sure not to have them made too tight.

Faux locs can also be done in different colours to express your style and personality.

Yarn twists are just amazing and I could do these over and over again. These can be done using either Brazilian wool or knitting wool. Both ways come out really great.

I have fallen in love with these long bulky Yarn twists. However, knowing yarn twists, don’t even think about washing your hair while you have these on if you still want to live. The yarn becomes so heavy when drenched in water it will literally break your neck if it’s this much. Don’t they look amazing though?

Yarn twists can be enjoyed in an assortment of colours as well. I can’t get enough of these pink ones. They look so neat and chic.

Yarn braids are also a great style choice. It’s a great protective style and can be done either long, short, think or thin.

African threading with cornrows in the front are so simple, neat and elegant. Quite a favourite of mine.

African threading can be worn easily to the office. Styled well and done in a way that brings out the face profile and the professional in you.

I love these flat twisted African threading that I saw on the Latore page, a hair salon in Pretoria. So beautiful. Can’t wait to try these. Very artistic.

The flat twisted African threading can also be done as an updo hairstyle. I love how this one from Nashe Hair Studio came out.

Another hairstyle choice using yarn is to do them with a needle. Although it may require some skill to do them, they are artistic and stay longer than cornrows on the hair. Also suitable for those with shorter hair. I have a whole playlist on my channel on how to do needle and thread cornrows and flat twists. Here is one of my latest videos.

These are just a few that I managed to include in this post. Otherwise, I have lot’s of pictures on hairstyles that I collect from Pinterest, Instagram and from Nashe Hair Studio.

Which one is your favourite yarn hairstyle? I would live to know. I am eyeing the very colourful yarn twists as my next protective style. I want to do them quite thin though because I just can’t deal with bulky hair of late.

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HairstylesVideos

Needle & Thread Cornrows

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

I have added a bit of spice to the usual needle and thread cornrows so it looks chic and really cute. You know, when you have just finished a job, in this case, a hairstyle, and you tell yourself, “Yeah, this is beautiful.” That’s what I felt when I finished this hairstyle. To tell you that when I started doing the hair, I had only a slight idea on how I was going to do the hair, otherwise the final look, even I was in shock. When I do hair, it is kind of an empty canvas and although I will be having an idea on what to create, the style changes as I go along. And this is what happened here as well.

I did a combination of techniques here to create this protective hairstyle but what I wanted to showcase is the needle & thread technique. I also used good old cornrows and crocheting of synthetic hair onto cornrows and African threading. Wow! that’s quite a combination. Didn’t realise it until I wrote it down. When I posted the video on YouTube, it got quite a good response and some of the comments are requests for me to post more beginner friendly videos of the needle and thread technique. What do you think? Let me know in the comments below.

Here is the whole process in case you are unable to watch the video.

Are you subscribed yet to my channel? If not, please do. You know what, I will keep asking you to and most importantly, watching my content because that is how I get paid and manage to sustain this blog. So far, it is about R1000 over 3 to 4 months. And that is good because I can pay for hosting the blog among other things. If that could come every month, it would really be great. So, please share my videos, comment and give me a thumbs up if you think I put out content that is beneficial to you. If not, what kind of content do you think will give you more value? Please share in the comments below.


Same time, same place, next week. God bless you big time.

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HairstylesVideos

African Threading with Marley Hair & Chebe butter

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

So, you can’t do twists on your own but African threading is your thing? I got you covered.This hairstyle indeed involves some braiding and twisting but it is done on the natural hair. The hair extension, in this case Marley hair, is then crocheted into the hair. So, no problems with braiding with extension which can be a challenge for a lot of people. The hair and extension is then wrapped using yarn and viola, a protective style that will get some people confused if it is your hair or not. Go on, watch the video and you will see how simple it is.

I started off with stretched hair. However, any condition of  hair is great. Any length as well. As long as you have enough length to do the initial braid to crochet the hair extension. I also applied some Chebe butter which I have been trying out for some time.  I’m happy to report that, after 3 weeks when I removed the hair style, my hair felt smooth and very soft. Very little breakage of the hair as well. So, I’m loving the Chebe butter and very soon it will be available online for those no so DIY girls or who want a one process application of a product.


I find that, this hairstyle was really the best when applying Chebe to my hair because, the small pieces of Chebe powder where not visible at all after my hair was done. So, I could slap on as much as I wanted without the fear that I will be asked a few questions by people I meet wanting to know what was on my hair. I will surely do this hairstyle again and my hair pomade of choice will definitely be the Chebe butter.

For the Marley hair, I used old Brown & Ayo Marley hair. Did you know you can use Marley hair over and over again? Yeah, it’s true. You can use it for different things as well. You just need to wash it and condition it to freshen it up a bit. Otherwise, it’s an asset to a naturalista who is into hair extensions. I have used mine over 5 times already. Call me skimpy, I don’t mind. I’ve got kids to feed hey! Every cent counts.

I stayed with this hairstyle for over 3 weeks and I even styled it like dreadlocks at some point. So, really, there is not limit on how long you can keep this hairstyle for. Just make sure your hair doesn’t lock. Unless that’s your plan, to transition into real locks. I enjoyed this hairstyle shame. Too much.

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HairVideos

African Threading with Extensions

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

This hairstyle is as easy as it looks. Basically African threading with some added hair so that I can have more options when styling it. The added hair makes a big difference guys. Especially if your hair is not long enough to tie a bun or style it in any way. Adding the extra hair also helps with volume. Makes African threading look chic even if it is just 4 sections like the ones I did.

African threading

From short hair and extra long hair

I mean, 4 sections are normally done as a night routine when stretching the hair for the night, to minimise shrinkage the next day. That is actually how I landed on this hairstyle the first time. I had washed my hair and did not have time to do chunky twists even. So, I decided to do African threading for the night and see what I can do with my hair the next day. And then a thought came to me to use a bit of gel on the hair and also add some extra hair. I was literally playing with my hair. Was not expecting a real style to come out of it. I tied my hair with a scarf and went to bed. The next morning, my edges were so laid and the African threading was looking so good. Of course I took some pictures and posted on social media and from that came the requests for a tutorial. Here are the pictures I posted.

The ones I did now are actually a better version of the African threading because I put more thought into it and created a procedure for you that is easy to follow. The first time I did this, I did not follow any set procedure at all.

African threading

African threading

In the video, I am using XQ Marley hair. You can use any type of kinky textured hair as well and it should come out fine. Just make sure the colour of the hair and the type is as close to your natural hair as possible so that you can be able to create that illusion that it is your natural hair that is so long. I also used normal knitting acrylic yarn and for laying my edges and the sections, I used eco styler gel. Please do watch the video to get to know how I do it.  The thing that can be of great interest is how I join the hair extension to my actual hair and to make it look like my hair is super long.


And to say I enjoyed this hairstyle is an understatement. I loved it and I am sure going to do it again. What do you think about African threading? Is it a style you could do? Are you a fan? What are the tactics that you use to make your African threading hairstyle more stylish? I would love to know. Comment below and let’s talk and celebrate about African threading. It is part of our heritage you know. Our African heritage. No wonder is it called African threading. Not just hair threading.

Otherwise, from me to you, hugs and kisses. Stay blessed.

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DIYHair care

2 Ways To Trim Your Own Hair

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

Does your hair need a trim and you would like to do it yourself, but not sure where to start? That’s why your girl is here. To show you how to navigate this natural hair journey and if DIY is your thing, I’m your girl as well.

I started off with stretched hair. Remember I said I was stretching my hair with African threading so that I can trim it in my last post? Well, this is the trim I was talking about. In this post, I want to share with you how I trim my hair. Well, there are 2 methods that I use, one more than the other but still they are 2 and I want to let you in on both of them.

2 ways to trim you own hair

I divided my hair into 2 sections and on one section, I took smaller sections of hair in between my 2 fingers and then trimmed off the part that needed to go. Split ends must go. No discussion there. Using this method, there is always the risk of cutting way more than necessary especially if your hair is short like mine and you are relying on the mirror or camera screen to guide you on what to trim. However, getting the hair in between the 2 fingers is of much help and such accidents come far in between. Getting my hair to be all level is not much of a priority when I am trimming my own hair because my hair never grows even anyway. There are some parts that struggle more than others.

And, on the other side, I did some loose twists and then trim the ends of the twists. This in my view is the safest especially if your hair is not long enough that you can bring the part you are trimming before your eyes and trim. If you are relying on the mirror to guide you on where to trim, this one here is the safest because it ensures only the ends of the twist are trimmed.

When should I be trimming ends?

It is important to trim split ends as and when necessary. I’m not a big fan of trimming ends as per routine. Only when it is necessary, then you trim. I trimmed my hair 5 months ago and I am trimming now because my hair needs it.

But why trim ends?

I know, some of you may be asking. Well, it is still very important to trim split ends even when you’re on a hair growth journey. If you don’t trim those ends, they will keep splitting and will make your ends thinner and thinner and then they will break off. Because the split is still there, it keeps on splitting and the breakage becomes a vicious cycle. Your hair will be breaking as fast as it grows from your scalp. In the end, you will not be able to retain much length. Besides, your ends will be so thin, and it doesn’t look good at all. So, the best thing to do is to just get rid of those ends.

How do you even know that your hair needs a trim?

  • the ends often appear thinner than usual and this is more noticeable on stretched hair although one can still see that the ends are thinner even on a wash n go.
  • you are experiencing a lot of breakage. As in, when you wash your hair or comb it, you are noticing a lot of coils of hair that are often in the form of a sickle. These hairs will not remain on your brush or comb but go straight down to your dressing table or shower flow. That is breakage on your ends and when it becomes more than usual, then you may have split ends that must go.
  • you can also inspect your hair regularly to see if it is splitting or ask a friend or your stylist to do an inspection.

In a nutshell, you should know your hair so that you are aware of any changes in behaviour.

2 ways to trim you own hair

Here is what I managed to trim from the first method and the second. Do, the comparison. Do you trim your own hair? What method do you use? Please share with us in the comments section below. Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel Natural Sisters if you are a natural sister like me and you would like to join this tribe. Otherwise thank you so much for coming by. I will see you on the next one. May God bless you more than you can ever imagine. Happy trimming.

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Hair

How to Stretch Natural Hair Using African Threading

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

Another video is up guys, or girls. I am so used to say guys. Anyways, dear lovely people, another video is live on my channel and it’s about how I stretch my hair using African Threading. After stretching my hair, a lot of people often ask me if my hair is natural or relaxed. Far from it. My hair is still natural. Asijiki. I am not going back to relaxers, It’s not worth it. Especially when I can have it straight temporarily using heat or African threading, mabhanzi, Amaphondo, Benny and Betty.

Below is the whole process in a nutshell. How easy is that? Plus less damage especially if your plaits are not too tight. If you make it too tight though, my friend, your hairline is going to leave you.

I have been using heat a lot on my hair of late and I thought it is time I give it a break. Too much of something, especially heat on these coils cannot be good for me. So, I decided to do the stretching by threading my hair. My hair needs a trim you all. I mean a serious trim. I have not trimmed my hair in 3 months so it was time you all. It was time. I wrote another piece on the importance of trimming hair and if you would like to check that out, here it is.

Do you like the cap? I bought it from Zando recently and I am just in love with it. The earrings in this video are from Jems Of A Natural and we now stock them at Natural Moisture. Why pay shipping twice? When you stock up on your favourite must have products, grab a pair or 2.

  • When my hair is under African Threading

Thank you so much for watching the video. You watched it right? And if you are not subscribed yet, please do subscribe and leave a comment for me. I will really appreciate it.

God bless you always.

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Hair

Winter Hair Care. Things you need to know.

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

Got this wig from @mansero_hair

This other lady recently said something interesting about winter. She said, “I love winter because you can keep piling clothes on yourself until you feel warm and cozy. But in summer, there’s a limit on the number of  clothes you can take off to feel comfortable”. And that’s so true. Although I hate wearing my whole wardrobe,(sometimes it feels that way) cold moths do come with advantages as well. Like family time around a fireplace or a gas heater, hot chocolate every evening, like uumm, that’s my downfall. Hot chocolate is going to make me gain weight this winter. But when it comes to hair, the strain, damage from neglect, unsafe practices and cold windy weather can leave our natural hair dry, brittle and prone to breakage. And sometimes, we only see the damage caused soon after winter just like weight gain. But it does not have to be like that. There are ways of managing natural hair in winter that will help you still have beautiful hair in winter and when the cold and wind is gone. In winter, our natural hair really needs some tender loving care and that’s what it should get. Here are some tips on how to take care of your hair in winter.

  • keep your regimen simple. If it’s simple enough, it will be easier to follow through even when you don’t have much time.
  • Still make time to wash regularly even when protective styling. That will keep your hair moisturised and your scalp clean. A clean scalp grows healthier hair.
  • Deep condition as much as possible. Every time you wash your hair at least. Deep conditioning helps your hair retain moisture for longer, strengthens it and gives it some elasticity so that it does not snap easily

Deep conditioning natural hair

Deep conditioning natural hair

  • Protective styling will help you not to have your hands in your hair all the time. You can employ short term protective styling which can be buns, twists and braids and keep them in for a week or two. or even 3 days at a time in the case of a bun and then take it down to re-moisturise the hair and put it up in a bun again.
  • Low manipulation hairstyles are great as well. If protective styling is not your cup of tea, then try styles that do not need a lot of pulling, brushing, combing and all that kind of stuff that can strain and stress the hair shaft.
  • Hair extensions and wigs, when done well are great for winter I particularly love wigs because I can deep condition underneath and on very cold days, even when the heater is on and the air in my office is quite dry, my hair is protected under the wig.
  • Make sure your protective style is not causing you any form of hair loss. So make sure it is done properly. No one needs to deal with hair loss when it can be prevented easily.
  • If it’s a long term protective styling, don’t keep it in your hair for too long. 8 weeks should be the maximum if you don’t want to deal with stubborn knots and some maniac tangling of hair.
  • When applying products on your hair. do what works for you. Some prefer to layer products and others apply the whole concoction at once. But in winter, heavier oils like castor oil and butters work best to offer more sealing and protection from the windy winter weather.
  • Cover your head with satin or silk when you go to sleep.
  • Avoid using heat to style your hair. It’s quite dry in South African winter months. Heat styling natural hair only adds to the damage. If you need to stretch your hair with heat, apply the lowest heat possible, use cold air on your blower or use heatless methods to stretch it like African threading.

African Threading to stretch natural hair

African Threading to stretch natural hair

Most of the tips here are like so common but I included them anyway in case there are newbies and to remind those of us who have been natural for longer but need a plan to retain some hair in winter. Let’s make this winter a good winter for our natural hair.

Do you suffer from sever dandruff and you have tried almost everything but you still see the flakes? Comment below and ask any question about dandruff so that I can include it on a post I will be doing soon. Dandruff is like the enemy to long term protective styling and I want to share with you what has helped me so far. Now I am enjoying stretching my washes to 2 weeks when in a protective style when before I could not go for 3 days without having to wash my hair. It’s not products that I’m going to talk about. It’s more the approach to fighting dandruff that I’ve been missing all along. I know there are some people who are suffering like I did for years. And it’s those people I want to help. I’m not selling you any product as well and it will not be a sponsored post. Just me to you.

Smiles, laughs and hugs for the love of life. God bless you much and keep warm this winter.

 

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Hair

Styling African Threading on Natural Hair

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

Styling African threading has always been a challenge for me. I mean, I’m very very close to 40 and I don’t want my hair looking like I’m in primary school. So the trick here is to make it look adultish so that me can enjoy wearing mine hair in some African threading  girl… And I love to challenge myself and being a creative, (sometimes I can’t sleep at night because my mind will be wondering too much) I came up with this style. Which is not completely new, but I added a twist to it so that it can apply to adult me.

Style #3 African Threading on natural hair

Style #2 African Threading on natural hair

Let me know what you think about the styles I did in this video and if you liked it in any way, give it a thumbs up and share it on your Facebook goups or whatsapp groups so that your peers and family can see it too. Are you subscribed to my channel? Thank you so much. I really appreciate your support. This year, I want to try and grow my subscriber base so if you have friends who may find my channel helpful, tell them about it. Share my videos with them.

Style #1 & #3 African Threading on natural hair Back view

Style #1 African Threading on natural hair

And lastly, (you knew I had to say it right?) In everything you do, love, laugh and smile. It works better than coconut oil I promise and it’s free as well. What could be better than that? God bless you this Easter and always!

 

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Hair

African Threading: Stretching Natural Hair

by Evenes Ruth Mafupa
written by Evenes Ruth Mafupa

African threading on natural hair: Stretching natural hair

African threading on natural hair: Stretching natural hair

Kinky hair is particularly difficult to work with and often requires a lot of patience because it tends to tangle easily especially when not stretched. So if I need someone to work on my hair, I normally prefer pre-stretching it to keep all the drama and pain at bay. In the video below, I show you how I stretch my hair using  mangongo, mabhanzi or amapondo, commonly known as African threading.

Please watch the video to see how I do it. One thing I  need to mention though is that yarn is quite drying to the hair. I therefore coat the yarn with Shea butter to combat the dryness that it may cause to my hair. Any oil or butter will do though. I also try and take the threading out before my hair is completely dry so that my hair isn’t too dry and brittle when combing out. If going for straight hair, I will re-thread it after detangling and combing through. I will keep this second threading until my hair is completely dry. If just stretching my hair, I will bun it and wait for the time to put my hair in the desired style. I hope the video is clear enough. Let me know what you think.

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Blessings!

Ruth sign

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