So, there I stood, looking at my handiwork, trying to convince myself that my cord braiding which was meant to add a finishing touch to our newly installed handrails, went with the rustic look I was trying to achieve, except, my braiding was way too rustic!
Along came Bonginkosi, who took one look at my face, and my attempt, and started chuckling, confirming my suspicions!
He started braiding another section, so I took a peek to see how he was doing and immediately saw why he was so amused.
Perfection indeed!
This was my attempt, not a pretty sight, right?
OK, thought I, it's time to throw in the towel and leave the job to the expert; this was braiding at its best, a skill I still need to learn!
Onto Hair Braiding
...braiding patterns were used to identify tribe, age, wealth, marital status and religion.
Source
My housekeeper often arrives at work with the most beautiful, intricate braided hairstyles, but I think hers has more to do with current braiding trends, as with our young guest.
This certainly is a skill that requires hours of concentration, patience, and much practice to hone it down to perfection!
Penny Wise, Pound foolish
What does braiding have to do with this?
Well, I've learnt some lessons since the day my darling man left this world; from hardware to life skills.
I also bumped my head a couple of times by rushing off in a panic to the closest hardware store to buy plumbing or electrical supplies, surprised at the amazingly low cost, BUT I discovered very soon why that's the case.
I can still hear hubby's voice saying:
If you buy rubbish, don't expect it to last very long.
I bought two kitchen sink mixers in the past six months - the first one of inferior quality lasted probably three months, and the top-notch brand I bought next will likely outlive me, I'm told!
Trying to save pennies is a sure way to see your hard-earned money going down the drain, as it ends up costing way more in the end.
The same goes for getting the right person to do the job. I've bumped my head a couple of times with that one, if your handyman is unsure, call the experts in the particular field!
So...
when the going gets tough, think twice before acting, or the problem could turn into a hornet's nest! (a little like my attempt at braiding)
As with all decisions, there's either a right way, or the wrong way, with no chance of going back!
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Hehe Lizzie yours looks like mine would be and that is just wound round and round 🤣
I love braided hair, but as Mrs T is a hairdresser I know how long it takes on certain types of hair!
As for your materials .... As my mother would say ... If you buy cheap you pay dear in the long run.
Hehe, I tried very hard to see beauty in my attempt, it was just a case of winding it round and around, thank heavens for Bonginkosi.
It must be quite a costly affair having that braiding in a salon, because of the hours it takes!
Your Mom is so right, I'm learning where not to go for hardware now! Drive 4km further, and I get good quality.
Hope you and Mrs T are having a good weekend Ed💕
I've been on my own a long time and have found that there were not many things I couldn't do myself. I'm not afraid to try. As I'm getting older now, there are things I don't feel comfortable with, like climbing ladders and the such, so there are a few things that I could use some help on going forward.
At least you tried ! That is what counts.
Same here, no more climbing high ladders, and I have managed some tasks on my own, but I get on the phone if need be!
I hope you're keeping well Jacey, have a great Sunday;)
That's a good lesson to learn! I actually like both of the braiding done with the cording! I find braided hair so interesting - not sure I could sit that long or work on someone's hair that long, but I guess with practice, both get easier. We have a lot of cheap junk sold here in Panama and it's obvious that it won't last long compared to the "good" quality stuff you have to buy on amazon and have shipped in... Sometimes it works in a pinch while you wait for a delivery, but usually we just try to plan ahead some! Have a great weekend!
Yes, it must take hours although I think they are so skilled and do it really fast
I always loved braiding but somehow never managed to do it right. It's also an activity where you can't hide a small fault as it's quite visible even from a distance. Hence why I really appreciate those who manage to do it right or have the time and ambition to learn to do it right.
It really is an art, and one would need a load of patience. You're right, they have to be very precise. It looks stunning though.
Have a wonderful Sunday @gabrielatravels <3
Thank you, dear! Have a lovely Sunday too! ❤️
Yeah both of these practices need a very long patience to complete them to come out fine, you really tried having the desire to learn and you finally got it right 👍
I tried but left it to the expert.
That's still ok, 🙂
Practice makes perfect, just like with learning any new skill. 🥰🥰
Very true, but I don't think I have the patience to do braiding.
Thank you for stopping by @iamlovelykate <3
That was a good try @lizelle ! I like braiding too since making DIYs is my passion. I can imagine the long session of twirling with that hairstyle but it's quite an accomplishment once done. You need to have the patience in doing it. :) hmm, Id like to try it with my granddaughter's long hair. She's got such a thick crowning glory! My classmates during my younger days used to braid my hair as long as my waistline! Now it's thinning and short. Gone are the days when we're young and restless! Lol!