The braid gives a neat look even to a very thick ponytail. There are many people who weave their horse's mane and tail to improve their performance in competitions.
Steps
Step 1. In the event of a contest or competition, make sure that the braid is allowed and is suitable for the breed of your horse
For some disciplines such as show jumping, fox hunting and polo, braiding is mandatory. However, some breeds, such as mountain and moor ponies, should, as a rule, have their tails loose during competitions.
- The tail must be bushy (if it is sparse, keep it well combed rather than braided, unless the horse likes it).
- The hair of the tail must be long enough.
Step 2. Tie your horse
That way it will stay put while you weave its tail. Put a hay net at his disposal to keep him from getting bored.
Step 3. Detangle the tail with a brush and / or a brusque
Hold the hair in one hand and brush gradually strand by strand.
For the sides and top of the tail, use a mane comb
Step 4. Dip a brush in the water and use it to smooth the tail
If you prefer, you can use a sponge.
Alternatively, you can apply detangling gel or some egg whites with your fingers. These will make the hair easier to handle, and the braid will be sturdy and shiny. Dip your fingers in the egg whites and pass them to the sides and top of the tail
Step 5. Begin to weave
Divide the tail into three sections. Take a small section from the right, left and center from the top of the tail, as close to the hairline as possible. This first part is similar to the French braid technique.
- Cross the left section over the middle section. Then take the one on the right and pass it over the section that is now central (originally the left section).
- Take a strand of hair from the left and join it to the left section (originally the middle section), then proceed as described in the previous step.
Step 6. Continue with this method until you reach three quarters of the length of the sinew of the tail
Make the braid as symmetrical as possible by applying the same pressure on each side. The braid should be tight enough to hold without pulling on the hair. Always keep the braid centered.
Squeeze the backbone with your hand to understand where you are
Step 7. Once you've reached three-quarters of the way, don't add new strands to the three sections of the braid
Finish by braiding the hair in the traditional way, without adding extra strands from the sides of the tail.
Step 8. Tighten an elastic at the bottom of the braid, or if you prefer a thread or string
For contests, it is preferable to use twine of the same color as the tail.
Step 9. Fold the end of the braid back on itself, tucking it inside the French braid
It will now have the shape of a noose. Secure it with a rubber band. Alternatively, you can make a single braid of the loop with a needle and thread, as described in the next step
Step 10. Sew the loop to secure it, tying the knot to the thread before starting
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First sew the end of the braid, passing the thread around it twice.
Plait a Horse's Tail Step 10Bullet1 -
Fold back the braid as already shown, securing the loop at the top with needle and thread.
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Sew a seam that runs down the center of the two braids. They will thus become a unique braid.
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Secure the end by passing the thread through a stitch.
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Trim the excess thread with a pair of scissors.
Plait a Horse's Tail Step 10Bullet5
Advice
- To protect the braid while traveling, you can use a headband or tail guard. When you take it off, do it gently rather than pulling it off.
- Make sure that the sections of the braid are even in thickness.
- Try to put the same pressure on each section when braiding.
- Before you succeed you will need to practice a lot. The ideal solution is to get help from an expert the first few times.
- Use a rubber band or string that is the same color as your horse's tail.
- Be careful to keep the braid in the center.
- If you are caring for a large horse, run it over the stable door before braiding the tail to prevent the horse from kicking you. In the case of a smaller horse or pony, you can place a plywood panel in front of the stable door.
- As you add strands, increase their thickness.
Warnings
- Don't leave the ponytail braided for too long. It can cause irritation to the horse who will try to rub it against the walls of the stall, ruining it.
- Do not use conditioner, it makes the hair too slippery to style.
- Remember that a horse can kick from any angle. It is essential to have a first aid kit on hand.
- To braid your horse's tail you will necessarily have to stand behind him, as any other position will not allow you to get a straight braid. A horse's kick can be deadly. Avoid crouching, bending over, or kneeling. Never get behind a horse known for its kicking.
- For a more refined result, tick off the end of the tail. The lack of symmetry can compromise the final effect of an otherwise perfect braiding.
