In bantu knots, the hair is usually sectioned, twisted then wrapped around continuously at the base to create a stacked knot-like appearance. Plus, it’s one of the best protective hairstyles. Bantu knots have been around since time immemorial dating back to the 2nd millennium up to the 1500CE. This was around the time the Bantus of the South West Africa origin were spreading out through Southern, Eastern and Central Africa in what was the Bantu migration.
Currently, the Bantu speaking community are found in different parts of Africa from Eastern, Southern to the Central parts. The bantu speak more than five hundred variations of the same language. In Jamaica, bantu knots are also known as Chiny bumps. Let’s first look at the frequently asked questions about bantu knots before we dive into how to make bantu knots with natural hair, locs, braids and short natural hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bantu Knots a Protective Hairstyle?
Yes! Bantu knots are a protective hairstyle which means it’s not bad for the hair. However, you need to ensure the rubber bands are not secured tightly. If you are going to straighten your hair before making bantu knots ensure you apply a heat protectant and avoid using too much heat to prevent hair breakage or damage.
Who Can Wear Bantu Knots?
Anyone can wear bantu knots regardless of the type of hair whether relaxed or not. Besides, you can even wear bantu knots if you have locs or braided your hair.
How Long do Bantu Knots Last?
You can leave bantu knots in for up to five days if the whole idea is to knot them out eventually. However, the period depends on how much time your hair takes to form the curls.
Can I Sleep with Bantu Knots?
Yes. But they are slightly uncomfortable. The good news is that you can make a few adjustments if you are looking to sleep comfortably.
Are Bantu Knots Done on Dry or Wet Hair?
Bantu knots usually look better on dry, straightened hair. On the other hand, doing bantu knots on wet hair will not give you best results and is equally harder to do.
What Products Can I Use for Bantu Knots?
You’ll need a number of things depending on your desired length, volume and thickness including:
- A rat tail comb
- Rubber bands
- Crotchet Needle
- Shine n jam conditioning gel
- Edge control brush
- Prestretched braiding hair
How to Make Bantu Knots on Short Natural Hair
Part your stretched or straightened hair into different sections according to your personal specifications.
Apply the shine n jam conditioning gel at the base of the sectioned parts and use a brush to tame the flyaways. Secure the parted sectioned using the rubber bands. Ensure you oil the rubber bands to prevent any damage and hair breakage.
For the next step, you can use three different methods to achieve the same results;
- Braid the hair into your parted sections
- Use the crotchet needle to loop in the braiding hair
- Section the braiding hair into two different parts using a rubber band then tie it around the base of the parted hair section
In this case, we are going to use the last method – sectioning the braiding hair to different parts and using a rubber band to secure it at the base.
Tie the braiding hair on the parted section then twist or braid it to the length you desire. Take the braided or twisted hair and wrap it around the base moving upwards. Ensure you tuck what remains to the base securely. Repeat the above process for all the other parted sections.
Use edge control to lay your edges after you’re done.
How to Make Bantu Knots on 4C Hair
If your hair is short, use a rat tail comb to part your hair into different sections keeping the total number of bantu knots you want on your head in mind. They shouldn’t be too many.
Apply shine n jam conditioning gel or any type of hair gel that works best on your 4C hair on the parted sections then use a brush to tame the flyaways for fresh and neat look.
Use rubber bands to tie the sectioned parts and braid your hair to your desired length using a braiding hair of your choice as you would regular box braids.
After you’re done braiding, use a freeze spray on the remaining braiding hair and twist it. Take the braided or twisted extension and wrap it around the base going upwards to create a knot-like appearance. Tuck the remaining hair into the base.
Repeat the process for all the other parted sectioned. Lay your edges using edge control after you’re done.
How to Make Bantu Knots on Locs
You can watch a step by step tutorial on YouTube.
How to Make Bantu Knots with Natural Hair
If you are looking to give the bantu knots a jumbo size look, you can choose to use braiding hair even if your hair is long. You can’t achieve the jumbo size look bantu knots with natural hair without using braiding hair unless you have super thick hair.
Remember, braiding hair is only used to add volume to the bantu knots and make them look better.
Basics of Bantu Knots
The process of making bantu knots is the same regardless of the length and type of your hair. Save for the braids and locs since you don’t need to add extra braiding hair, the parting, sectioning, twisting, wrapping around the base and tucking in the ends is pretty much the same.
Those who prefer small bantu knots can skip the part where you need to add extra braiding hair for volume. People only use some braiding hair to increase the volume of their bantu knots. Let’s now look at the results of different bantu knots now that you are conversant with how to make bantu knots with natural hair, locs and braids.
Bantu Knots with Natural Hair, Braids and Locs
We’ve got a whopping 25 different ways to rock Bantu knots hairstyles. Whether you’re sporting braids, locs, natural hair, or even a sassy wig, there’s a Bantu knot style for every texture and taste.
So, unleash your inner Bantu knot aficionado and explore the world of endless possibilities. From intricate designs to playful variations, these hairstyles will have you turning heads and feeling like a true hair guru.
Remember, it’s all about celebrating your unique style and embracing the beauty of diversity. So grab your combs, your hair products, and slay those Bantu knots in every fabulous way imaginable!
1. Bantu Knots on Locs
Take your loc game to the next level with Bantu knots! These funky little knots woven into your luscious locs are the perfect way to add some extra sass and flair to your hairstyle. Prepare to rock a look that’s a fusion of tradition and modern chicness, and let those Bantu knots on your locs be the star of the show!
2. Medium Bantu Knots
Say hello to the perfect size—medium Bantu knots! These little beauties are not too big and not too small, but just right for achieving that fabulous Bantu knot style. Whether you’re rocking them on short hair or long locks, medium Bantu knots are all about adding that touch of playfulness and style to your look.
3. Braided Bantu Knots
Take your Bantu knots to a whole new level of awesomeness with braided Bantu knots! These stunning knots with braided sections bring a whole new level of intricacy and creativity to your hairstyle. Whether you opt for simple braids or intricate patterns, braided Bantu knots are all about making a statement and showing your artistic side. Prepare to be a walking masterpiece!
4. Medium Part Bantu Knots
Who says your hair has to be all symmetrical? Medium part Bantu knots break the rules and add a touch of asymmetrical flair to your style. With a bold and daring parting, these knots take your look to new heights of edginess and individuality. Rock that unique part and show the world your fearless sense of style!
5. Messy Bantu Knots
Experience the carefree and effortless vibe with messy Bantu knots. This style is all about letting your hair do its own thing, with knots that are intentionally tousled and imperfect. Messy Bantu knots exude a laid-back and casual charm, perfect for those days when you want natural beauty without too much fuss. Rock that effortlessly cool look with your fabulous, slightly disheveled knots!
6. Small Part Bantu Knots
It’s time to go small and make a big impact with small part Bantu knots! These tiny knots with their unique parting give your hairstyle a delightful and intricate touch. Perfect for adding a dash of sophistication and elegance, small part Bantu knots are all about attention to detail and impeccable sense of style. Stun with those perfectly formed, small part knots!
7. Large Part Bantu Knots
Go big or go home! Large part Bantu knots bring the drama and make a bold statement. With a wide and noticeable parting, these knots demand attention and exude confidence. Perfect for those days when you want to rock a head-turning hairstyle that’s impossible to ignore. Unleash your inner diva and slay with those striking, large part Bantu knots!
8. Extra Large Bantu Knots
Go big or go home with extra large Bantu knots! These knots take the concept of volume to a whole new level, giving your hair an impressive and voluminous appearance. Perfect for those days when you want to rock a hairstyle that defies gravity and makes a statement, extra large Bantu knots are all about embracing your bold and fearless side. Get ready to turn heads and let your hair take center stage!
9. Bantu Knots on Blonde Hair
Blondes have more fun, especially when it comes to Bantu knots! Let your golden locks shine with the magic of Bantu knots on blonde hair. Whether you’re rocking natural blonde hair or you’ve added a touch of sunshine through coloring, Bantu knots bring a playful and eye-catching element to your look.
10. Large Bantu Knots
Make a statement with large Bantu knots that demand attention! These knots with their substantial size create a striking and bold hairstyle that’s impossible to ignore. Whether you’re going for an edgy and fierce look or a chic and trendy vibe, large Bantu knots are here to help you rock that head-turning style. Prepare to unleash your inner diva and slay with those captivating, large knots!
11. Bantu Knots with a Heart Part
Wear your heart on your head with Bantu knots featuring a heart-shaped part! This adorable and whimsical variation adds a touch of love and sweetness to your hairstyle. Perfect for special occasions or just for expressing your playful side, Bantu knots with a heart part are all about spreading joy and celebrating the love for your hair. Wear that heart-shaped part and let your locks radiate with happiness!
12. Large Bantu Knots on Natural Hair
Try large Bantu knots that celebrate your unique texture and volume. These knots on natural hair create a stunning and empowering hairstyle. Whether you’re rocking coils, curls, or kinks, large Bantu knots add a touch of elegance and fierceness to your look. Show your natural beauty and slay those knots with confidence!
13. Medium Bantu Knots on Natural Hair
Unleash the beauty of your natural hair with medium Bantu knots! These knots on your glorious coils, curls, or kinks are all about embracing your unique texture and rocking a hairstyle that celebrates your natural beauty. Whether you’re going for a cute and casual look or a chic and sophisticated vibe, medium Bantu knots on natural hair are the perfect way to highlight your individuality and slay those knots with confidence!
14. Bantu Knots on Kids
Let the little ones shine with adorable Bantu knots hairstyles! These knots on kids’ hair bring a touch of cuteness and style to their locks. Whether your little diva is rocking curls, braids, or any natural hair texture, Bantu knots on kids are a fun and playful way to amp up their hairstyle game. Let those Bantu knots be a reflection of their vibrant personality!
15. Bantu Knots on Natural Hair
Show the magic of Bantu knots on your natural hair! These knots are all about celebrating the beauty of your curls, coils, or waves and enhancing your natural texture. Whether you’re rocking a wash-and-go style or a twist-out, Bantu knots add an extra touch of charm and elegance to your look. Wear your natural crown and let those Bantu knots be the ultimate accessory to your fabulous locks!
16. Bantu Knots on Blonde Dyed Hair
Blondes have more fun, especially with Bantu knots! Take your blonde hair to new heights of style and creativity with Bantu knots. Whether you’ve added a touch of blonde through dyeing or you’re rocking a vibrant platinum hue, Bantu knots on blonde hair bring a playful and eye-catching element to your look. Let your golden locks shine through the perfect fusion of blonde beauty and Bantu knot brilliance!
17. Bantu Knots on Dreadlocks
Fuse tradition and trendiness with Bantu knots on your fabulous dreadlocks! These knots woven into your locks create a mesmerizing and captivating hairstyle that pays homage to the roots of Bantu knots while adding a contemporary twist. Whether you’re rocking thick, long dreads or stylish thin ones, Bantu knots on dreadlocks are here to make a bold statement and unique style. Turn heads and let your knots be a testament to your love for your locks!
18. Heart Part Bantu Knots
Wear your heart on your head with Bantu knots featuring a heart-shaped part! This adorable and whimsical variation adds a touch of love and sweetness to your hairstyle. Whether you’re rocking natural hair, braids, or even a wig, Bantu knots with a heart part are all about spreading joy and celebrating the love for your hair. Flaunt that heart-shaped part and let your locks radiate with happiness!
19. Bantu Knots on Red Dreadlocks
Prepare to set the world ablaze with Bantu knots on your fiery red dreadlocks! These knots on your vibrant and fierce locks create a striking and captivating hairstyle that demands attention. Whether you’re rocking long, flowing red dreads or bold and short ones, Bantu knots on red dreadlocks exude confidence and make a bold statement. Unleash your inner fire and let your knots be the epitome of strength and style!
20. Bantu Knots on a Wig
Who says Bantu knots are only for natural hair? Time to rock those knots on a wig and enjoy the versatility of your style! Whether you’re experimenting with different colors, textures, or lengths, Bantu knots on a wig are a fun and creative way to elevate your look.
Bantu Knots: The Dos and Don’ts
- Do not use rubber bands on your hair before applying oil to prevent breakage.
- Avoid tying the rubber bands too tight at the roots to prevent scalp discomfort.
- If you have short hair, use braiding hair or extensions to create jumbo bantu knots. • For a bantu knot-out hairstyle, leave the knots in for a week or more for the best results.
Taking Care of Your Bantu Knots
- Protect your knots by wearing a silk bonnet or scarf to bed.
- Keep your scalp moisturized by applying your favorite oil occasionally.
- Preserve the look of your bantu knots by sleeping on your side or face.
Don’t forget to explore more inspiring bantu knots hairstyles on our Pinterest board! Get ready to rock those fabulous knots with confidence and style.
Conclusion
Bantu knots are a versatile and stylish hairstyle that can be embraced by anyone. By following the dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your bantu knots experience is both beautiful and comfortable. Remember to take care of your knots by moisturizing your scalp and protecting them while you sleep. With a little creativity and care, you can rock various bantu knots hairstyles and make a bold statement with your hair.
Go ahead and explore the world of bantu knots, try different variations, and express your unique style. Let your knots be a reflection of your personality and embrace the beauty and cultural significance that they hold. Get ready to rock those knots and slay with confidence!
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