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How to Make Victorian Hair Art

“Hair is at once the most delicate and last of our materials, and survives us like love,” said the popular 19th-century women's magazine Godey’s Lady’s Book. Hair was used during the Victorian era to make jewelry such as bracelets, earrings, brooches and rings. These personalized pieces were a way to mourn those who had passed away as well as tokens of affection between loved ones. These days, hair art is making a comeback as a type of folk art and can be seen exhibited at museums and in private collections.

Things You'll Need

  • Lock of hair, about 6 inches long
  • 4 or more small rubber bands
  • Bracelet clasp
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bundle the lock of clean, dry hair and secure at one end with a rubber band. The hair can be either human or from a doll, and the bundled hair should be about the width of a pencil.

    • 2

      Separate the hair into three equal sections.

    • 3

      Braid the first section of hair, securing it at the bottom with a rubber band. Do the same for the other two sections so you are left with three thin braids.

    • 4

      Braid the three thin braids together to create a thick cord.

    • 5

      Carefully remove the rubber bands at each end and replace with bracelet clasps, being sure to fit the clasps securely around the braids. Wire clasps can be purchased at any craft store and should be tightly wrapped around the hair to secure it.

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