Keeping Traditions Alive ( Learning How to Cornrow )
- ALL AGES
Come join us and learn the art of cornrowing hair, keeping this beautiful tradition alive for generations to come!
Date and time
Location
DUPP&SWAT
1824 Statesville Avenue #105 Charlotte, NC 28206About this event
- Event lasts 4 hours
- ALL AGES
- Free venue parking
Join us for a hands-on, community-centered workshop led by artist, educator, and hairstylist Shanice McKinney that explores cornrowing as both an artistic practice and a cultural legacy.
Cornrows are more than just a hairstyle. It is a form of storytelling, cultural preservation, and resistance that has been passed down through generations across African and African Diaspora communities. From intricate patterns to everyday utility, cornrows have served as maps, symbols of tribal affiliation, expressions of identity, and strategies for survival. In this workshop, we will honor that lineage while learning the basic techniques of cornrowing in a welcoming, supportive space.
Introduction and History of Cornrows
Learn about the deep roots of braiding traditions, their regional significance, and how they’ve evolved across the Black diaspora.
Live Demonstration
Shanice will guide you through the fundamentals of cornrowing, including how to part, grip, braid, and control tension using a mannequin head. A visual projection will be provided if equipment is available.
Hands-On Practice
You’ll get plenty of time to try cornrowing yourself.
Participants will rotate every 15 minutes in small groups using mannequin heads.
Mirrors will be available if you'd like to practice braiding your own hair.
A limited number of mannequin heads will be provided.
You are also encouraged to bring your own baby doll head or a practice partner if you'd like to work one-on-one.
We will provide combs, brushes, hair clips, and rubber bands for everyone to use.
🥤 Light refreshments will be provided.
All skill levels are welcome.
📌 What to Bring (optional but encouraged):
A mannequin head (baby doll head) or practice partner
Frequently asked questions
Camp North End offers free parking across several convenient locations: Boileryard Lot: 1824 Statesville Avenue Keswick Lot: 1701 North Graham Street Crossroads Lot: 1801 North Graham Street Mount Lot: 1774 Statesville Avenue
We will provide combs, brushes, hair clips, and rubber bands for everyone. However, you are encouraged to bring:A baby doll head/mannequin head if you have one A practice partner if you’d like to braid on someone else A notebook if you'd like to take notes There will be a limited number of mannheads
Yes! Light refreshments and snacks will be available during the break. Feel free to bring your own water bottle or snack if you have dietary restrictions.
Absolutely! This workshop is open to all skill levels—whether you're braiding for the first time or brushing up on old skills.
Yes! Friends, family members, or practice partners are welcome. Children 12 and up can attend if they’re actively participating and accompanied by an adult.
No worries! The session is designed to teach the basics of cornrowing step-by-step. We’ll have mirrors for practicing on yourself, and you’ll rotate with others using mannequins, so everyone gets time to try.
Yes! Shanice McKinney and her assistants will walk around the room throughout the hands-on session to offer personal guidance, tips, and support.