Method of and apparatus for hairdressing

Abstract

The present invention provides an improved method of hairdressing for dreadlocks, the results of which are long lasting without the requirement of extensive and costly maintenance. The method curls locks internally using a length of thread ( 14 ) that is inserted inside each dreadlock ( 16 ) using a needle-like device ( 12 ) and attached to the dreadlock at two or more attachment points ( 18, 20 ). The thread ( 14 ) is tensioned between the two or more points ( 18, 20 ) so as to compress the hair between said points, thereby shortening the length of the dreadlock ( 16 ). This compression also allows for any weak points in the locks ( 16 ) to be condensed and strengthened. If enough shortening is applied, the dreadlock ( 16 ) will reach a point at which it cannot compress any further and will consequently curl or kink. The more tension applied, the more the dreadlock ( 16 ) will curl or kink. Such an effect will last as long as the thread remains inside the dreadlock ( 16 ), and will not be spoilt from every day wear or water exposure.

1 . A method of hairdressing for dreadlocks, the method comprising:
 securing a length of thread at a first anchor point along a length of a dreadlock;   feeding the thread through the dreadlock, the thread being tensioned; and   securing the thread at a second anchor point along the length of the dreadlock to thereby maintain tension in the thread between the first and second anchor points, wherein the tension in the thread causes the dreadlock to be compressed between the first and second anchor points.   
     
     
         2 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the first anchor point is at an end of the dreadlock distal to the scalp. 
     
     
         3 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the second anchor point is at an end of the dreadlock proximal to the scalp. 
     
     
         4 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the securing the thread at the first or second anchor points includes forming a plurality of backstitches in the dreadlock. 
     
     
         5 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the securing the thread at the first or second anchor points includes tying a knot in the thread. 
     
     
         6 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises securing the thread at a third anchor point. 
     
     
         7 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the passing the length of thread through the dreadlock comprises:
 attaching an elongate body to the thread; and   passing the elongate body through the dreadlock thereby pulling the thread with it.   
     
     
         8 . A method according to  claim 7 , wherein the elongate body is resilient or rigid. 
     
     
         9 . A method according to  claim 7 , wherein the elongate body has a pointed end. 
     
     
         10 . A method according to  claim 7 , wherein the elongate body is a needle and attaching the thread to the needle comprises threading the thread through an eye of the needle. 
     
     
         11 . A method according to  claim 7 , wherein the elongate body is at least 7 cm in length. 
     
     
         12 . A method according to  claim 7 , wherein the elongate body is at least 12 cm in length and alternatively at least 15 cm in length. 
     
     
         13 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the thread is made of one of: natural cotton, polyester, human hair or microfilament thread. 
     
     
         14 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the thread is impregnated with natural and/or essential oils for nourishing the dreadlock. 
     
     
         15 . A method according to  claim 1 , wherein the thread is impregnated with a fragrance. 
     
     
         16 . A kit of parts for a method of hairdressing for dreadlocks, the kit of parts comprising:
 a thread; and   a needle at least 7 cm in length.   
     
     
         17 . A kit of parts according to  claim 16 , wherein the thread is made of one of: natural cotton, polyester, human hair or microfilament thread. 
     
     
         18 . A kit of parts according to  claim 16 , wherein the thread is impregnated with natural and/or essential oils. 
     
     
         19 . A kit of parts according to  claim 16 , wherein the thread is impregnated with a fragrance. 
     
     
         20 . A method of hairdressing, comprising:
 threading a thread through a dreadlock having first and second positions along its length which are spaced apart by a first distance when the dreadlock is tensioned; and   attaching first and second portions of the thread to the respective first and second positions of the dreadlock,   wherein a second distance between the first and second portions is less than the first distance.   
     
     
         21 . (canceled)