African hair styles are known to feature intricate and creative designs that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the continent. Among the popular hair styling techniques is the use of pencils to create eye-catching patterns and beautiful masterpieces.










The art of pencil hair styling has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many African women embracing different techniques to create unique hairdos. African hair style pencils have become an essential tool in the hands of hairdressers and stylists worldwide, as they allow for precision, creativity, and flexibility.

This blog post highlights 20+ African hair style pencil ideas that are sure to inspire and ignite your hair styling creativity. From tribal markings to intricate braids and twists, the pencil hair styling technique is versatile enough to accommodate various hair types and lengths. Whether you’re looking to create a stunning up-do, a head-turning braid, or a trendy bob, our collection of pencil African hair style ideas is the perfect blend of classic and contemporary designs that are sure to leave you amazed.
1. Cornrow Pencil Braids
Cornrow pencil braids have become increasingly popular among women of African descent in recent years. This intricate hairstyle involves braiding hair in thin, precise rows, creating a sleek and polished look that can last for weeks. The use of pencil-thin braids adds an extra element of refinement, making this style a great choice for formal or professional settings.








Cornrow pencil braids can be styled in an array of patterns and designs, from simple and symmetrical to complex and geometric. This versatility allows for endless customized options, making it a popular choice among those who want a unique and stylish look. However, it is important to note that this hairstyle should be done by a professional stylist to achieve the best results and avoid damaging the hair.
2. Pencil Braids With Beads
Pencil braids with beads have become an increasingly popular African hairstyle in recent years. This style is characterized by small, tightly woven braids that are embellished with colorful beads for a unique and eye-catching look. The process of creating pencil braids is a delicate and time-consuming one, requiring a skilled stylist with experience working with small sections of hair.








However, the end result is well worth the effort, providing a protective style that can last for weeks. When adding beads to pencil braids, you can choose from a wide range of colors and styles to suit your personal taste, resulting in a look that is unique to you. Whether you’re trying out this style for the first time or are a seasoned pencil braid veteran, pencil braids with beads are a great way to showcase your personal style and embrace the beauty of African hair.
3. Pencil Braid Bob
The Pencil Braid Bob is a popular African hairstyle that features neatly woven braids or twists, with a pencil-like thickness. It is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn by women of all ages and is suitable for both formal and casual occasions. The style involves weaving small, tight braids all the way to the end of the hair to create a bouncy bob look.






The Pencil Braid Bob is low maintenance and can last for several weeks with proper care. This hairstyle can be accessorized with beads and hair jewelry to create a unique look and is perfect for those looking to switch up their hairstyle without sacrificing hair length. Overall, the Pencil Braid Bob is a stylish and practical hairstyle that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any look.
4. Pencil Braid Ponytail
The Pencil Braid Ponytail is a popular African hairstyle that has been making waves in recent years. This hairstyle involves creating a sleek and stylish ponytail by twisting hair into pencil-thin braids.

To achieve this look, hair is first parted down the middle and then divided into sections. Each section is then braided tightly from the scalp to the ends, creating a neat and uniform look. Once all braids are complete, the hair is pulled back into a high ponytail, with the braids forming a distinctive pattern. This look is versatile and perfect for any occasion, from casual events to formal affairs.
5. Pencil Braid Bun
The Pencil Braid Bun is a popular African hairstyle that has gained popularity over the years due to its elegant and versatile nature. This hairstyle is created by braiding the hair in pencil-sized strands and then pulling them together to form a bun. It is an excellent hairstyle for formal events, weddings, or even casual outings.

The pencil braid bun provides a sleek and polished look that is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of sophistication and class to their hairstyle. To achieve this hairstyle, you will need to have medium to long hair and some basic braiding skills. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily create the perfect pencil braid bun that will leave you feeling confident and stylish.
6. Pencil Braid Mohawk
One of the most unique and striking African hair styles is the pencil braid mohawk. With its intricate details and bold shape, this style is perfect for those looking to make a statement with their hair. The pencil braids, which are tightly twisted and styled to resemble the tip of a pencil, are arranged in a mohawk shape that runs from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck.






This style can be customized with different colors and lengths of braids to suit individual preferences, but it is best left to an experienced hairstylist who can ensure that the braids are installed safely and securely. With its combination of creativity and edginess, the pencil braid mohawk is a must-try for anyone looking to experiment with their hair.
7. Pencil Braid Updo
One of the most popular African hair styles using pencils is the Pencil Braid Updo. This elegant look is achieved by first creating small braids throughout the hair. Once the hair is braided, pencils are carefully woven into the braids to add a unique touch to the style.






The pencils can be placed in a variety of patterns, from a simple criss-cross formation to a more intricate design. This style is great for formal events or for those wanting to add a creative twist to their everyday look. With the right hair care and maintenance, the Pencil Braid Updo can last for several weeks, making it a practical and stylish choice for any occasion.
8. Pencil Braid Curls
Pencil braid curls are a popular African hairstyle that offers a unique and eye-catching appearance. To achieve this style, small braids are weaved close to the scalp in a pencil-like shape, and then curled using either flexi rods or perm rods. This intricate style requires patience and skill to create, as the braids must be made with precision to achieve the desired effect.






Additionally, unlike other African hairstyles, pencil braid curls require a longer time to achieve the final look. However, the finished result is worth the effort, as it offers a trendy, chic, and low-maintenance look that can last for several weeks with proper care. If you’re looking for a style that embodies a subtle African style, pencil braid curls should be on your list of styles to consider.
9. Pencil Braid Cornrows With Highlights
The pencil braid cornrows with highlights hairstyle is a unique African hair style that has gained popularity in recent times. This hairstyle involves creating thin, tight cornrows in a pencil-like shape, adding highlights to create a striking contrast and depth. This hairdo is perfect for any occasion or season and is suitable for women with long or medium hair.








The highlights can be customized depending on the natural hair color and skin tone of the individual, adding dimension and texture to the overall look. This style is both elegant and fashionable, making it a great choice for anyone looking to showcase a chic and modern appearance. Additionally, the Pencil braid cornrows with highlights are low maintenance, making them a practical and time-efficient choice for women on-the-go. Overall, this African hair style is a great way to express your creativity while staying true to your cultural roots.
10. Pencil Braid Bangs
One of the standout styles in our selection of African hair styles using pencils is the Pencil Braid Bangs. This elegant and intricate style involves creating a series of tight pencil braids across the front of the head with the aim of forming a beautifully styled bang.

This style can be done with a variety of hair lengths and texture, making it a versatile choice for many hair types. With its braided details and intricate styling, Pencil Braid Bangs make for a unique and eye-catching look that is sure to turn heads and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re looking to add some sophistication to your everyday look or are in search of a stylish look for a special occasion, this is a hair style that is worth considering.
11. Pencil Braid Half Up Half Down
The Pencil Braid Half Up Half Down is an elegant and versatile African hairstyle that combines two classic hair designs. The pencil braids, also known as mini twists, are thin and neat braids that provide a sleek and sophisticated look. The half up half down style, on the other hand, is a classic hairdo that involves tying the top section of hair up while leaving the lower half to flow freely.






The combination of these two styles creates a chic and trendy look suitable for any occasion. The pencil braids provide a unique texture to the hair, while the half up half down style adds volume and glamour. Overall, the Pencil Braid Half Up Half Down provides a stylish and practical hairstyle for individuals looking for a modern yet traditional African look.
12. Pencil Braid Side Swept Bangs
The Pencil Braid Side Swept Bangs is a stylish and trendy African hair style that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This hairstyle offers a unique combination of classic braids and a modern side-swept bang, creating a unique and chic look. To achieve this style, the hair is first braided into pencil-thin braids, which are then styled to one side to create the side-swept bangs effect.






This style offers a versatile and playful look, allowing it to be worn in a variety of settings, from formal occasions to more casual settings. Whether you have short or long hair, the Pencil Braid Side Swept Bangs can be customized to suit your unique style and preferences. With its eye-catching and head-turning appearance, this hair style is sure to make a statement wherever you go.
13. Pencil Braid Half Bun
The Pencil Braid Half Bun is a trendy African hairstyle that is both stylish and functional. This hairstyle is characterized by intricate pencil-thin braids that are sectioned and woven together to create a beautiful, half-up, half-down hairdo. The top half of the hair is pulled into a sleek bun while the bottom half is left to cascade down in loose, flowing curls.






This unique style is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual outings to formal events, as it exudes elegance and sophistication. Additionally, the Pencil Braid Half Bun hairstyle is renowned for its longevity, and with proper care, it can last for weeks, making it ideal for individuals looking for low-maintenance yet stylish hairdos.
14. Pencil Braid Pixie Cut
The Pencil Braid Pixie Cut is a chic and stylish African hairstyle that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This hairstyle is an excellent option for African women who want to keep their hair short and easy to manage, without sacrificing on style. The Pencil Braid Pixie Cut involves braiding the hair very tightly, creating a smooth and sleek finish that is perfect for those with short or fine hair.

The braids are then styled into a cropped cut, often with a dramatic side-swept fringe. This hairstyle is versatile and can be dressed up or down, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. The Pencil Braid Pixie Cut is a great option for women who want a low maintenance hairstyle that still looks fashionable and on-trend.
15. Twist In Front Hairstyles For Black Hair
The Twist in front hairstyles for black hair is a stylish and versatile African hair style that is easy to create and can be worn for various occasions. This hairstyle features a braided headband that creates a stylish accessory, while the rest of the hair is styled with pencil-sized braids that are sleek and elegant. To achieve this look, the hair is sectioned and braided using a weaving pattern that creates a criss-cross effect.






Once the Twist in front hairstyles for black hair is complete, the individual braids are wrapped around the edges of the headband, creating a neat and tidy finish. This African hair style is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance look that is still chic and sophisticated. Whether you’re running errands or attending a formal event, the Twist in front hairstyles for black hair is a go-to style that elevates any look
16.Side Braid With Pencil
The “Side braid with pencil” is a stylish and edgy African hair style that has been trending in recent years. It involves creating a faux hawk shape using intricate pencil braids positioned in a unique pattern. The style is versatile in that it can be modified and customized to suit the individual’s preference and facial features.






The “Side braid with pencil ” is perfect for any occasion and can be dressed up or down to match the desired look. It’s a great way to express yourself creatively while still maintaining a professional appearance. To achieve this look, it is important to work with an experienced hairstylist who has a good understanding of contemporary African hair styles.
17. Pencil Braid High Ponytail
The Pencil Braid High Ponytail hairstyle is a popular choice among African women who love a classic updo. The hairstyle features thin, neat braids that are tightly wrapped around the base of a high ponytail. The finished look gives off a clean and polished appearance that is perfect for formal events or everyday wear. The pencil braid technique used in this hairstyle involves using very thin braids, almost the width of a pencil, which are intertwined to create a beautiful texture and an understated elegance.






The style is easily customizable and can be achieved on virtually any hair length or texture, making it a versatile option for women who want to experiment with their hairstyle without going overboard. Overall, the Pencil Braid High Ponytail is a timeless hairstyle that has remained popular among African women for generations, and it’s easy to see why.
18. Pencil Braid Low Ponytail
The Pencil Braid Low Ponytail is a unique and stylish hairdo that combines the traditional African braiding style with modern fashion trends. This look is achieved by creating thin and tight braids, commonly referred to as pencil braids, which are then arranged into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck. The style is particularly versatile, as it can be customized to suit different face shapes and hair types.






The Pencil Braid Low Ponytail is perfect for those with long hair who are looking for a protective style that is easy to maintain and stylish. It can be worn for both casual and formal occasions and is a go-to hairstyle for many African women. If you are seeking a unique and trendy hairstyle that celebrates African roots, the Pencil Braid Low Ponytail is definitely worth considering.
19. Pencil Braid with Braid Out
The “Pencil Braid with Braid Out” is a trendy African hair style that features small, tight braids that resemble the size of a pencil. To achieve this look, hair is first parted into small sections and then tightly braided from the root to the tip. Once all of the braids are completed, the hair is left to set for several hours or overnight, which allows the braids to fully form and hold their shape.






After the braids have fully set, they can be unraveled to create a defined, textured braid out. This style is a great choice for those looking for a low maintenance option that still looks stylish and put together. It can be dressed up or down for any occasion and is suitable for all hair types. Overall, the “Pencil Braid with Braid Out” is a must-try style for anyone looking to experiment with African hair styles.
20. Pencil Braid with Curl Out
The pencil braid with curl out is a trendy and stylish African hairstyle that has captured the attention of many women. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a unique and eye-catching look. The braids are styled into intricate rows and then the ends are curled to create a soft and playful look.






The curls add volume and bounce, making the hair appear fuller and more luscious. Additionally, the pencil braid with curl out style is low maintenance and long-lasting, which makes it perfect for people with busy lifestyles. Overall, the pencil braid with curl out is a great way for women to embrace their natural beauty while still having a chic and fashionable hairstyle.
21. Pencil kinky Hairstyles In Kenya
When it comes to African hair styling, the Pencil kinky hairstyles in Kenya may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, with its slender shape and precise point, the pencil can actually be a versatile tool for creating intricate and detailed hairstyles.








From creating precise parts in braids and weaves to adding decorative flourishes like dots and swirls, a sharp pencil can be just the tool you need to take your hair styling game to the next level. When selecting a pencil for hair styling, be sure to choose one with a smooth, even lead that won’t smudge or smear easily. With a little practice and experimentation, you may be surprised at just how much you can accomplish with this Pencil kinky hairstyles in Kenya.

In conclusion, African hair is rich in diversity and creativity. People across the continent have been styling their hair with pencils to create unique looks that are traditional, modern, and everything in between. The pencil technique is not only fashionable but also a great way to protect natural hair without sacrificing style. With so many beautiful and innovative African hair pencil designs to choose from, everyone can find inspiration to try out a new look and embrace their cultural heritage.





