A mobile or traveling design line is a moveable guide that consists of a small
amount of previously cut hair, which is used as a length guide to cut subsequent
partings. A mobile design line is used to cut graduated, layered and square forms.
Crosschecking
Crosschecking is used to check a haircut for balance and accuracy. This technique is performed by
using the opposite parting pattern that was used to cut the hair. For example, if you've cut the hair
horizontally, you will crosscheck it vertically. In addition to crosschecking your haircut after the
service, you may wish to crosscheck it periodically throughout the haircut in order to monitor your-
self and avoid mistakes.
Texturizing
Texturizing, which is sometimes referred to as thinning, involves cutting shorter lengths within
the form to reduce bulk and create support, closeness, fullness, mobility and visual texture in
the haircut without shortening the length or removing weight.
Texturizing can be done with a
razor, shear or taper shear to create various results, depending on the type of tool you use and the posi-
tion of the tool in relation to the hair. For instance, when thinning the hair with the razor, positioning
the blade flatter and reducing the pressure applied will decrease the amount of hair removed. As men-
tioned earlier, when you use the razor, the hair should be damp to wet. On the other hand, the hair may
be damp to dry when shears or taper shears are used. Generally there are three areas of the strand
where texturizing techniques are performed, which are the base, midstrand and ends. In addition to
cutting with taper shears, texturizing techniques include razor etching, slithering and razor rotation.
Base Texturizing
Base texturizing, which is performed between
the scalp up to 1" (2.5 cm) away from the
scalp, creates expansion and fullness. This
technique removes weight at the base area,
allowing the hair to lift away from the head.
The shorter lengths support the longer lengths
to encourage natural texture and movement.
Midstrand Texturizing
Midstrand texturizing, which is performed
between the end of the base area up to 1"
(2.5 cm) before the ends, reduces bulk and
weight. The shorter lengths support the longer
lengths to create fullness or a contoured effect.
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HAIRCUTTING
9
Base
Midstrand
