The Townhouse
Step by step guide on how to cut short hair with the three-tier layering technique, from Lee Stafford, myhairdressers.com
"The Townhouse" is a three-tier, clever but simple, layering technique that could easily be mistaken for graduation. It is an absolute proven salon winner. Alter the lengths for a multitude of different looks.
Before: Lauren before the cut.
Step 1: The top is sectioned off into a classic horse shoe, running from a recession, with the recession running through to a curve underneath the crown.
Step 2: The middle section is sectioned off from the top of the ear, either side running through the occipital bone. This gives you three sections, for the three tiers.
Step 3: Start with a vertical section in the back bottom panel. Pull this section square to the head and cut a flat line.
Step 4: Continue this process, taking subsequent parallel sections and using the previous section as a guide.
Step 5: Cross-check your work.
Step 6: Repeat this process on the second side.
Step 7: Dry off and iron the worked panel, then cross-check and refine.
Step 8: Next, point into the internal shape to diffuse the edge.
Step 9: Now work on the second tier in the middle area, using a vertical section. This tier is disconnected from the underneath. Ensure that the top of this section is cut shorter in order that it does not lay over the previous underneath panel, keeping the shape flat.
Step 10: Subsequent sections are worked vertically, using the same technique.
Step 11: Now cross-check your work.
Step 12: Now repeat this process on the other side.
Step 13: Dry, iron and cross-check your work.
Step 14: Use a pointing technique to refine the shape.
Step 15: Next work with the mid sections - first drying and ironing. Proceed with vertical sections, using the previous section as a guide, cutting a parallel line to the head all the way through to the hairline.
Step 16: Now point into the internal shape.
Step 17: Repeat this process on the second side.
Step 18: Bring down the top section, assess the underneath length and cut a section, leaving the top portion disconnected.
Step 19: Check that the internal length through the top of the section does not overhang the internal length through the bottom of the section.
Step 20: Parallel sections are taken in the top area, using the same technique on both sides.
Step 21: Using the crown area as a guide, take horizontal sections and cut a square line. Repeat this process into the front hairline.
Step 22: Now point into the existing shape in the crown, working forward horizontally throughout the top section.
Step 23: Next refine the perimeter with various freehand techniques.
Finish: A classic 3 tier layer hairstyle that is a real salon champion. Commercial and effortlessly wearable.
Text and photos by MHD. Subscribe to view the training video!
See also:
How to cut a short haircut with internal layering
How to cut a short uniform layer haircut
How to cut a short haircut with graduated layering