THE LAYERED HAIRCUT
 by Steve Woodham

LAYERING HAIR (Defined)  "Layering" is the most commonly used method of cutting hair. It is also known as "feathering" because you can sometimes see the scissor lines or "feathers" when the hair is brushed back. Trimming, framing, or outlining, as covered in the previous chapter ALWAYS cuts length. Layering the hair always cuts bulkiness. Layering hair can involve cutting the hair from all over the head instead of just cutting the end length.  The best way to clarify this is to imagine having a type of magnet that would lift the hair straight out from the scalp 90°. Or better yet, perhaps you can remember a cartoon in which the character is electrocuted and his hair would stand straight out on end.

Imagine this electrified look.

To layer hair, you will pick the hair up in small sections, all around the head, and cut some off.

For shorter length hairstyles, the layers should be angled more inward when cutting, like the illustrations:

For longer hair, the layers should be angled in a fashion that will leave more hair covering the ears. The hair should be layer cut in a "roof top" pattern like the illustration below.