[Kayty]

To stop the end sticking out -
When you plait down, try trimming the end off (trim it on an angle so you won't get 'chunky mane' after) and then turning it over at the end and securing with a rubber band.
Then when you go to fold it up, make a little hole at the base of the plait, and push the end through from the top. This will hold it in more securely and it will sit neater.

Also, make sure your horse has a well pulled mane - there is nothing more difficult than trying to plait a thick, long, unruly mane!!

 

[Kayty]

Whatever you do never cut the end of the hair off you will end up with a rough looking mane!



The mane needs to be no longer than 8" and pulled not cut.

Divide the mane with braids for as many braids as you want.

Plait the first down to the end and then place a band about 3 - 4" on the braid keeping hold of one end, with the band on the braid fold the end hair up once, twist the band over the fold and fold again until all the hair is caught in the band and then you can fold it under to form a button braid.

Not if you plait right to the end of cut a jagged sideways edge :wink: Trust me on that one, I've been plaiting like that for years (and not for pony club levels comps either mind you) and have never had a rough looking mane. It's only a few mm taken off the end, just the scraggly 'loose' hairs that poke out.

But to get the length to plait - yes it needs to be pulled.

 

[Kayty]

That is true, I am only competing a maximum of 2 x each month so it doesn't make any difference.
I also fold the end over, but take off the scraggly hairs before folding it over to neaten it.

 

[Kayty]

Its best if you can do them the morning of the comp, they will look neater and your horse will have the night without feeling like it's wearing a tight pony tail!
But if you're competing early in the morning, plait them down the night before and then all you need to do is bobble them in the morning.

 

[Kayty]

7.30 isn't early