Clipper Cutting Techniques for Black Men, Vol. 1

Clippers in the hands of a skilled barber can create a work of art—and Charles McCoy is one of those artists, taking his Chicago-bred skills to Hollywood, where he sculpts the hair of rich and famous black men. This instructional video begins with the Even All Around Cut, which provides the blueprint techniques for most of the styles to come. Combining one basic snap-on tool (the edge guard, which comes in varying lengths) and one blade-length adjustment, McCoy demonstrates the multiple passes needed to make even the simplest-looking cuts turn out just right, and he advises being particularly careful around the cowlick area—one bad move can create a premature bald spot and lessen the likelihood of a repeat customer! As McCoy says, “Remember, you can take it off, but you can't put it back on.” Also demonstrated are techniques for giving beards, goatees, and sideburns sharp, neat edges; working with different hair lengths and textures; correcting a haircut; and building clientele. Volume 1 also features the Fade Cut, Caesar Cut, Afro Cut, Flat Top Cut, and Quovatus Cut. (Volume 2, separately available, features five haircuts: Mini Afro Cut, Perimeter Fade Cut, Tapered Cut, Bald Fade Cut, and the Half Fade Cut.) Recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)