ends

well, you can get orthodonic bands... I use 1/4 inch bands in mine, but if your braids are that small, there`s also 1/8 inch bands. if you really like your braids, you can seal the ends permanetly, which would mean a trim every time you took out your braids or rebraided. this is a good way to keep your hair the same length, though, if you like that. you braid, seal, and then when it grows out, trim off the seal, and rebraid. I don`t know where you can get the ortho bands if none of your friends have braces, but i`d look around in the dental secton in stores. and if that fails, you can find some low-gauge wire and wrap the ends in that tightly. be careful that you wrap it well, especially at the ends of the wire, because it will catch. you can also put beads on before you wire or string them on the wire for a little added flair.