Welcome to FreeSalonEducation! This guide breaks down the essential steps for a modern shorter haircut that balances precision cutting with soft, wearable texture. Learn how to utilize both haircutting scissors and a razor for a seamless, dynamic result.

 

1. Sectioning: The Blueprint for Precision

Start with a simple, effective hair sectioning plan that respects the head shape and hair density.

  • Center Parting: Comb hair straight back and part straight down the center back.

  • Divide the Curves: Section the head where the main curves happen to manage different densities.

  • The Crown Line: Find the critical division point by drawing a line straight down from the crown of the head. This separates the heaviest and most dynamic areas.

 

2. The Power of Horizontal Cutting & Elevation

We use horizontal sections on the lower half, but remember: the weight isn't determined by the parting—it's determined by elevation!

  • The Elevation Secret: Many stylists drop their hands when cutting horizontally, creating a heavy line. To avoid this, maintain consistent elevation for a lighter line.

  • The Scoop Technique: When combing, use your final comb-through to scoop the hair up slightly. This ensures the section reaches the exact, controlled point of elevation as your guide.

  • Why it Matters: If you elevate too much, you create layers. If you elevate too little, the line is heavy. Find that perfect balance for a diffused, precise perimeter.

  • Tip: Work with thin, half-inch sections so you can see your guide clearly through the hair.

 

3. Precision Point Cutting

As you move up the head, use point cutting to build in softness and subtle texture right from the start.

  • Technique: Cut the hair in your hand, starting in the center. The precision of the line comes from the angle of your fingers and your consistent elevation.

  • Goal: Create a clean line while diffusing the ends for natural movement.

4. Blending and Texture with the Razor

Once the bottom is cut, we move to blending and texturizing the hair for that modern, soft finish.

  1. Blow Dry First: Blow dry the bottom sections smooth. This sets the base for the razor work.

  2. Softening with the Razor: Use a tri-razor with no pressure to gently slide through the ends of the hair dropping over the base. This softens the perimeter and creates a seamless connection.

  3. Adding Dimension: Use texturizing shears (like a 25% shear) to "etch in" texture on the side sections. This creates spacing and movement without taking length.

 

5. Final Styling & Product

Bring the cut to life by showcasing the texture you’ve created.

  • Products: Use a lightweight sculpting foam and a heat protectant like Hot Off The Press before heat styling.

  • Iron Work: Use a flat iron to detail the shape, adding tension to the very ends for enhanced movement.

  • Final Touch: Introduce more spacing and softness by slightly sliding the scissor down the hair shaft in select areas.

Mastering this combination of precision cutting and razor techniques is the key to creating a beautiful, high-demand short hair design.

👉 Get the FSE Tri Razor and more professional tools at [https://freesaloneducation.com/collections/all-scissors]

👉 Download the FSE Digital Haircut System for comprehensive education (https://freesaloneducation.com/products/fse-digital-haircutting-system-1)

November 03, 2025 — Austin Rodenbaugh

Comments

Janet said:

Wish your videos were around when I was actively cutting hair! You make it a combination or art, architecture and method. Your cocktail of education adds fun and wisdom to cutting hair.
You have earned your PHD through your excellent videos and expertise in sharing your knowledge. At 72, no one is asking me to cut their hair. So, instead I just watch your videos and pretend I’m you!!

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