How a Mid Taper Fade Is Done: Step-by-Step Barbering Guide

The "Behind the Scenes"

Whether you are an aspiring barber or just curious why your haircut takes 45 minutes, understanding the mechanics of a mid taper fade helps you appreciate the craft (and spot a bad haircut before it's too late).

This isn't a DIY guide—please go to a professional. But here is the process.

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Step 1: The Guideline (The "Mid" Part)

The barber creates the first bald line (if doing a skin taper) or shortest guideline right at the top of the ear. This sets the "Mid" height.

• Low Taper would be below the ear.
• High Taper would be at the temple.

Step 2: Clearing the Bulk

Using a #3 or #4 guard, the barber clears the hair above the ear to connect the sides to the top. This creates the "canvas" for fading.

Step 3: The Fade (Blurring lines)

This is the magic. The barber moves down in guard sizes:

1. Open lever (no guard) to creating a section.
2. #1 Guard to blend into the bulk.
3. #0.5 Guard to erase the middle line.
4. Trimmer to clean the bottom.