About this course
The Shannon Cut is not a haircut you follow, it is a haircut you read. Designed around natural curl movement and individual growth patterns, it asks you to observe first and cut second.
The cut progresses in three stages. First, we remove length, then building the shape through over-directed sections to a stationary reference point. Then, once the hair is dry, we refine using a freehand slicing technique to soften the ends and personalise the result.
What You Will Learn
- How to read a natural curl pattern and adapt your sectioning accordingly
- How over-direction creates softness, movement, and balance
- How a stationary reference point controls weight, volume, and flow
- How elevation influences the silhouette
- How to refine and personalise using a freehand slicing technique
- How to develop your eye as the most important tool in the salon
The sectioning pattern was designed around Shannon's own natural growth pattern. Your client will be different. Use the maping and sectioning as your guide and let your eye do the rest.
The Shannon Cut teaches you to work with the curl, understand its behaviour, and create shapes that feel natural, balanced, and uniquely suited to the individual sitting in your chair.
Shannon Cut Full Length Video
The Shannon Cut is not a haircut you follow, it is a haircut you read. Designed around natural curl movement and individual growth patterns, it asks you to observe first and cut second.
The cut progresses in three stages. First, we remove length, then building the shape through over-directed sections to a stationary reference point. Then, once the hair is dry, we refine using a freehand slicing technique to soften the ends and personalise the result.
What You Will Learn
How to read a natural curl pattern and adapt your sectioning accordingly
How over-direction creates softness, movement, and balance
How a stationary reference point controls weight, volume, and flow
How elevation influences the silhouette
How to refine and personalise using a freehand slicing technique
How to develop your eye as the most important tool in the salon
The sectioning pattern was designed around Shannon's own natural growth pattern. Your client will be different. Use the maping and sectioning as your guide and let your eye do the rest.
The Shannon Cut teaches you to work with the curl, understand its behaviour, and create shapes that feel natural, balanced, and uniquely suited to the individual sitting in your chair.
A successful haircut begins long before the first cut — it starts with connection. Consultation is your opportunity to understand not just what your client wants, but why it matters to them. It is about creating trust, building rapport, and setting the tone for the entire experience.
Think of this stage as more than a checklist; it's a conversation that blends listening, empathy, and professional
insight. When you approach consultation with care, you're not only gathering information, you're shaping
confidence and laying the foundation for a result they'll love.
Why Sectioning Matters
Correct sectioning is the foundation of every great haircut. It acts as your road map, guiding you from the beginning of the haircut right through to the final result.
A well-planned sectioning pattern allows you to work with clarity and intention, rather than guessing your way through. It ensures every section has purpose, and that every movement you make contributes to the overall shape.
When sectioning is clean and deliberate, you can clearly understand:
• Where your guide sits
• How elevation will affect weight and length
• How direction will shape the outcome
Because of this, the outcome becomes predictable. You're no longer hoping the haircut will work — you know how it will behave, based on the shapes and techniques you're applying.
Visual image of the Shannon cut.
Head sheet diagram explaining each section step by step.
Written description of the Shannon cut. Go over notes prior to beginning the haircut for a better understanding.
Working blank head sheet allows you to redraw each section of the haircut for your personal understanding.
