Know the hair
Hair structure, curl patterns, porosity, density and how to identify an ideal MicroLocks client.
AcademyProfessional MicroLocks education
Become the go-to MicroLocks specialist in your area.
Learn the science, precision and confidence behind beautiful MicroLocks from veteran natural hair artist and educator Karen Thomas.
Florida • New York • Maryland • Online
26+Years in natural hair
2Ways to learn: in-person + online
34KInstagram community
3In-person class locations
01 / The opportunity
The demand is here. Your next skill can be, too.
Clients are searching for skilled MicroLocks practitioners—and too many are hearing that no new appointments are available. The Braid Shop Academy turns Karen’s decades of hands-on experience into a clear, practical learning path.
- 01 Understand the hair before you start the loc
- 02 Build clean, consistent technique
- 03 Care for the client and the finished work
02 / Inside the classroom
See it. Practice it. Make it yours.
Karen brings the curriculum off the page with live demonstrations, close guidance and time to build the technique with your own hands.
03 / Online introduction course
Inside Introduction to MicroLocks.
The 12-chapter online foundation helps you understand the “why,” then practice the “how.”
Chapters 1–2
Build the foundation
Precision sectioning, parting, loc sizing, interlocking tools and the patterns that shape the finished result.
Master the technique
Starting the interlock, using the tool with confidence and understanding the natural locking process.
Protect the result
Maintenance, shampooing, retightening, aftercare and practical troubleshooting for long-term loc health.
More than a class
Learn in community. Leave with confidence.
04 / Meet Your Instructor
Karen “Tiny” Thomas
Transforming lives—one head at a time.
For more than 26 years, Karen “Tiny” Thomas has been transforming lives—one head at a time.
As a highly respected Natural Hairstylist, Loctician, and Educator, Tiny has dedicated her career to helping clients confidently embrace the beauty of their natural hair while empowering beauty professionals to master their craft.
Known for her passion, precision, and innovative approach to textured hair, she has trained and mentored the next generation of Braiders, Locticians, and Natural Hair Artists, equipping them with the knowledge, techniques, and confidence to build thriving careers.
Whether she’s creating flawless transformations behind the chair or teaching the Art & Science of Natural Hair, Tiny’s mission is simple: elevate the industry, inspire excellence, and leave every client and every student better than they imagined possible.
Natural HairstylistLocticianEducator
Follow Karen on Instagram 05 / Meet Our Partners
Partner Spotlight
In partnership with Enerlocks.
Enerlocks founder Aymanie Nelson created the smooth stainless-steel locking tool from her own intentional, client-focused hair practice. Through Karen’s partnership with Enerlocks, every in-person student receives the tool in their enrollment kit to use while learning how to establish, maintain and repair locs—and to continue using after class.
06 / In-Person Classes
Practice in person. Leave ready.
Learn with Karen through hands-on guidance in Florida, New York and Maryland. Each student receives an Enerlocks tool as part of their enrollment kit.
View In-Person Schedule07 / Online Academy
Choose your next Online Academy course.
Available now
Introduction to MicroLocks
Build your foundation with Karen’s self-paced introduction course.
Purchase CourseAdvanced training
Advanced MicroLock Repair
Expand your skills with focused techniques for advanced repair work.
Coming SoonAdvanced training
Advanced MicroLock Extensions
Learn advanced extension techniques designed for MicroLock artists.
Coming Soon08 / Student Stories
What students say after learning with Karen.
Real reflections from artists who stepped into the classroom, strengthened their technique and left more confident in their craft.
Press play to hear each student’s experience.
09 / Good to know
Questions, answered.
Do I receive a discount on an in-person class if I complete the online course?
Yes. Students who complete the Introduction to MicroLocks online course receive $300 off an in-person class.
Where are in-person classes held?
In-person classes are offered in Jacksonville, Florida; New York; and select Maryland locations. Available dates and locations are shown in the in-person class schedule.
What does the course cover?
The 12-chapter curriculum moves from hair science and client assessment through parting, interlocking patterns, installation, aftercare, retightening and troubleshooting.
Your next chapter starts here
Ready to lock in your next skill?
Explore an upcoming class or connect with Karen to find the right starting point.