The Fundamental
cutting Course
Develop the expertise to wield those scissors with confidence.
This course takes you through a structured progression of
mastering the DLA essentials to executing advanced cuts.
Graduate with the skills to create bespoke cuts that magnify the beauty of every face.
21 in-person guided sessions
2 hands-on practice sessions
1 Masterclass with Devorah Leah
Groups forming in Boro Park, Monsey, and Lakewood
Classes are capped at 15 stylists per location
Course runs: October - June
Graduation and certification: August
Introduction to the DLA cutting method
In this stage, students are introduced to the DLA Cutting Method both theoretically and practically.
Topics Covered:
- Terminology
- Head shape and parts of the head assessment
- Sectioning and parting hair and wigs
- Line drawing
- Fundamentals of cutting techniques
- Blunt and point cutting techniques on square and boxed-shaped cuts (practiced on hair and wigs)
This stage serves as the foundation for all precision cutting techniques in the subsequent stages.
Introduction to visual cutting and face framing
In this stage, students begin exploring visual cutting techniques, including face framing and 0-45° elevation, using both stationary and traveling guides.
Topics Covered:
- Visual cutting techniques:
- Razor
- Slide cutting
- Scissor over comb
- Different shapes of face frames
- Recap and guided practical class
This stage provides the foundation for all visual cutting techniques and the introduction to layering.
Classic and advanced 45° layering
This stage covers both classic and advanced 45° elevation layering precision, as well as visual cutting all around the head, including 45°-layered bangs.
Topics Covered:
- 45° Chanel technique
- Sunshine technique (theory and practical)
- 45° elevation layered bang
- 45° elevation combo cut
- Blending with 45° elevation techniques
- Introduction to thinning shears for cutting and texturizing
This stage addresses common challenges and introduces solutions for blending and texturizing.
Combining shapes and techniques for complete styles
In this stage, students learn how combining different shapes and techniques creates a complete hair and wig style.
Topics Covered:
- 45° elevation combo cuts
- 45° elevation blending
By the end of this stage, students will be able to perform flawless 45° combination cuts, blending all techniques they have learned up to this point.
Advanced 90°-180° cutting techniques
This stage covers the theory and application of 90°-180° shapes and techniques, from foundational cuts to finishing and blending in the DLA style.
Topics Covered:
- 90° overextended layers (above 90°-180°) in bangs and fronts
- 90° increase layers+ in bangs and fronts
- 90° head shape layers in bangs and fronts
- 90° square layers in bangs and fronts
- 90° blending
- Written test to reinforce learning and prepare students for the final stages
By the end of this stage, students will have a deep understanding of advanced layering techniques, for precision, balance, and blending in every cut.
Practice, review, and perfecting techniques
This stage provides students with the opportunity to review, practice, and perfect their skills and knowledge, preparing them for the final stage with confidence.
Topics Covered:
- Guided practice: Combination cuts with pictures in all shapes
- Hands-on test: Finishing and blending using all DLA techniques learned
- Combo cut incorporating multiple techniques
- Q&A session
- Picture assessment review
- Blending class with Master Trainer DLA
This stage culminates in one of DLA Academy’s most exciting and challenging classes — the Picture Assessment Class.
The graduation ceremony
The final stage concludes with an educational competition designed to inspire and motivate students to achieve their maximum potential.
Topics Covered:
- Specialty class on current trending techniques and styles
- Competition
- Specialty bonus class
- Graduation ceremony
- Work of art display
- Diploma distribution
- Free access to the annual masterclass
- Q&A with DLA
Graduates celebrate their success with a diploma handout and the opportunity to showcase their work of art. This stage concludes with heartfelt emotions and the best wishes for future success.