Wash and dry the hair
Decide the fade height: low, mid, or high
Choose the guard lengths you will use
Start with the longest guard at the top of the fade area
Use upward flicking motions to remove bulk
Switch to a shorter guard for the lower section
Blend the transition between guard lengths
Use the lever on the clipper to fine-tune blending
Remove the guard and clean up the lowest area carefully
Use a trimmer or no-guard clipper for the neckline and sideburns
Check both sides for symmetry
Blend any harsh lines with a shorter guard or lever adjustments
Clean around the ears and neckline
Brush away loose hair
Inspect the fade in a mirror from multiple angles