No you don't have to really cut it
what they call the Dread Perming , this can cost from $200 to $450 bucks
it's a chemical process to deal with already perm hair , this really requires
high professional maintenance.
Sectioned the hair into squares , make round dreads into 1 and 2 squares
remember smaller sections make thinner dreads , secure each one in rubberbands
twist each section clockwise using a reg comb to snag the hair at the ends and
twist, be sure to get some dread wax so it can help hold the dreads
Good thick wax without petroleum holds the hair better and thinner wax
for sheen and fragrance rubberbands can be used for the first few weeks
be sure not to make them too tight but snug , hair should be twisted regularly to
help the locks .
Perm hair can be train into the locks for great dreads but do not use anymore
chemicals as time permit ther perm will turn to a nappy look for great dreads
also get the right products to maintain your hair also for that perm hair and getting
set for dreads it would be nice to use berries in the hair , hope i was of help
from what i know.....................i'm sure one of the sistas will give more info.
I'm not a Professional nor have i've done this ..