Tidying a mane that I want to plait

[RIDMagic]

My mare has a fairly thick mane that is overdue for a good tidy up. Pulling is a definite no no. I have used scissors before (the cardinal sin, I know) and actually had fairly good results, it looked natural as I snipped into it rather than across, so got rid of some length but obviously doesn't help the thickness. I am going to need to plait her up for showing and dressage so I don't want to be left with stumpy sticky-outy roots... Is this inevitable if I use a solocomb or a rake? Any tips would be very welcome!

 

[be positive]

I use a rake and if done carefully it leaves no more sticking up bits as it grows back than pulling does, once raked I snip the length and it looks like a properly pulled mane but it needs to be done in stages for best results long term. I find a solo comb does cause stumpy growth as it cuts bits out whereas the rake scrapes at it, mine will let me rake through once a week or so and it keeps it under control.