How to Make a False Beard

Make a realistic beard with crepe wool.

False beards can be found in most costume shops, but they tend to be long, thick and fake looking. If you need a realistic beard that has a well-groomed appearance, use a material called crepe wool and an adhesive called spirit gum. Crepe wool is available in many different colors and can simulate coarse beard hair quite well. Spirit gum is a makeup adhesive that is used in stage and film productions.

Things You'll Need

• Crepe wool
• Scissors
• Cup
• Spirit gum
• Powder brush
• Pick comb

Instructions

1. Cut the two strings contained within a braid of crepe wool with a pair of scissors, then remove the strings. The wool is braided tightly onto the strings and will relax somewhat when they are removed.

2. Cut a few small pieces from the crepe wool and place them in a cup.

3. Insert the scissors into a cup and begin cutting the crepe wool down into finer and finer pieces. Stop cutting when the wool reaches the desired length.

4. Wash your face with soap and water, then again with an astringent to remove all dirt and oil.

5. Apply a thin coat of spirit gum adhesive to your chin. Allow it to get tacky, which usually takes 60 to 90 seconds.

6. Dip a powder brush into the chopped wool, then brush it gently against the spirit gum in the direction of the imagined hair growth.

7. Continue adding spirit gum and chopped wool to your cheeks up to the sideburns and on the space between your upper lip and nose. Work in small sections, always brushing the hair on in what would be the natural direction of growth.

8. Use a pick comb to gently redirect any hairs that are not facing the right direction.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove the beard with spirit gum remover or rubbing alcohol.

• Matte spirit gum leaves less of a noticeable shine than the standard variety, but it can be harder to find.

References

• "Stage Makeup"; Richard Corson; 1981 (6th edition)