How to Get Hair Made Into a Wig

Early wigs were made with goatskin that functioned as a surrogate scalp for poking hair through with an embroidery needle. Today we use other materials but still use the tried-and-true method of tying hair into knots, or ventilating--a technique invented during time of Louis XVI in France. Making your own wig is an ideal way of personalizing your style, as well as saving money, since wigs can be expensive. With the right tools, wig making is an enjoyable way to create a collection of new looks without hurting your pocketbook.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wig block or foam head display Wig cap Cotton lace Cotton wig ribbons Sewing machine or needle and thread Drawing mats Ventilating needle

1. Measure your head for the correct size of the wig. Transfer measurements to the wig block and attach wig ribbons to the block.

2. Wet the cotton lace and place it over the wig block to create a foundation for the wig. Sew the foundation and try it on for the correct fit. Adjust if necessary.

3. Decide on the style, length and thickness of the hair for your wig. Clean hair before using and then place between the two drawing mats.

4. Figure out how much hair is needed for a knot and then determine the size of your ventilating needle (a small needle that looks like a fish hook) accordingly. It is customary to use several strands for the head and one or two for hairline area. Ventilating starts at neck. Fold hair into the root end to make a loop. Bring the needle through the lace and then grab few strands of hair, pulling them through lace. Keep hair tight using single or double knots. Close the knot by keeping the hair stretched between your fingers, and then pull all the hair through loop. When tying hair into knots, make sure the root end is short to keep the wig from becoming too thick.

5. Tie the wig with a ribbon that you have placed in the back. Work your way around the sides using double knots. For the area around the hairline, use single knots. Use all six directions of your lace for a natural look.

6. Turn the wig inside out and place hair on the inside of your edge ribbons to create a seamless look. Fit the wig securely around temples, neck and forehead.

7. 
    

   Wet and dry the hair to create a shape that you like. Cut the hair into a style you like and then fit the wig again for a final trim.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy cotton lace in the color that matches your hair. Use only real hair for the best results. All materials can be found in wig or beauty shops as well as in online stores. Beauty supply stores often have hair sales. Care for your wig properly: wash once a month, hang to dry and shake to fluff. Set with rollers while damp if curls are desired.
• Do not brush your wig when it is damp or wet. If you decide to make your wig with glue instead of ventilating, realize that the wig will be of lesser quality and will have a shorter life.

Resources

• MHRW: Wig-making kits
• Step-by-step photos of lace wig making