How to Cut Wigs
Wearing wigs can be a great way to easily change a hairstyle or cover thinning hair. Although wigs can be fun and fashionable, sometimes they don't fit right or the length of the hair is wrong while the color and style are still desirable. Many people feel that wigs are permanently styled at one length, but a cut can refresh the look of a wig--although complicated cutting should be done by a trained wig stylist. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Picture of desired cut
- Barber comb or measuring tape
- Styrofoam styling head
- Hair pins
- Comb
- Hair scissors
- Spritzing bottle
Instructions
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Stylist Cut
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1
Review hair cuts in magazines and online. Select a cut that is shorter than your wig's current length. Take a picture of an example with you to the salon.
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2
Put the wig on as you normally would. Explain how you would like it cut, pointing out areas that you would like to emphasize and others you would like to de-emphasize.
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3
Ask the stylist to cut slowly and in small increments. Request that she curl and style the hair per the picture as she goes, to ensure that the wig is not cut too short or left too long.
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4
Point out any changes you'd like made after the cut is complete, ensuring the length suits your preference after styling.
Cutting the Wig at Home
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5
Put the wig on and get an idea of how much of the length you would like to remove. Measure trim lengths with a barber comb or a measuring tape.
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6
Put the wig on a styrofoam styling head and secure into place with pins.
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7
Comb out the wig and spritz with water to make cutting easier.
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8
Begin trimming in small sections, using care to not take off too much hair. Style hair as you go to ensure the proper length is attained.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Unless you're a professional, it may be worthwhile to have a stylist perform a complicated cut, such as layers or bobs. Trims can be easily done at home, but since wigs don't grow back, they will be permanently damaged by a bad home cut. Discount cuts can be made by trainees at cosmetology schools. These students often practice on wigs and acrylic hair, and are reviewed by teachers as they cut. Their services are much cheaper than those of a professional stylist, usually costing around $10 to $25 for a standard cut. Have your stylist point out tips as he goes, so you can make a similar cut on another wig.
