How to Dye Mohair Wigs

Dyeing mohair wigs is a relatively easy step in the doll-making process. Before dyeing, you must ensure that the mohair wig is clean and does not have any tangles. It should also have plenty of room to float in the dye bath. Along with store-bought dyes, you can also dye the mohair wig using products you already have at home such as tea bags and coffee powder.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2-gallon stainless steel pot
• Tongs
• White mohair wig
• Water
• RIT powder or liquid dye
• Dish detergent
• Candy thermometer (optional)
• Stainless steel bowl
• Indoor clothesline

1. Place a stainless steel pot on the stove, add 1 gallon of water and simmer up to at least 140 degrees F. Dissolve 1/2 a package of RIT powder dye or 1/4 cup RIT liquid dye in the water. Place a candy thermometer on the side of the pot and adjust the heat to keep the water at the desired temperature.

2. Wet the mohair wig with warm water, add dish detergent and wash gently. Rinse and squeeze out excess water.

3. Turn off the stove and add mohair wig to the dye bath. Using the tongs, move the mohair gently to ensure all the fibers are coated with the dye. Leave the wig in the bath for 3 to 10 minutes.

4. Use tongs to remove the mohair from the dye bath and place in the stainless steel bowl. Bring the bowl to the sink and rinse the hair under cool water until the water runs clear. Add a bit of dish detergent to the mohair, wash it and rinse thoroughly. Rinse out the bowl as well and empty of all dye water.

5. Transfer the mohair back to the dry stainless steel bowl as before. Hang the mohair over the tub using an indoor clothesline and allow to drip dry for about a day.

Tips & Warnings

• Use more dye and less water for a darker color. Also, the hotter the water, the deeper the color. Make sure the water is at least 140 degrees F, but never let it reach boiling point. If you need the wig to be darker, repeat the dyeing process.
• Make sure you are using clean mohair that has no tangles. If the mohair is tangled or dirty, it will cause a speckled or tie-dye effect.

References

• How to Dye Mohair for your Fashion Doll, Fairy or Mermaid
• Washing and Dyeing Mohair
• Basic Tie-Dye Instructions

Resources

• Dyeing Mohair
• Mohairwig.com
• Doll Making