How to Make Theatre Wigs

A wig is part of an actor's costume.

Costumers use wigs in theatrical productions to help alter the actors' appearances to better fit their roles. Constructing an actor's wig is a time-consuming project; it usually takes between 40 and 60 hours to complete. The art requires both practice and creativity but, with the vast array of variation in hairstyle, color, length and thickness available, you can construct a suitable wig for any theatrical production.

Things You'll Need

• Nails
• Hammer
• Scissor
• Cotton ribbon
• Cotton lace
• Wig block
• Ventilating needle
• Sewing needle
• Thread
• Steel spring
• Human hair

Instructions

1. Measure the actor's head to determine the proper wig size.

2. Transfer these measurements to the wig block, a wooden head used in wig construction. Nail the ribbons gently to the wig block the measurement marks.

3. Wet the lace and shape it over the wig block. Sew the lace to the ribbons to form the wig cap.

4. Begin construction of the wig at the base of the neck. Fold clean and washed hair at the root end to make a loop. Push the ventilating needle part way through the wig cap lace. Attach a couple strands of hair to the ventilating needle and pull the hair through the loop, holding on to the hair strands. Double-knot the hair securely to the wig cap.

5. Working your way around from the base of the neck to the front of the wig cap, continue fastening hair to the cap.

6. Turn the wig inside out and attach hair to the interior edge of the cotton ribbons with the ventilating needle. Loop the hair through the wig cap just as before. Inspect the interior of the wig when you are finished. Cut away long knots and secure any loose ends.

7. Wet the wig cap. Let it dry on the wig block to set shape. Cut and style wig as desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Before beginning the wig, try the wig cap on the actor to ensure proper fit.

• Determine the ventilating needle size according to how many hairs you want to knot at one time. Don't use more than three strands of hair at a time. Using fewer strands is time consuming but produces a more realistic looking wig.

• To create a more natural look in the front and on the top of the wig, attach multidirectional strands to the wig cap and secure with a single knot.

• Sew steel springs to the wig cap at the back of the neck, the forehead and at the temples to improve fit.

References

• Makeup-FX: An Introduction to Wigmaking
• The Complete Wig and Human Hair Guide: How to Make a Wig