Wig Making

The art of wig making has been around for centuries, and the ideas behind making wigs have greatly changed since then. The wigs of today are much different from the wigs we've all seen in history books. If you've ever purchased a wig from a store, you can begin to understand why it's more desirable to make a custom wig for you or someone you know. Making your own wig can let you choose exactly the correct size, exactly the correct shape, and exactly the correct hair.
There are many type of wigs, but the wig we are all most familiar with is a basic store-bought wig. These wigs can be made of human or synthetic hair. Since they are relatively inexpensive, basic wigs normally are made by machine and don't carry high quality hair. Wigs can take be seen in a basic wig form, a toupee (a small wig used to cover only a portion of the head), hair piece, or lace wig.
A lace wig is one of the most expensive and beautiful types of wigs that you can make or buy. They are made from a fine lace base and the hair is attached strand by strand onto the lace. The process of attaching the hair to the lace is called ''ventilation.'' When completed properly, a lace wig is virtually undetectable, and the hair looks like it's growing out from your scalp.
There are several products that you need to start making a wig. The first thing you will need is a mannequin head to complete the wig on. A mannequin head can be made of wood, Styrofoam, or a number of other materials. You'll also need a wig cap, or lace, to serve as the base of your wig. A wig cap is higher quality than the netted cap you'll find on store-bought wigs, and of course, lace is the highest-quality base.
The next thing you will need is the hair to make the wig out of. Try not to use hair designed for braiding and weaving and make sure you get either human hair or synthetic hair. Human hair has a more natural look and will work better for the wig making process.
You will also need additional tools, depending on the type of wig you are making. Most of these tools can be purchased at your local beauty supply store or online through a number of reputable distributors.
Considering making (and wearing) your first wig? Check out these facts:
1. Wigs made of synthetic hair hold their shape in heat and humidity better than wigs made of human hair.
2. Using normal shampoo and conditioner on your wig can cause it to deteriorate quickly. Always use special wig shampoo and other special products designed just for wigs.
3. To avoid excess moisture build up on the part of your head that the wig covers, try using a little bit of cornstarch-based baby power
4. Suffering from hair poking out from under your wig? Tuck all your hair in a wig cap before applying the wig.
5. Sometimes, wigs will be too large in some places, causing the wig not to fit tightly. If this happens to you, try using a small piece of wig tape on those areas.

About The Author:

Marquetta Breslin, owner of Braids By Breslin, has been braiding and weaving hair for over 14 years. For a step-by-step DVD onwig making, visit Marquetta at www.braidsbybreslin.com.

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