How to Sew a Wig

Creating your own wig can be a rewarding and creative endeavor. By sewing a wig, you gain the ability to customize it to your personal style, head size, and desired look.

Whether you’re a beginner or someone with experience in hair styling, this guide on how to sew a wig will provide step-by-step instructions to help you craft a wig that looks and feels like it was professionally made.

Materials Needed

Before you start sewing your wig, make sure you have all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of items you will need:

• A Wig Cap or Dome Cap
• Hair Wefts (Synthetic or Human Hair)
• Sewing Needle
• Thread in Color That Matches Your Hair Wefts
• Scissors
• Wig Stand or Mannequin Head
• T-pins
• Measuring Tape

7 Simple Step-by-Step Guidelines on How to Sew a Wig

Step 1: Preparing the Wig Cap 

Start by placing the wig cap or dome cap securely on the wig stand or mannequin head. Use T-pins to hold the cap in place, ensuring it is stretched out smoothly and fits snugly without wrinkles.

This provides a solid base for your wig and helps maintain the correct shape during the sewing process. If necessary, use the measuring tape to ensure the cap aligns with your desired head measurements for a perfect fit.

Step 2: Measure Your Head 

Accurate measurements are crucial for creating a wig that fits comfortably and securely. Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head, starting from the hairline at your forehead, going around your ears, and ending at the nape of your neck.

Additionally, measure from the front hairline to the nape of your neck and from ear to ear across the top of your head. Write down these measurements and compare them to the wig cap to ensure proper sizing. Adjust the cap if necessary before continuing to the next step.

Step 3: Prepare the Hair Wefts

Before attaching the hair wefts to the wig cap, ensure they are clean, smooth, and tangle-free. Start by sorting the wefts by length, as this will help create a natural layering effect when constructing the wig. If necessary, trim any uneven ends for a more polished appearance.

Lay the wefts flat on a clean surface and gently brush through them using a wide-toothed comb or a wig brush to remove any tangles. By preparing the wefts properly, you’ll achieve a more seamless and professional result in the final wig.

Step 4: Start Sewing

To begin sewing the wefts onto the wig cap, position the cap securely on a wig stand or mannequin head to keep it stable. Start at the nape of the neck area and work your way up. Take the longest weft and align it with the bottom edge of the cap. Using a curved needle and strong thread, carefully stitch the weft to the cap, ensuring the stitches are tight enough to hold the weft securely but not overly tight to avoid puckering.

Work in small sections, making sure the weft lies flat against the cap as you sew. Once you reach the end of the weft, tie off the thread securely and trim any excess. Repeat this process with the remaining wefts, layering them neatly to achieve the desired fullness and style for the wig.

Step 5: Create a Natural Hairline

To create a natural-looking hairline, begin by customizing the lace or front edge of the wig cap. Use small scissors or a razor to carefully trim the lace to follow the natural contours of your hairline. This ensures a seamless blend with your skin.

Next, pluck small sections of hair along the hairline using tweezers to mimic the appearance of real hair growth, creating a gradual density transition instead of a straight, uniform line. Be cautious not to overpluck as this may compromise the structure or fullness of the wig. Finally, use a small makeup brush and foundation that matches your skin tone to lightly blend the lace edge into your scalp, achieving an even more realistic finish.

Step 6: Style and Finish

Once the lace has been blended and the hairline adjusted, it’s time to style your wig for the final look. Using heat styling tools, such as a curling iron or straightener, shape the wig to suit your preferred style, ensuring the tools are set to a heat level that is safe for the wig’s material. For synthetic wigs, be sure to confirm that they are heat-resistant before applying any heat.

Comb or brush the hair gently to achieve a polished appearance, and use hair products like mousse or a light-hold spray to tame flyaways and add natural shine. Finish by positioning the wig as desired and spraying a light mist of holding spray to keep the style in place. With these final touches, your wig will look effortlessly natural and stylish.

Step 7: Caring for Your Wig

To keep your handmade wig looking its best, make sure to properly care for it. This includes washing it regularly with a mild shampoo and conditioner, avoiding excessive heat styling, and storing it on a mannequin head or in a breathable bag when not in use.

Following these tips on how to sew in wig will help maintain the lifespan of your wig and keep it looking beautiful for years to come. It’s also important to note that different types of wigs may require different care instructions, so be sure to read the specific guidelines for your particular wig type. A sew-in wig offers a secure and natural-looking option for those seeking a versatile hairstyle without long-term commitment.

Additional Tips for Sewing on a Wig

• Make sure to take breaks while sewing to avoid strain on your hands and eyes.
• Use sharp scissors to cut the hair wefts for clean edges.
• Experiment with different sewing techniques (such as single or double wefting) to find what works best for your preferred wig style.
• Consider using a mannequin head or foam wig stand to hold the wig in place while sewing, rather than trying to sew it on while wearing it.
• Take care not to sew the wig too tightly onto your head, as this can cause discomfort and damage the wig’s hairline.
• When attaching the wig, start at the nape of your neck and work upwards for a more secure fit.
• Use a knot sealer on the knots of your wig to prevent shedding and prolong its lifespan.
• If you’re new to sewing wigs, consider practicing on an old or inexpensive wig before working on a more expensive one.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques when sewing wigs, as this can help you find the best method for your personal preferences and needs.
• Remember to always take breaks and stretch your hands and wrists while sewing to avoid strain and fatigue.
• After completing your wig, try it on and make any necessary adjustments before wearing it out in public. This will ensure a comfortable fit and prevent any surprises or mishaps.
• Once you’ve mastered sewing wigs, consider expanding your skills by learning techniques such as ventilating, which involves creating hair strands from scratch using a needle and thread.

How Much Will It Cost If I Make a Wig at Home?

The cost of making a wig at home can vary significantly depending on the materials and tools you choose. Generally, the main expenses include the hair bundles or wefts, which can range from $50 to $300 or more, depending on the quality and type of hair (synthetic or human).

A wig cap, which serves as the base, typically costs between $5 and $20. Sewing needles, thread, and other tools such as wig clips or an elastic band for securing the wig are relatively inexpensive, collectively costing around $10 to $30. If you don’t already own a mannequin head or stand for constructing the wig, this may add an additional $20 to $50 to your expenses.

While the upfront cost may seem high, making your own wig can be more affordable in the long run, especially if you plan to create multiple wigs. Additionally, it allows for customization, ensuring the finished product aligns perfectly with your personal preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I Use Any Type of Hair for Making a Wig?

A: Yes, you can use a variety of hair types, including human hair, synthetic hair, or a combination of both. It’s important to choose high-quality hair that will withstand the sewing process and provide a natural look.

Q2: Do I Need Special Tools for Sewing Wigs?

A: While some specialized tools, such as a wig block or ventilating needle, can make the process easier, you can still sew a wig using basic sewing equipment like needles and thread. However, investing in these tools can greatly improve the quality of your wigs.

Q3: How Long Does It Take to Make a Wig?

A: The time it takes to make a wig will vary depending on your skill level and the complexity of the style. On average, it can take anywhere from to -20 hours to create a full wig. With practice and experience, you may be able to complete one in less time. It’s important to be patient and take your time to ensure a well-made wig.

Conclusion

Creating a wig is a rewarding craft that blends creativity, patience, and skill. While it may seem daunting at first, having the right materials and dedicating time to practice can lead to stunning results. Remember, every wig maker starts somewhere, and each project is an opportunity to improve and refine your techniques.

Whether you’re making wigs for personal use or as a professional endeavor, the effort you put in is sure to shine through in the final product. Thanks for reading this article on how to sew a wig.