Are you curious about how long it takes to create a stunning wig from human hair? The process of making a wig from human hair is an intricate and time-consuming task that requires precision and expertise. From selecting the right hair type to crafting the perfect style, each step in the process plays a crucial role in creating a high-quality wig. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different stages involved in making a wig from human hair and provide insights into the time it takes to complete each step. Whether you’re a wig maker or simply interested in the craft, this guide will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating world of wig making. So, let’s dive in and discover the magic behind creating a beautiful wig from human hair!

Understanding the Process of Making a Wig from Human Hair

The Different Types of Human Hair Used for Wigs

When it comes to making wigs from human hair, there are three main types of hair that are used: virgin hair, Remy hair, and non-Remy hair. Each type of hair has its own unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of wigs.

1. Virgin Hair
   Virgin hair is hair that has never been chemically treated or processed in any way. This means that the hair cuticles are still intact, which helps to preserve the natural texture and shine of the hair. Virgin hair is often used to create high-quality wigs that are meant to look as natural as possible.
2. Remy Hair
   Remy hair is human hair that has been carefully collected and sorted to ensure that all of the cuticles are facing in the same direction. This helps to prevent matting and helps the hair to look more natural and smooth. Remy hair is often used to create wigs that are meant to look like natural hair, as it has a more natural appearance and feel.
3. Non-Remy Hair
   Non-Remy hair is human hair that has been collected and sorted, but the cuticles are not always facing in the same direction. This can result in matting and a less natural appearance. Non-Remy hair is often used to create wigs that are meant to be styled in a specific way, such as a curly wig or a wig with a specific texture.

Overall, the type of human hair used to make a wig will depend on the desired look and feel of the wig. Virgin hair and Remy hair are typically more expensive than non-Remy hair, but they also offer a higher quality and more natural appearance.

The Steps Involved in Making a Wig from Human Hair

1. Collecting and sorting the hair
   • One of the first steps in making a wig from human hair is collecting and sorting the hair. This process involves gathering hair from multiple donors and ensuring that the hair is of the same texture and color. The hair is then sorted into different grades based on its quality and condition.
   • This step is crucial as it ensures that the final product will look natural and believable. It also ensures that the hair will be durable and long-lasting.
2. Creating the lace base or cap
   • After the hair has been collected and sorted, the next step is to create the lace base or cap. This is the foundation of the wig and is made from a lightweight, breathable material that will be comfortable to wear.
   • The lace base or cap is usually made using a machine or by hand. It is then attached to the hair and will serve as the foundation for the rest of the wig.
3. Attaching the hair to the base
   • Once the lace base or cap has been created, the next step is to attach the hair to the base. This is done using a technique called “wefting.” Wefting involves taking small sections of hair and attaching them to the lace base or cap using a sewing machine or hand stitching.
   • This step is important as it ensures that the hair is evenly distributed and that the wig will look natural and believable. It also ensures that the wig will be comfortable to wear and will last for a long time.
4. Styling and finishing the wig
   • After the hair has been attached to the base, the final step is to style and finish the wig. This may involve adding highlights or lowlights, curling the hair, or cutting it to the desired length.
   • The wig is then ready to be worn. It can be styled in a variety of ways to suit the wearer’s preferences and can be washed and cared for like natural hair.

Overall, the process of making a wig from human hair is a complex and time-consuming process that requires skill and attention to detail. However, the end result is a high-quality, natural-looking wig that can be worn for a variety of occasions.

Factors That Can Affect the Time It Takes to Make a Wig

When it comes to making a wig from human hair, there are several factors that can affect the time it takes to complete the process. These factors include:

• Complexity of the wig design
• Skill level of the wig maker
• Type of hair used

Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.

Complexity of the Wig Design

The complexity of the wig design can have a significant impact on the time it takes to make a wig from human hair. For example, a wig with intricate braiding or layering will take longer to create than a simple wig with no additional features. Similarly, a wig with a monofilament top, which requires more skill and time to create, will take longer to make than a wig with a standard lace front.

Skill Level of the Wig Maker

The skill level of the wig maker is another factor that can affect the time it takes to make a wig from human hair. A skilled wig maker with years of experience may be able to create a wig more quickly and efficiently than a beginner who is still learning the ropes. Additionally, a wig maker who specializes in a particular type of wig, such as a lace front wig or a toupee, may be able to complete the process more quickly than someone who makes a variety of different types of wigs.

Type of Hair Used

The type of hair used to make the wig can also impact the time it takes to complete the process. Human hair that is pre-bleached or pre-dyed may save time compared to hair that needs to be bleached or dyed after it has been collected. Additionally, hair that is purchased from a supplier may be pre-processed and ready to use, while hair that is donated by individuals may need to be washed, conditioned, and processed before it can be used to make a wig.

Overall, the time it takes to make a wig from human hair can vary depending on a variety of factors. However, with the right tools, techniques, and experience, a skilled wig maker can create a beautiful, high-quality wig that will look and feel natural.

The Tools and Materials Needed to Make a Wig from Human Hair

Hair Care Products

To create a wig from human hair, you will need a range of hair care products to keep the hair healthy and manageable throughout the process. These products include:

• Shampoo: A high-quality shampoo is essential for cleaning the hair and removing any buildup or residue that may have accumulated during the processing and styling of the hair. It is important to use a shampoo that is gentle on the hair and does not strip the natural oils from the scalp.
• Conditioner: After shampooing, it is important to apply a conditioner to the hair to help detangle the hair and make it easier to comb or brush through. Conditioner also helps to keep the hair moisturized and prevent breakage.
• Hair oil: Hair oil is a great way to add moisture and shine to the hair. It can also help to protect the hair from damage caused by heat styling tools or environmental factors such as humidity.
• Hair spray: Hair spray is a must-have for any hair stylist, as it helps to keep the hair in place and prevent it from falling out of place during the styling process. When making a wig from human hair, hair spray can be used to secure the hair in place while it is being styled and cut to the desired length.

Wig Making Supplies

• Lace base or cap:
  • A thin, mesh-like material that serves as the foundation for the wig. It is usually made of nylon or polyester and comes in various sizes and thicknesses.
  • The lace base or cap is used to create the appearance of a natural hairline and provide a secure fit for the wig.
• Hair wefts:
  • Hair wefts are strips of human hair that are used to create the bulk of the wig. They are typically made by taking individual strands of hair and weaving them together to form a seamless strip.
  • There are different types of hair wefts available, including machine wefts, hand-tied wefts, and clip-in wefts. The type of weft used will depend on the desired style and method of attachment.
• Needles:
  • Needles are used to sew the hair wefts onto the lace base or cap and to create any desired style or shape.
  • Different types of needles can be used, including blunt needles, tapestry needles, and needlepoint needles. The type of needle used will depend on the type of weft and the technique being used.
• Thread:
  • Thread is used to sew the hair wefts onto the lace base or cap and to create any desired style or shape.
  • Different types of thread can be used, including cotton thread, nylon thread, and polyester thread. The type of thread used will depend on the type of weft and the technique being used.
• Scissors:
  • Scissors are used to cut the hair wefts to the desired length and to trim any stray hairs.
  • Different types of scissors can be used, including regular scissors, clipper scissors, and texturing scissors. The type of scissors used will depend on the desired style and technique being used.

Measuring and Cutting the Hair

Measuring the Head for the Wig Cap Size

Measuring the head for the wig cap size is a crucial step in making a wig from human hair. It involves measuring the circumference of the head at the front, top, and back. The measurements will determine the size of the wig cap that will be made.

To measure the head accurately, you will need a soft measuring tape or a piece of string that can be stretched to the appropriate length. The tape or string should be placed around the head at the front, top, and back, and the measurements should be taken with the tape or string level and straight.

It is important to note that the measurements should be taken in the afternoon or evening when the head is at its largest. This is because the head tends to shrink in size during the day due to the natural oil produced by the scalp.

Cutting the Hair into Wefts

After measuring the head for the wig cap size, the next step is to cut the hair into wefts. Wefts are the individual strands of hair that will be used to create the wig.

To cut the hair into wefts, you will need scissors or a weft cutting machine. The hair should be sectioned into small portions, and each portion should be cut into wefts. The wefts should be cut to the appropriate length based on the desired wig style.

It is important to ensure that the wefts are cut evenly and that the hair is not tangled or matted. The wefts should be placed in rows on a wig cap or a mesh sheet to create the wig.

In conclusion, measuring and cutting the hair into wefts are crucial steps in making a wig from human hair. The measurements will determine the size of the wig cap, while the wefts will create the individual strands of hair that will be used to create the wig. These steps should be done carefully and accurately to ensure that the wig turns out looking natural and well-made.

Attaching the Hair to the Base

Once the hair has been washed, dried, and prepared, the next step is to attach it to the base of the wig. This process involves bonding the wefts to the lace base or cap, which serves as the foundation for the wig. The following are the steps involved in attaching the hair to the base:

1. Preparing the base: The lace base or cap is prepared by attaching a weft of hair to the edges, which will serve as the hairline. This is done by sewing the weft to the lace base using needles and thread.
2. Attaching the wefts: The wefts of hair are then attached to the lace base or cap using a technique called bonding. This involves taking a small section of hair from the weft and securing it to the base using needles and thread. The process is repeated until all the wefts have been attached to the base.
3. Securing the hair: Once the wefts have been attached to the base, the hair is secured in place using needles and thread. This ensures that the hair stays in place and does not come loose during wear.
4. Finishing touches: The final step in attaching the hair to the base is to trim any excess hair or stray threads. This ensures that the wig looks neat and tidy.

Overall, the process of attaching the hair to the base can take several hours, depending on the size of the wig and the amount of hair used. It requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that the wig looks natural and well-made.

Styling and Finishing the Wig

Styling and finishing the wig is an essential part of the wig-making process. This step involves choosing the right style for the wig, using hair styling products to achieve the desired look, and trimming and blending the hair.

Choosing the right style for the wig is crucial because it will determine the final look of the wig. The stylist should consider the client’s hair type, face shape, and personal preferences when choosing a style. The stylist can use reference images or consult with the client to determine the best style for the wig.

Using hair styling products is an essential part of styling the wig. The stylist should use products that are designed for human hair to ensure that the wig looks natural and realistic. The products used will depend on the desired style, and the stylist should be familiar with the different products available.

Trimming and blending the hair is an important step in finishing the wig. The stylist should trim the hair to the desired length and blend the hair with scissors or a razor. This step is crucial because it will determine the final look of the wig, and the stylist should take their time to ensure that the hair looks natural and seamless.

In conclusion, styling and finishing the wig is an essential part of the wig-making process. The stylist should choose the right style, use hair styling products, and trim and blend the hair to achieve a natural and realistic look. Taking the time to complete this step correctly will ensure that the wig looks great and is comfortable to wear.

The Average Time It Takes to Make a Wig from Human Hair

Complexity of the wig design

The complexity of the wig design is one of the most significant factors that can affect the time it takes to make a wig from human hair. The more intricate the design, the more time it will take to create the wig. For example, a wig with multiple layers, a lace front, or a hairline that needs to be hand-tied can take much longer to create than a simple, short wig with no added features.

Skill level of the wig maker

The skill level of the wig maker is another factor that can impact the time it takes to make a wig from human hair. A skilled wig maker with years of experience may be able to create a wig more quickly than someone who is just starting out. Additionally, a wig maker who specializes in a particular type of wig, such as a lace front wig or a toupee, may be able to create the wig more quickly due to their expertise in that area.

Type of hair used

The type of hair used to make the wig can also impact the time it takes to create the wig. Human hair wigs can be made from donated hair, which must be cleaned, sorted, and processed before it can be used to make a wig. This process can take several hours, depending on the amount of hair being used. Additionally, some types of hair, such as curly or coily hair, may require more time to style and shape into the desired wig style.

The Time It Takes to Make Different Types of Wigs

When it comes to making a wig from human hair, the time it takes to complete the process can vary depending on the type of wig being made. Here’s a breakdown of the average time it takes to create different types of wigs:

Basic Wig

A basic wig is the simplest type of wig to make, and typically takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to complete. This type of wig is made using a standard cap construction, and is typically made from a single piece of hair that is styled to create a specific look. The time it takes to make a basic wig can vary depending on the length and thickness of the hair used, as well as the complexity of the style.

Custom Wig

A custom wig is a more complex type of wig that is made to fit a specific individual’s head and hair type. These wigs typically take anywhere from 6 to 12 hours to make, depending on the complexity of the style and the amount of hair used. A custom wig may require multiple hair pieces to be sewn together to create the desired look, and the hair may need to be colored or processed to match the client’s natural hair color.

High-End Wig

A high-end wig is the most complex type of wig to make, and typically takes anywhere from 12 to 24 hours to complete. These wigs are made using the highest quality human hair, and are often hand-tied or hand-crafted to create a unique and customized look. A high-end wig may require multiple hair pieces to be sewn together, and may also include features such as lace fronts or monofilament tops to create a more natural appearance. The time it takes to make a high-end wig can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the amount of hair used.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to make a wig from human hair?

The time it takes to make a wig from human hair can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the experience of the wig maker. On average, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours to create a basic wig, while more intricate designs can take up to several days to complete. Factors that can affect the time it takes to make a wig include the type of hair used, the size of the wig, and the number of layers or details involved in the design.

2. What is the process of making a wig from human hair?

The process of making a wig from human hair typically involves several steps. First, the hair is washed, conditioned, and styled to achieve the desired look. Then, the hair is attached to a wig cap using a method such as weaving or sewing. The wig is then shaped and styled to the desired length and cut. Finally, the wig is finished with any necessary details, such as adding hair extensions or adding a hairline.

3. Can I make a wig from my own hair?

Yes, it is possible to make a wig from your own hair. The process of making a wig from your own hair is similar to making a wig from any other type of hair. First, your hair is washed, conditioned, and styled to achieve the desired look. Then, your hair is attached to a wig cap using a method such as weaving or sewing. The wig is then shaped and styled to the desired length and cut. Finally, the wig is finished with any necessary details, such as adding hair extensions or adding a hairline.

4. How do I care for a wig made from human hair?

To care for a wig made from human hair, it is important to handle it gently and avoid exposing it to heat or excessive moisture. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or products that can damage the hair. To style the wig, you can use a comb or your fingers to gently style the hair. It is also a good idea to store the wig in a cool, dry place when not in use.

5. How often should I wear a wig made from human hair?

It is generally recommended to wear a wig made from human hair for no more than 6 to 8 weeks at a time. After this period, the hair may start to look and feel different, and may need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to give the hair a break to allow it to recover and maintain its natural texture and appearance.