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Doll Wig Tutorial

When customizing a doll, one of the easiest things to change is the wig. A new wig can give a doll an entirely new look and persona. Since it is such an important part of the doll's style and personality, care should be taken when selecting and buying a new wig. Size is the most important factor, but of course material and style should also be taken into account. By following this easy guide, you'll also have an easier time purchasing your next doll wig.

Sizing the Wig
- The size of your doll's wig may not seem very important, but figuring out what size you need is the first step to purchasing a new wig. A doll wig needs to fit snugly over the head -- too big and it will slide off, too small and it won't fit at all. The universal way to figure out a wig size is to measure the circumference of your doll's head along its "wigline." Place your tape measure on the doll's forehead and then bring it down to pass by just above the ears and meet at the back of the head where the nape of the hairline would be. Record the measurement in both inches and centimeters, though most wigs are sized by inches.
Wig Materials
- Picking the right material depends upon the look of your doll. For traditional porcelain dolls, mohair is the most common choice for that soft look of delicate curls. When working with fashion dolls or ball-joint dolls, shining saran tends to be the standard. There are human hair wigs available as well for a more realistic look. While these are the general rules, don't be afraid to do something different with your doll.
Style and Color
- Once you have your size and material picked out, it's time to select your style and color. It is best to start with the style of the wig as most wig sellers will have color variations available. If you can't find the right color, you can dye wigs but this may undo any styling. If you are thinking of styling the wig, always buy a longer length wig to give yourself more to work with.
Attaching the Wig
- When putting on your new wig, start at the forehead and gently pull it towards the back of the head to stretch it over the whole scalp. While you want your wig to fit snuggly on its own, sometimes you want a little more support. Film Velcro -- which you can buy from ball-joint doll specialty stores - can be glued to your doll's scalp and sewn to the caps of wigs to make for a more secure hold while still allowing you to change wigs. If you wish to permanently attach a new wig, gently apply a layer of glue to the scalp with a paintbrush before placing the wig. Allow the glue to dry for 24 hours before styling.

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