A wig maker is someone who makes artificial hair that can be worn both men and women to change their appearance. Although wig makers can still find work in the television and film industries, as well as costume manufacturers, this trade was once much more popular in certain parts of the world. This individual can also work on their own to provide wigs to people who have lost their hair for any reason or who simply want to change their appearance.
Because the process of making a wig is time-consuming and difficult, a wig maker is likely to devote a significant amount of time to learning how to properly make wigs. Taking measurements of a person’s head is the first step in the wig-making process. This is especially important if the wig is being made for a specific person, such as an actor on the set of a movie. Several measurements must be taken to provide this professional with an accurate representation of the size and shape of the person’s head. After taking measurements, the data is transferred to a mannequin head that can be manipulated and shaped. The mannequin head can be made out of wood, foam, polystyrene, or other easily shaped materials.
The weaving process that a wig maker uses to make the wig can be challenging. The stitch requires extremely fine hairs — often human hairs, horse hairs, or even certain types of feathers — and specialized tools are available to make the process a little easier. A potential wig maker will often obtain an apprenticeship to learn the stitches and the —est of the steps involved in the wig making process, during which time he or she will work under the direct guidance and supervision of a more experienced professional. The length of an apprenticeship and the qualifications required to obtain such a position can both vary significantly. Although basic math skills are required in most cases, no specific level of education is required.
A wig maker can also create a partial wig that blends in with your natural hair. This is particularly useful in the film industry and for people who have lost some but not all of their hair. To make the transition between real hair and the wig as natural as possible, precise measurements must be taken and an accurate hair match must be found.