One of the transformative elements of crossdressing is the hair. The perfect hairstyle can elevate your entire look, but quality wigs can sometimes carry a hefty price tag. Fear not, because with a touch of creativity and a dash of patience, you can craft or modify wigs that align with your budget and style. Here’s your guide to DIY wigs for crossdressers.
1. The Base Matters
Start with an affordable but decent-quality wig base. Synthetic wigs are often more cost-effective than human hair wigs. Look for ones with a natural shine and good hair density.
2. Restyling and Heat
Most synthetic wigs can tolerate low heat. Use heated rollers or a straightening iron on low settings to restyle the wig. This is an affordable way to have multiple hairstyles using a single wig base.
3. Dyeing Synthetic Wigs
While traditional hair dyes won’t work, synthetic wigs can be tinted using fabric dye or alcohol-based inks. Always test on a small section before dyeing the entire wig.
4. Add Volume with Wefts
Purchase extra wefts (sections of hair) to sew into your wig for added volume. This is especially useful for updo styles that require thick hair.
5. Crafting a Wig from Scratch
For the truly adventurous, you can craft a wig from scratch using wefts and a wig cap. While time-consuming, this method allows you to create a fully customized hairpiece.
6. Wig Maintenance
Keep your wig looking fresh by gently detangling it with a wide-tooth comb and washing it with cold water and mild shampoo. Proper storage, preferably on a wig stand, can prolong its life.
7. Lace Front Customization
For a more natural hairline, customize or add a lace front to an existing wig. Cut and pluck the lace to mimic a natural hairline and use makeup to blend it seamlessly with your skin.
8. Layering and Texturizing
Change the wig’s entire look by cutting in layers or texturizing using regular hair shears. This can make a budget wig look high-end.
9. Concealing Wig Bands
Use makeup matching your skin tone to conceal and blend any visible wig bands, making the hairpiece look more natural.
10. Join DIY Wig Groups
Online platforms often have dedicated groups where enthusiasts share tutorials, tips, and tricks for DIY wig making and customization.
Conclusion
Crafting or customizing your wig offers not just cost savings but also the joy of creating something tailored to your unique style. With patience, learning, and experimentation, you can master the art of DIY wigs for crossdressers, creating the perfect crowning glory for your look.