How to make paper wigs for cosplay?

Materials Needed

• Plastic grocery bags or thin plastic sheets
• Masking tape
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Craft paper or crepe paper in your desired hair color
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Hair gel or styling products (optional)
• Spray paint (optional)
• Elastic band or wig cap

Step-by-Step Process

1. Creating the Wig Base

1. Measure your head: Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head where you want the wig to sit.

2. Prepare the plastic sheet: Cut down a plastic grocery bag to create a single sheet of plastic. This will serve as the foundation for your wig cap.

3. Apply masking tape: Lay strips of masking tape onto the plastic sheet, overlapping each strip slightly to create a solid surface. This will reinforce the base and make it more durable.

4. Shape the wig cap: Using your head measurements as a guide, cut the taped plastic into an oval shape that will cover your head. Make sure it's slightly larger than your actual head size to allow for adjustments.

5. Create darts: To ensure a better fit, create small darts around the edges of the wig cap by folding and taping small sections. This will help the cap conform to the shape of your head.

6. Add an elastic band: Attach an elastic band to the back of the wig cap to keep it secure on your head. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought wig cap as your base if you prefer.

2. Planning the Hairstyle

1. Research and reference: Look for images of the character you're cosplaying or the hairstyle you want to recreate. Websites like CrazeCosplay.com offer a wide range of cosplay wigs that can serve as inspiration for your paper creation.

2. Sketch the design: Draw a rough sketch of the hairstyle on paper, noting the direction of hair growth, parting lines, and any special features like bangs or layers.

3. Mark guidelines: Using a pencil, lightly draw guidelines on your wig cap to indicate where different sections of hair will be placed.

3. Creating and Attaching the Hair

1. Cut the paper strips: Using your craft paper or crepe paper, cut long strips to represent strands of hair. The width of the strips can vary depending on the desired thickness of the hair.

2. Fringe the edges: To create a more natural look, use scissors to cut small, irregular notches along one long edge of each paper strip. This will help the "hair" look less uniform and more realistic.

3. Attach the hair: Starting at the nape of the neck, use your hot glue gun to attach the paper strips to the wig cap. Work in rows, overlapping each new row slightly with the previous one to ensure full coverage.

4. Build up layers: Continue adding rows of paper hair, working your way up towards the crown of the head. Pay attention to the direction of hair growth and any parting lines you've planned.

5. Add volume: For areas that need more volume, such as the top of the head or specific styled sections, crumple some paper and glue it to the wig cap before adding the hair strips on top.

6. Create bangs or face-framing pieces: If your hairstyle includes bangs or shorter pieces around the face, cut shorter strips of paper and attach them to the front of the wig cap, angling them as needed.

4. Styling the Wig

1. Trim and shape: Use scissors to carefully trim the paper hair to the desired length and shape. Take your time with this step to ensure a natural-looking result.

2. Create texture: To add texture and movement to your paper wig, you can use various techniques:
   1. Curl the paper strips by wrapping them around a pencil or dowel
   2. Crimp the paper using a zigzag folding technique
   3. Use a crimping tool (if available) for a more uniform texture

3. Style updo or complex hairstyles: For more intricate styles, you may need to use additional materials like wire or foam to create structure. Secure styled sections with hot glue or small pieces of tape.

4. Add shine (optional): To give your paper wig a more realistic sheen, you can lightly spray it with hair gel or use a clear, glossy spray paint. Be sure to test this on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the paper.

5. Final Touches and Maintenance

1. Secure loose pieces: Double-check all areas of the wig and use small dabs of hot glue to secure any loose paper strands.

2. Add accessories: If your character's hairstyle includes accessories like hair clips, tiaras, or decorative elements, now is the time to attach them to your wig.

3. Color touch-ups: If needed, use markers or paint to touch up any areas where the wig base might be visible.

4. Storage and transport: When not in use, store your paper wig on a wig stand or stuffed with tissue paper to maintain its shape. For transport, place it in a large, sturdy box to prevent crushing.

Tips for Success

• Practice patience: Making a paper wig can be time-consuming, but the results are worth it. Take your time, especially when attaching the hair strips and styling.

• Use reference images: Keep pictures of your desired hairstyle nearby for constant reference throughout the process.

• Experiment with different papers: Different types of paper can create various effects. Tissue paper can create a softer look, while cardstock might be better for more structured styles.

• Consider weatherproofing: If you're worried about your wig getting damaged by moisture, you can apply a light coat of clear, flexible sealant to protect it.

• Blend colors: For more dynamic hair colors, consider using multiple shades of paper or lightly coloring sections with markers or chalk pastels.

Conclusion