How to put a cosplay wig in a ponytail?

How to Put a Cosplay Wig in a Ponytail

Choosing the Right Wig

• Character Accuracy: Ensure the wig matches your character's hair color, style, and length. Websites like CrazeCosplay.com offer a wide range of wigs tailored to specific characters from popular anime, games, and movies.

• Quality: Look for wigs made from high-quality synthetic fibers that mimic natural hair. Heat-resistant fibers are preferable as they allow for styling with heat tools.

• Cap Construction:
  • Lace Front Wigs: These wigs offer a more natural-looking hairline and are ideal for characters with exposed hairlines. However, they require careful handling.
  • Traditional Wefted Wigs: These wigs provide more volume and are better for styles that don't require a visible hairline.

Preparing Your Hair

• Clean and Dry: Start with clean, dry hair to prevent any oils or dirt from affecting the wig.
• Braid or Pin: Braid long hair or pin it flat against your scalp. For short hair, simply pin it back.
• Wig Cap: Wear a wig cap to keep your hair in place and create a smooth surface for the wig. There are two main types of wig caps:
  • Netted Cap: Ideal for breathability and ease of pinning.
  • Nylon Cap: Provides a smooth surface and is useful for lace front wigs.

Materials Needed

• Base wig
• Ponytail extension or additional wefts
• Wig head
• Wig cap
• Hairpins and clips
• Hair ties
• Got2B hairspray
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors
• Comb and brush
• Optional: Thermoplastic (Worbla), aluminum wire, PVC pipe for structural support

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Detangling the Wig

• Place the wig on a wig stand.
• Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle the wig, starting from the ends and working your way up.
• For stubborn tangles, use a detangling spray or silicone spray to reduce friction.

2. Customizing the Wig Head

• Put on your wig cap.
• Wrap your head in cling wrap and duct tape to make a form for your head.
• Draw around your hairline and ears.
• Remove the tape form from your head and place it onto your wig head.
• Stuff the inside with batting to fill the tape pattern if your wig head is too small.

3. Creating the Ponytail Base

• Cut a piece of PVC pipe long enough to go inside the base of your ponytail.
• Heat up thermoplastic (Worbla) with a heat gun and fold it to double it up.
• Cut out two strips of Worbla about 2 cm wide and press them together to form a cross.
• While the Worbla is still warm, place it on the back of your wig head to cool and form into shape.
• Attach the PVC pipe to the Worbla cross to create the base frame for the ponytail.

4. Preparing the Wig

• Cut a small hole in the crown of your wig for the PVC pipe to fit through.
• Sew or hot glue the wire into the bottom hairline of the wig for additional support.
• If your wig doesn't have clips, sew some in to help keep the wig on your head.

5. Attaching the Ponytail Extension

• Attach the extension to the base wig using hairpins or clips.
• Secure the extension with a hair tie.
• Use hot glue to attach the wefts around the edges to hide the mesh.

6. Styling the Ponytail

• Gather the hair into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
• Use Got2B hairspray to smooth any flyaways and hold the style in place.
• For added volume, tease the hair by backcombing small sections and using hairspray to hold the volume.

Advanced Techniques

• Creating Layers: Section the wig into horizontal layers and cut each layer slightly shorter than the one below it. Blend layers using thinning shears for a natural transition.
• Heat Styling: Use a flat iron or curling iron on a low heat setting to style heat-resistant wigs. Avoid using high heat to prevent damage.
• Creating a Hairline: To create a natural-looking hairline, glue short wefts onto a piece of felt cut into the shape of your desired hairline. Trim and style the wefts to blend seamlessly with the wig.

Maintaining Your Wig

• Detangling: Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle the wig, starting from the ends and working your way up.
• Washing: Wash your wig after several wears using a gentle shampoo. Fill a basin with lukewarm water, add a small amount of shampoo, and soak the wig. Gently swish it around, rinse thoroughly, and let it air dry on a wig stand.
• Storage: Store your wig on a wig stand or in a wig bag to maintain its shape and prevent tangling.

Additional Tips

• Practice Makes Perfect: Styling a wig takes practice, so don't get discouraged if it doesn't turn out perfect the first time.
• Use Quality Products: Invest in high-quality wigs and styling products to achieve the best results.
• Seek Inspiration: Look for tutorials and inspiration from other cosplayers. Websites like CrazeCosplay.com and YouTube channels dedicated to cosplay wig styling can provide valuable tips and techniques.

Conclusion