Wigs and materials

There are various materials and methods used to make BJD wigs--listed are just a few.



Synthetic fiber comes in a wide variety of colors, and some fibers are heat-resistant and can be styled in a variety of ways. These wigs can come in a range of lengths and styles that are not limited by how long a natural fiber can grow. Synthetic fiber may be sewn on in wefts or "rooted" into the wig cap in a way similar to that of many fashion dolls.

Mohair can mean wool or fur from a range of animals, commonly alpacas and angora sheep. These wigs may be made from the tanned leather of an animal with the hair still intact, or the fur may be applied in wefts by sewing or gluing. Most often, the nature of the wool makes these wigs fluffy, curly, and soft. Sometimes the fur may be straight and silky, and can have a very natural look.

Fur wigs are generally made with faux fur, and the patterns can vary from a simple design of two half-circles, or may be more complex depending on the maker. Head shapes may vary, so some patterns may be better suited to different heads. Higher quality fur wigs may be hemmed to give a more finished feel, but not all fur wigs will come hemmed.

Human hair is less common than other types of wigs, but because it is human hair it can be styled and dyed with the same methods you'd use on your own head! With that versatility, however, comes the same disadvantages such as split ends and frizzing. Human hair can lay down better on a head depending on the coarseness of the hair, and can look the most natural on a doll.

There are different kinds of wigs made from yarn, as well. Some are made with crocheted or knitted wig caps and the yarn attached as-is, and others are made by tying unraveled yarn fibers to one large string and brushing the fibers until they are soft and natural-looking. Some people will make dreadlocks with yarn, as well. One can make a yarn wig of whatever color they can find at the store, and length can be adjusted to one's linking.

There are also some recent ventures into using soy and similar fibers for making doll wigs. The fibers are very soft and cheaper than mohair. Soy fibers are also biodegradable and a renewable resource. They also take to dye very well.