If you’ve ever purchased a wig that was too big, or if your wig has stretched out over time, you may be wondering if there’s anything you can do to make it smaller. The good news is that there are a few simple techniques you can try at home to reduce the size of your wig. While some methods are temporary, others are more permanent, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to make a wig smaller at home, including step-by-step instructions for each method. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned wig wearer, this guide will help you achieve the perfect fit.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather your materials. You will need a wig, a pair of scissors, a needle and thread, and a measuring tape. If you are using a heat method, you will also need a blow dryer or a curling iron. Once you have your materials, you can choose the method that you want to use to make your wig smaller. If you are looking for a temporary solution, you can try using water or hairspray. If you want a more permanent solution, you can try cutting the wig or sewing it.
Once you have chosen your method, follow the instructions carefully. If you are using water, simply wet the wig and then put it on your head. The water will help to shrink the wig and make it fit more snugly. If you are using hairspray, spray the wig liberally and then put it on your head. The hairspray will help to hold the wig in place and prevent it from stretching out. If you are cutting the wig, be sure to measure the wig carefully before you start cutting. You don’t want to cut too much off, or you will end up with a wig that is too small. If you are sewing the wig, you can either sew it in the back or the sides. Sewing the wig in the back will make the wig smaller overall, while sewing it in the sides will make the wig narrower.
Shrinking the Cap Circumference
1. Measure Your Head
Before you start shrinking the wig cap, you need to measure your head to determine how much you need to reduce the circumference. To do this, use a soft measuring tape and wrap it around your head, just above your ears and eyebrows. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Calculating the Amount of Reduction
To calculate the amount of reduction needed, subtract your head measurement from the circumference of the wig cap. For example, if your head measurement is 22 inches and the wig cap circumference is 24 inches, you need to reduce the circumference by 2 inches.
Choosing a Shrinkage Method
There are two main methods for shrinking a wig cap: using heat or using water. Heat can be applied with a blow dryer, a heat gun, or a curling iron. Water can be applied by soaking the wig cap in hot water or steaming it.
2. Applying Heat
If you choose to use heat to shrink the wig cap, take the following steps:
* Spread a towel on a flat surface.
* Place the wig cap on the towel.
* Apply heat to the wig cap, starting at the back and moving towards the front.
* Use a low heat setting and keep the heat source a few inches away from the wig cap.
* Move the heat source constantly to avoid scorching the wig cap.
* As the wig cap shrinks, use a pair of pliers to gently stretch the cap in the desired direction.
* Allow the wig cap to cool completely before putting it on.
3. Applying Water
If you choose to use water to shrink the wig cap, take the following steps:
* Fill a sink or basin with hot water.
* Add a few drops of dish soap to the water.
* Submerge the wig cap in the water.
* Let the wig cap soak for 15-30 minutes.
* Remove the wig cap from the water and wring out any excess water.
* Roll the wig cap in a towel to absorb more water.
* Use a blow dryer to dry the wig cap on a low heat setting.
* As the wig cap dries, use a pair of pliers to gently stretch the cap in the desired direction.
* Allow the wig cap to cool completely before putting it on.
Tightening the Weft Tracks
The second method to make a wig smaller involves tightening the weft tracks. This technique is more complex, but it can also be more effective. However, it’s important to proceed with caution, as you don’t want to damage the wig.
Here are the steps for tightening the weft tracks:
1. Gather your materials. You will need a needle and thread, a pair of scissors, a ruler or measuring tape, and a wig stand.
2. Identify where the wefts need to be tightened. Put on the wig and mark the areas that are too loose. You can use a chalk pencil or a piece of thread to mark the spots.
3. Remove the wefts from the cap. Use the scissors to carefully cut the threads that are holding the wefts in place. Be careful not to cut the wefts themselves.
4. Tighten the wefts. Use the needle and thread to sew the wefts back onto the cap. Make sure to pull the thread tight, but not so tight that you damage the wefts.
5. Trim the excess thread. Once the wefts are sewn back in place, trim any excess thread.
6. Style the wig. Once the wefts are tightened, you can style the wig as desired.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Can make the wig significantly smaller | More complex and time-consuming |
| More effective than other methods | Can damage the wig if not done correctly |
Reducing the Lace Frontal
Lace frontals are a great way to add length and volume to your hair, but they can also be bulky and uncomfortable. If you find that your lace frontal is too big, there are a few things you can do to make it smaller.
1. Trim the Lace
The first step to reducing the size of your lace frontal is to trim the excess lace. You can do this with a pair of sharp scissors, but be careful not to cut too close to the hair.
2. Pull the Elastic Band
Most lace frontals have an elastic band around the perimeter. You can tighten this band to make the frontal smaller.
3. Sew the Sides In
If you want to make your lace frontal significantly smaller, you can sew the sides in. This is a more permanent solution, but it will give you the best results.
To sew the sides in, you will need a needle and thread. Start by sewing the sides of the frontal together, starting at the front and working your way back. Once you reach the back, tie off the thread and trim any excess.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for sewing the sides in:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather your materials: a needle, thread, and your lace frontal. |
| 2 | Start sewing the sides of the frontal together, starting at the front and working your way back. |
| 3 | Once you reach the back, tie off the thread and trim any excess. |
Trimming the Bangs
Bangs play a crucial role in framing the face and enhancing the overall appearance of a wig. However, they can sometimes be too long or thick, obscuring the face and making the wig look bulky. Trimming the bangs can instantly transform the look of a wig and make it fit more comfortably.
Here are the steps involved in trimming wig bangs:
- Gather your materials: You will need a sharp pair of scissors, a fine-tooth comb, and a mirror.
- Prepare the wig: Place the wig on a mannequin or a wig stand to ensure it is secure and easy to work with.
- Comb the bangs: Use the fine-tooth comb to gently comb the bangs forward, smoothing out any tangles or knots.
- Determine the desired length: Decide how short you want to trim the bangs. It is always better to start with a longer length and gradually trim until you reach the desired result.
- Section the bangs: Divide the bangs into sections (e.g., left, right, and center) to make it easier to trim evenly.
- Trim the bangs: Hold the scissors parallel to the hair shafts and angle them slightly downward. Carefully trim the bangs in small, incremental cuts, following the contours of your face.
- Check the result: After trimming one section, step back and check the result in the mirror. This will help you determine if you need to trim more or less.
- Blend the bangs: Once the bangs are trimmed to the desired length, use the scissors to gently cut V-shaped notches into the ends of the bangs. This will help to blend them seamlessly with the rest of the wig.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use sharp scissors | Dull scissors can damage the hair fibers. |
| Trim in small increments | This allows you to adjust the length gradually and avoid over-trimming. |
| Hold the scissors downward | This gives the bangs a natural, slightly curved shape. |
| Check the result in the mirror | Ensuring the bangs are trimmed to your liking before making further cuts. |
| Blend the bangs | Creating a seamless transition between the bangs and the rest of the wig. |
Loose the Knots
The first step in making your wig smaller is to loose the knots. This will help to loosen the weave and make the wig easier to adjust. To do this, simply run your fingers through the wig, starting at the root and working your way to the tips. Be gentle, as you don’t want to damage the hair.
Once you’ve loosened the knots, you can start to tighten the wig. To do this, hold the wig by the base and pull the elastic band around the edges of the wig. Be sure to pull evenly, so that the wig doesn’t become uneven.
Once you’ve tightened the elastic band, you can secure it by tying a knot in the back of the wig. Trim any excess elastic band, and then you’re finished.
| Before | After |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Here are some additional tips for making your wig smaller:
- Use a wig cap to help keep the wig in place.
- Use bobby pins to secure the wig to your head.
- If the wig is too tight, you can try stretching it out by wearing it for a few hours.
- If the wig is still too tight, you can try using a wig stretcher.
Heat Resizing
Heat resizing is a more permanent method of reducing the size of your wig. It involves using heat to shrink the fibers, making the wig smaller overall. This method is best suited for synthetic heat-resistant wigs.
Materials Needed:
- Wig head or mannequin
- Blow dryer
- Heat protectant spray
- Wide-tooth comb
- Measuring tape
Steps:
- Prepare the wig: Place the wig on a wig head or mannequin. Apply heat protectant spray to the wig to prevent damage from heat.
- Blow dry the wig: Set the blow dryer to a medium heat setting. Hold the blow dryer about 6 inches away from the wig and blow dry the entire wig, including the cap.
- Stretch the wig: As you blow dry the wig, use a wide-tooth comb to gently stretch and pull the fibers outward. This will help to shrink the fibers and make the wig smaller.
- Cool the wig: Once you have stretched the wig to the desired size, turn off the blow dryer and let the wig cool completely.
- Check the size: Measure the wig again to ensure that it is the correct size. If necessary, repeat steps 2-4 until the wig is the desired size.
- Style the wig: Once the wig is the correct size, you can style it as desired. Use products that are specifically designed for heat-resistant wigs to maintain the size and style of the wig.
Adjusting the Wig Cap
This method is most effective for wigs with adjustable cap sizes. Locate the small elastic band located at the nape of the wig. Use a crochet hook or similar tool to gently pull the band tighter until the wig fits snugly. Avoid overtightening, as this can cause discomfort or damage the cap.
Using Elastic Headbands
If the wig has no built-in adjustment band, you can use an elastic headband. Place the headband around your head, just above your ears. Position the wig over the headband and secure the headband tightly, ensuring the wig fits comfortably and stays in place.
Adding Hair Clips or Bobby Pins
To make the wig tighter at the temples, insert small hair clips or bobby pins into the hair at the sides of your head. Fold or bend the clips or pins to create a snug fit without leaving any visible traces.
Tightening the Lace Front
For lace front wigs, you can tighten the front by applying adhesive or lace glue to the perimeter of the lace. Once the adhesive is applied, gently press the lace against your forehead, smoothing it out to eliminate any wrinkles or gaps. Hold the lace in place for a few minutes to ensure a secure bond.
Sewing in Elastic Bands
If the wig has an open cap design, you can sew in elastic bands to make it smaller. Measure the circumference of your head and cut a piece of elastic to the desired length. Sew one end of the elastic to the inside of the wig cap at the nape of the neck. Stretch the elastic to the opposite side of the cap and sew the other end securely. Adjust the tension of the elastic as needed.
Adjusting the Ear Tabs
Some wigs feature adjustable ear tabs that can be tightened or loosened to alter the fit. Find the ear tabs and gently pull them tighter to make the wig smaller. Secure the tabs with Velcro or snap closures.
Tips for Choosing Elastic Bands
When choosing elastic bands for adjusting a wig, consider the following factors:
|
Type of Elastic |
Elastic Width |
Elastic Thickness |
Elastic Color |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Knit Elastic |
0.25 – 0.5 inches |
1/16 – 1/8 inches |
Clear, black, or white |
|
Braided Elastic |
0.5 – 1 inches |
0.125 – 0.25 inches |
Black, brown, or blonde |
|
Woven Elastic |
1 inch or more |
0.25 inches or more |
Black, white, or custom colors |
Employing a Wig Band
A wig band, also known as an elastic band or a wig grip, can be used to reduce the circumference of a wig and provide a more secure and comfortable fit. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a wig band:
1. Gather Your Materials
You will need a wig band, a wig cap (optional), and a pair of scissors.
2. Put on a Wig Cap (Optional)
If you wish, you can wear a wig cap beneath your wig to create a barrier between your hair and the wig and to help the wig stay in place.
3. Place the Wig Band Around Your Head
Position the wig band around your head, just above your ears. Make sure it is snug but not too tight.
4. Secure the Wig Band
Overlap the ends of the wig band and secure them with a bobby pin or a safety pin.
5. Put on the Wig
Place the wig on your head and adjust it so that it is positioned correctly.
6. Secure the Wig to the Wig Band
Using bobby pins or wig clips, secure the front, sides, and back of the wig to the wig band. Make sure to distribute the pins evenly to prevent the wig from slipping.
7. Trim the Excess Wig Band
Once the wig is secured, use scissors to trim any excess wig band that extends beyond the edge of the wig.
8. Adjust the Tension
If the wig feels too tight or too loose, adjust the tension of the wig band by tightening or loosening the bobby pin or safety pin that secures it. Experiment with different levels of tension until you find a comfortable and secure fit.
Remember to adjust the tension gradually to avoid overtightening the wig, which could damage the cap or cause discomfort.
Pinning the Sides
9. **Securing the Pins: Create Anchor Points for the Elastic.**
Once you have distributed the pins around the wig’s perimeter, it’s essential to reinforce their placement. To do this, create anchor points for the elastic by securing the pins in pairs. Use additional pins to connect the pairs, creating a staggered pattern of pins. This will prevent the pins from shifting and ensure a secure hold.
For added strength, consider using bobby pins or extra-fine T-pins. These pins have a more narrow and flexible design, allowing them to pierce the wig’s cap without damaging it. They also have a ribbed surface that provides a better grip on the elastic.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Distribute pins around the wig’s perimeter |
| 2 | Secure pins in pairs, creating anchor points |
| 3 | Connect the pairs with additional pins |
| 4 | Use bobby pins or T-pins for added strength |
By following these steps, you can confidently secure the pins around the wig’s sides and establish a stable foundation for the elastic.
Professional Alterations
If you’re not comfortable with altering your wig yourself, there are professional wigmakers who can help you. They can adjust the wig’s size, style, and fit to ensure that it looks and feels natural.
10. Professional Wigmaker Services
Professional wigmakers offer a wide range of services, including:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Wig Resizing | Adjusting the wig’s size to fit your head |
| Wig Restyling | Changing the wig’s style |
| Wig Fitting | Ensuring that the wig fits comfortably and securely |
| Wig Care | Providing instructions on how to care for and maintain your wig |
When choosing a professional wigmaker, it’s important to find someone who is experienced and has a good reputation. You should also ask about their prices and schedule to make sure that they fit within your budget and timeframe.
How to Make a Wig Smaller at Home
If you’ve purchased a wig that’s too large, don’t worry – it’s possible to make it smaller at home with a few simple steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Gather your materials. You’ll need a sharp pair of scissors, a measuring tape, and some bobby pins.
- Measure the wig. Use the measuring tape to determine the circumference of the wig’s cap. Make a note of this measurement.
- Determine how much you need to remove. Subtract the desired circumference from the original circumference to determine how much you need to remove.
- Mark the wig. Use the measuring tape to mark the areas of the wig that you need to remove. Be sure to mark both the inside and outside of the cap.
- Cut the wig. Carefully cut along the marked lines. Be sure to use sharp scissors and to cut slowly and evenly.
- Secure the cut edges. Use bobby pins to secure the cut edges of the wig. This will help to prevent the wig from unraveling.
- Try on the wig. Once you’ve secured the cut edges, try on the wig to see if it fits. If it’s still too large, you can repeat the cutting process.
With a little patience and care, you can easily make a wig smaller at home. Just be sure to follow the steps carefully and to use sharp scissors.
People Also Ask
How do you tighten a wig without bobby pins?
There are a few ways to tighten a wig without bobby pins. One way is to use a wig grip. A wig grip is a thin, elastic band that you wear under your wig. It helps to keep the wig in place and prevent it from slipping.
Another way to tighten a wig without bobby pins is to use a wig cap. A wig cap is a thin, mesh cap that you wear under your wig. It helps to absorb sweat and keep your scalp dry. It can also help to keep the wig in place.
How do you make a wig fit a smaller head?
To make a wig fit a smaller head, you can follow the steps outlined in the main article. In addition, you can also try the following:
- Use a wig band. A wig band is a thin, elastic band that you wear around the circumference of your head. It helps to keep the wig in place and prevent it from slipping.
- Use wig tape. Wig tape is a double-sided tape that you can use to secure the wig to your head. It’s a good option for people who have a lot of hair or who want a more secure hold.
- Use wig glue. Wig glue is a strong adhesive that you can use to secure the wig to your head. It’s a good option for people who want a long-lasting hold.
How do you make a headband wig smaller?
To make a headband wig smaller, you can follow the steps outlined in the main article. In addition, you can also try the following:
- Use a wig grip. A wig grip is a thin, elastic band that you wear under your wig. It helps to keep the wig in place and prevent it from slipping.
- Use wig tape. Wig tape is a double-sided tape that you can use to secure the wig to your headband. It’s a good option for people who want a more secure hold.
- Use wig glue. Wig glue is a strong adhesive that you can use to secure the wig to your headband. It’s a good option for people who want a long-lasting hold.
