Understanding Wig Construction Methods
Wigs come in a variety of styles to suit different needs and tastes. However, all wigs are produced using one of two main construction techniques – machine made or hand tied.
Machine Made Wigs
As the name implies, machine made wigs are constructed entirely by machine. After the hair fibers are cut to the desired length, they are fed into a machine that:
- Anchors the hair onto a polyurethane or spandex cap using heated needles
- The machine tightly secures hundreds of hairs per square inch for a full coverage look
Are factory made wigs good? Machine made wigs are mass produced quickly, the hair-to-cap application lacks nuanced control. This can result in a stiff, robotic appearance up close.
Handmade Wigs
In contrast, handmade wigs involve an artisan tying each individual hair onto the cap by hand. This labor-intensive process takes significantly more time but allows for:
- More natural hair layers and parting like real hair
- Strands tied in a delicate one-by-one manner to mimic the scalp
- Hair densities that vary across frontal, crown and nape areas
The hand-tied technique creates a much more seamless and life-like look, with natural hairline and parting definitions.
Other Considerations
Beyond construction, other factors influence the quality and longevity of a wig. Higher end wigs feature:
- 100% remy human hair that feels silky soft
- Thin, breathable lace fronts and extended nape area
- A durable, lightweight cap made of special fabrics
- Hand-tied wefting along with machine ties for extra durability
While pricier initially, a well-made hand-tied wig can last years with proper care like washing, conditioning and restyling 1-2 times per week.
Choosing the Right Wig Type
Factors like budget, intended usage, and desired naturalness level determine whether machine-made or hand-tied construction is preferable. Both have pros and cons, so understand your needs and try different options on to find the best fit.