How to Color a Cheap Wig
Many times it's hard to find the perfect shade when purchasing an inexpensive wig. Dying a wig is an option that is often overlooked. However, it's not as difficult as it sounds. With the use of regular human hair dye, or by using an acrylic paint mixture, changing the color of a wig can be accomplished in only a few hours. The end result will be the perfect shade to match that costume or outfit.
Items Needed:
- white wig
- regular hair dye
- latex gloves
- a comb
- hair dye brush
- container for water
- warm water
- wig form
- acrylic paint
- old towel
- cold water
- Purchase a white wig. This is the easiest color to use since the end result will be a truer shade. Find one that has the desired hair style. Purchase regular hair dye, if using the dye method. If using the acrylic paint method, purchase a large tube of the desired color. Consider mixing two or more tubes of paint if the exact color match cannot be found.
- Wet the wig with warm water and place it on the wig form. Use the comb to separate the synthetic hair strands. Put on the latex gloves.
- If using the hair dye method, mix it according to the package directions and proceed as directed. Apply it with a hair dye brush so that it goes on evenly and doesn't tangle the hair. Comb often during the process to keep the wig from becoming nappy. Wait the recommended amount of time, then rinse the dye out using warm water. Comb the wig and let it air dry completely.
- If using the acrylic paint method, fill a container with about 24 ounces of warm water. Add a small amount of the acrylic paint to the water. Mix well until the paint is evenly distributed. Add any additional colors if blending for a certain shade. The consistency should be that of melted latex. Using the dye brush, carefully brush the mixture onto the wet wig which is on the wig form. Use the comb to separate the synthetic wig strands so that they aren't clumped together when the hair dries. Allow to dry for two to three hours. Rinse with cold water until no more color runs out of the wig. Dry the wig with an old towel and comb it out. Let wig air dry completely. It is possible to just add streaks of color to the wig using this technique.
- Comb out dry wig. It is now ready to wear.