Wig Cap Construction Explained
Different Types of Wig Cap Construction:
1. Monofilament Wigs
There are two main plus points of monofilament wigs – naturalness and versatility. Monofilament wigs use a sheer polyester or soft nylon mesh at the top and crown area so that your skin colour can show through and create a natural scalp appearance.
There are three types of monofilament wigs:
MONOFILAMENT TOP
MONOFILAMENT PART
MONOFILAMENT CROWN
These types of wig constructions relate to the particular area on the cap that the sheer mesh section is situated. Hairs are individually hand-tied to the section of material to emulate natural hair movement. This design also allows for multi-directional styling and simulates that all-important natural hair growth look. The lightweight material used in monofilament wigs provides a softer feel against the scalp with the benefit of cooling comfort throughout the day. Monofilament wigs are ideal for women with sensitive scalps as the breathable fabric proves less irritating than a cloth cap design.
Double monofilament wigs are another available option. These wigs are constructed using a double layer of monofilament material. This design provides even greater protection from scalp irritation, particularly for women who are sensitive to hand-tied knots. The second layer of monofilament is added to the knotted under-layer to create a smoother feel against the scalp.
PROS
Versatile styling options with multi-directional natural hair movement from the scalp.
A lightweight material that is cooling and comfortable.
There is also the option of double monofilament wigs which provide even greater protection for women with sensitive scalps.
CONS
Can be slightly more expensive than other types of wigs.
Hand-tied knots may cause irritation on some scalps – but don’t forget double monofilament wigs are always a great alternative for sensitive scalps!
For everything you need to know, please take a look at our dedicated post on monofilament wigs.
2. Lace Front Wigs
Lace front wigs are one of the most natural-looking wig cap constructions available. An undetectable sheer lace front to your wig will create a natural-looking hairline. The lace front on this also allows you to style your wig away from your face without having to worry that the wig edge is visible. This type of wig construction is ideal for ladies who have experienced hair loss along the front hairline, as the invisible lace gives you the confidence to style your wig exactly how you want to.
PROS
Creates the illusion of a natural hairline construction for a style that is swept ‘off the face’.
A convincing, realistic look due to the hand-constructed hairline which is undetectable.
CONS
Not the most budget-friendly type of wig cap construction there is.
The sheer lace at the front does need to be handled with care when putting the wig on and taking it off. If you’re new to wigs and would some advice on how to put on a wig, then please check out our blog post dedicated to the topic.
Lace front wigs are a popular choice as they look so natural; take a look at our blog post to look at celebrity lace front wigs.
3. Hand-tied Wigs
Hand-tied wigs can be made using either synthetic or human hair. Each strand of hair or synthetic fiber is sewn individually onto a mesh cap using a hand-knotting technique. This process relies on handmade craftsmanship and is not reliant on machines or mechanical stitching. A hand-tied wig can take up to three days to construct by a skilled crafts person, an intensive process that produces a quality design. This also allows the hair to move freely for realistic movement and versatile styling. Hand-tied wigs are the go-to designs of the SW team.
The wig construction of the hand-tied also puts it at the forefront of comfort. There are no seams or wefts, meaning that it will be incredibly soft against the scalp, and this also creates a lower density in the wig for a natural look. Because of the lack of wefts, this wig construction is perfect for ladies who have suffered complete hair loss and want to avoid irritation to a sensitive scalp. Hand-tied wigs are very light to wear and will keep your head cool and ventilated throughout the day.
PROS
Expertly made as each hair, or fiber is individually sewn onto a mesh cap by a skilled crafts person, a process which could take up to three days.
A luxury softness against the skin as it doesn’t require a weft or structural seams.
Creates a lighter density which means the wig is lightweight, cool and comfortable.
Versatile styling
CONS
With all the benefits that this type of wig construction provides, it means the prices of these wigs are usually more expensive.
4. Wefted /Open Cap Wigs
Wefted wigs are also known as cappless wigs or open cap wigs. They’re the most basic wig cap construction to buy, but they’re also one of the most popular types of wigs. Open cap wigs are made from wefts of synthetic or human hair, which are spaced out across the wig cap. As the name implies, open cap wigs have just that – open construction at the wig’s scalp, allowing for the wig to be more lightweight, breathable and affordable.
As opposed to different types of wigs with closed wefts, open wefts mean that many wig wearers prefer cappless wigs as they allow for the scalp to breathe, perfect for those hot summer months! Wefted wigs also have a feature called permatease, which is located at the top of the wig. This creates lift and volume, which will stay with you throughout the day!
PROS
Affordable wig construction.
Ideal for occasional wig-wears and ladies who don’t require wigs due to hair loss.
Breathability.
Permatease volume.
CONS
Unable to support styling versatility.
Although more human hair wigs are becoming available with this wig cap construction, the majority of open cap wigs tend to be synthetic wigs.
The parting and crown of wefted wigs can sometimes be said to look quite noticeable.
If you think that open cap wigs are the hair loss solution for you; take a read of our guide on capless wigs.
5. Combination Wigs
Combination wigs are made up of different types of wig construction and design to create a more bespoke feeling unit. Innerbellezza Wigs have some suppliers that like to combine wig designs to ensure that the customer has a comfortable wig wearing experience. There are a few different types of combinations that are popular.
Some monofilament styles can be combined, using a machine-made method for most of the wig, then finished with a hand-tied top. This gives you all of the benefits of a hand-tied mesh wig whilst being more affordable.
Other types of combination wigs include welded lace wigs. Welded lace refers to fibres that have been so tightly interwoven they resemble a welded fabric. This type of lace is very durable. However, it can be prone to separating.
Another combination style is French Drawn. This type of wig is constructed with two layers of glass-silk and one layer of swiss lace, resulting in a realistic scalp appearance and comfortable wearability.
PROS
Can get the best of both worlds from different types of wigs.
Can result in a more comfortable and natural wig.
Affordable options.
CONS
May require more care due to different types of lace.
Trimming welded lace results in hair separation.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF WIG CAP KNOTS:
1. Single Knots
Single knots refer to a type of knot that’s only been tied once. This technique allows the hair to remain flat. This method can only be used in certain types of wigs it is more likely to be used for the temple and scalp areas of a wig. A single knot is rarely used for the front or top of a wig.
2. Single Split Knots
The knot has still only been tied once, however, the hair is ventilated due to two strands coming out of one hole. This type of wig knotting technique is used mostly at the front due to its ability to create a gradual, natural hairline.
3. Double Knot
This is the most durable type of knot, meaning it’s versatile and can be used in many different types of wigs, and mainly used for integration hairpieces whereby natural hair lies on top of the wig piece. Although it is strong, it’s the most detectable knot of the bunch.
4. Double Split Knot
The look and feel of a single split knot, with the durability of a double knot. This technique is great for lace and mono base designs as this knot is less visible than a double knot.
Now you know the different types of wig construction, why not browse our beginners guide to wearing a wig? Not only does this guide discuss the four types of wig caps, but the guide can also help you choose the right style and size of synthetic or human hair wig for you! Remember, it’s all about what is right for you and the wigs that will make you feel amazing when wearing them.
If you have any queries or questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team of wig specialists.