Wigs can greatly change the appearance of your doll, so it's important to keep those locks in good shape.
Determining wig size
Different dolls (even doll of the same height or company) will need different sized wigs. Wigs are usually sized according to the wig cap's circumference in inches. For instance, if a wig's cap is 8.5 inches around, it will be listed as size 8-9. If the wig cap is 5.7 inches, the wig size will be listed as 5-6.
To determine what size wig your doll will need, you simply have to find out how many inches around the head is and match it to the wig size. If your doll has not arrived yet for you to measure it, you can usually find your doll's measurements on the doll's company website or with a little Googling.
Silicone (or other material) wig caps
When I said "wig caps" in the first bit, I was referring to the little cap the actual hair wefts are sewn into. Here, I'm talking about silicone wig caps. These are actually designed to go straight onto your doll's bald head and under the wig to help keep the wig in place. They also help to prevent dark wigs from staining. You can also use one of these under a too-big wig to help it fit more snug on the head. You can find silicone (or cloth) wig caps at most BJD dealers' websites for $3-6 each.
photos by Dollmore and Facets
Other methods of keeping a wig in place
If you'd prefer not to buy a wig cap, there are other ways to keep a wig from slipping. I have actually used thick flat rubber bands around my doll's bald head. If you have a dark wig, you can also take a little plastic wrap and shape it to your doll's head, then wrap the rubber band around to help hold the wrap. Some owners will take some adhesive velcro and stick the coarse side to the top/front of their doll's head. The velcro will grab onto the wig's inner cap and keep it from slipping. I've even seen people use tape to hold wigs on. I'd advise against using anything that may leave a residue on your doll's head though.
Wig Care
Roughly brushing a wig is the easiest way to break the fibers and cause unsightly flyaways. If you have to remove knots, start with the ends of the fibers and carefully work at the knots. Toothbrushes make great dolly hairbrushes. The bristles are soft and easy on the hair, causing less breakage.
If you do end up with a few flyaways, taking a fresh dryer sheet and smoothing it over the wig's surface can often help to tame stray hairs down and remove static... Plus, it makes everything smell nice ;) Volks also has a wig spray available to help with styling and untamed manes.
photo by Volks
Before you throw away a damaged wig, try to soak it in fabric water mixed with fabric softener, rinse, and air dry first. Sometimes it can really soften and smooth a well-used wig.
Don't use hot-styling tools on a wig unless you know for a fact it is heat-resistant. If it's just plastic fiber, it will melt and singe your wig.
Make sure not to squish your wigs during storage. Roll some paper up and stuff it inside the wig cap to help it keep it's shape. Also, it's a good idea to keep your wigs separated so they don't tangle together. You can keep and use the little nets they come in to help keep them neat and tidy while you're not displaying them on your doll. Owners with the luxury of extra space (sadly not me) have fashioned wig stands to keep their wigs in pristine condition.
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