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Tip Tuesday: How to Measure Your Head for a Custom Wig Using Weft Extensions

If you’re taking your weft extensions to a hairstylist for a custom wig or planning to create your own DIY wig, accurate head measurements are essential. A wig that fits perfectly will lay flawlessly, feel comfortable, and last longer, whether it’s a glueless unit, a lace closure wig, or a frontal wig. 

 

At Yummy Extensions, we know that a well-fitted wig starts with the right foundation. That means before you hand your Weft Extensions over to a stylist or start sewing, you’ll need to measure your head correctly to ensure a custom-made unit that fits like a glove. 

 

Let’s break down the six essential head measurements for creating a flawless custom wig. 

How to Measure Your Head for a Custom Wig Using Weft Extensions

Why Wigs Are a Great Option 

Wigs are a versatile and protective styling option that allows you to change your look without altering your natural hair. Wearing a wig can help protect your natural hair from heat damage, over-manipulation, and environmental factors that can lead to breakage. Whether you’re looking for a sleek straight style, voluminous curls, or bold color, wigs provide endless styling possibilities while keeping your natural hair healthy and growing underneath. 

 

Why Measuring Your Head is Essential for a Custom Wig 

Unlike pre-made wigs, custom wigs are tailored to your exact head size and shape for a snug, natural fit. Incorrect measurements can lead to: 

  • A wig that’s too tight, causing tension and headaches. 

  • A wig that’s too loose, shifting and lifting while you wear it. 

  • A bulky or unnatural look, especially around the hairline and nape. 

 

Getting the right fit ensures: 

  • A secure, comfortable fit that stays in place all day. 

  • A natural-looking hairline and scalp, with no gaps or lifting. 

  • A flawless, long-lasting install, whether sewn down or glueless. 

 

Now let’s measure properly for the best fit. 

 

1. Circumference – The Most Important Measurement 

The circumference is the total measurement around your head, which determines the overall size of your wig cap. This ensures your custom wig fits securely without being too tight or too loose. 

 

How to Measure: 

  • Start at the center of your forehead, placing the measuring tape at your hairline or slightly below, depending on where you prefer your wig to sit.

  • Wrap the tape around your head, passing it behind your ears and across your nape.

  • Bring it back around to the front of your forehead where you started.

  • Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight for accuracy. 

If you like your wig to sit slightly forward past your natural hairline, measure from where you’d like the lace to start. Most people fall within a circumference range of 21-23 inches, with 22 inches being the most common size. 

 

2. Front to Nape – The Foundation for a Secure Fit 

This measurement determines how long the wig cap should be from the front of your head to the nape of your neck. It helps your wig stay flat and secure. 

 

How to Measure: 

  • Place the measuring tape at your hairline or where you’d like your wig to start. 

  • Pull the tape straight back, over the crown of your head, and down to your nape. 

  • If needed, split your natural hair into two ponytails so you can bring the tape down the middle for a flatter measurement. 

 

For most people, this measurement falls between 12-14 inches. 

 

3. Temple to Temple – Making Sure Your Wig Fits Around Your Edges 

This measurement ensures the wig cap lays naturally around your edges and isn’t too small or too wide. 

 

How to Measure: 

  • Place the measuring tape at one temple, slightly above the ear. 

  • Stretch it across your forehead to the other temple and note the measurement. 

 

This is crucial for lace closure wigs or wigs with minimal leave-out, as it determines how naturally your wig blends with your edges. The average measurement for temple to temple ranges between 12.5-14.5 inches. 

 

4. Nape of Neck – Avoid Bulkiness at the Back 

Measuring the nape ensures your wig fits smoothly and comfortably at the back without bunching up or feeling too tight. 

 

How to Measure: 

  • Place the measuring tape at one side of your nape. 

  • Stretch it straight across to the other side of your nape. 

 

A well-fitted nape measurement ensures your wig sits naturally, making it easier to wear in ponytails and sleek styles. Most nape measurements range from 4.5-6 inches. 

 

5. Ear to Ear – Essential for Lace Frontal Wigs 

If you’re making a frontal wig, this measurement is key to ensuring your lace lays seamlessly from ear to ear. 

 

How to Measure: 

  • Place the measuring tape at the top of one ear. 

  • Stretch it over the top of your head to the top of your other ear. 

 

If you want your frontal wig to be glueless, subtract 1 inch from your ear-to-ear measurement for a more secure fit. Ear-to-ear measurements typically range from 12-14 inches. 

 

How to Use These Measurements for a Perfect DIY or Custom Wig 

Once you have all six measurements, you can use them to: 

  • Tell your stylist your exact head size for a perfectly tailored unit. 

  • Adjust your wig cap size before sewing in your wefts. 

  • Ensure your lace closure or frontal fits naturally before installation. 

 

Most custom wigs are made based on a 22-inch cap size, but these measurements allow you to create a unit tailored just for you. 

 

Final Tips for Measuring Your Head for a Custom Wig 

  • Use a flexible measuring tape for accuracy.

  • Measure twice to make sure your numbers are correct.

  • Braid or slick back your hair before measuring to get the flattest fit possible.

  • If you’re between sizes, size up and adjust your wig cap with elastic bands or clips for a snug fit. 

If you wish to skip the custom wig process, we invite you to explore our ready to wear wigs. Simply follow the steps above to help with guidance on your wig size before purchase.  

 

Get the Perfect Fit for Your Custom Wig 

Taking the time to measure your head correctly is the first step to a flawless, comfortable, and natural-looking custom wig. Whether you’re getting your Yummy Extensions wefts made into a wig by a stylist or you’re ready to create your own DIY unit, these measurements will ensure a perfect fit every time. 

 

Now that you know how to measure your head, it’s time to create your dream wig. Shop Yummy Extensions today for high-quality, luxury weft extensions that will bring your custom wig vision to life.

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