Roles · role
Wig Master
Also known as Wig Supervisor, Wig Designer.
A Wig Master designs, sources, fits, alters, ventilates, colors, styles, applies, maintains, and tracks wigs, hairpieces, facial hair, and related appliances. They translate character and period requirements into secure, natural-looking pieces that match performers and continuity under close camera scrutiny.
Wig work combines design, fine handcraft, hair knowledge, lace, color, fit, adhesives, performer care, and detailed continuity.
Large projects may divide design, making, dressing, application, and maintenance among several specialists under the Wig Master.
Pre-production responsibilities
- Design, source, measure, fit, build, test, photograph, and prepare wigs and pieces.
Production responsibilities
- Apply, style, maintain, reset, remove, repair, and document assigned pieces.
Post-production responsibilities
- Clean, block, inventory, preserve, return, and archive pieces and records.
Common questions
Does a Wig Master make every wig from scratch?
Not always. They may build, rent, buy, alter, combine, or customize pieces depending on design, schedule, budget, and fit.
What does a Wig Master do day to day?
Day to day, Wig Master work commonly includes Break down scripts for wigs, pieces, facial hair, duplicates, stunts, and continuity., Measure, fit, source, build, ventilate, alter, color, and style pieces., and Plan safe skin preparation, application, anchoring, removal, cleaning, and storage.. The exact balance changes with the production schedule, crew size, and the point at which the role joins the project.
What skills matter most for a Wig Master?
The most useful skills are Wig construction and ventilation, Fitting, Hair color and styling, Lace application, and Continuity. Together, they help the role make dependable decisions, communicate a clear handoff, and respond to notes or changing conditions.
Which tools and documents does a Wig Master use?
Common tools include Wig blocks, heads, stands, lace, needles, and ventilation tools, Human and synthetic hair, wefts, pieces, and facial-hair materials, Color, styling, adhesive, removal, cleaning, and repair supplies, and Measurement, fitting, continuity, and inventory systems. The role also relies on Measurements, Wig design and source log, Application notes, and Continuity photos so decisions, approvals, continuity, and delivery requirements remain traceable.
How does someone build experience for a Wig Master?
Wig Masters develop through hair styling, wig shops, theater, opera, ventilating, facial hair, and supervised production work.
How does a Wig Master vary by production?
The scope changes with format, budget, location, crew structure, and the production's technical method. The craft divides between detailed bench work, fittings, early applications, active-set maintenance, cleaning, and secure storage.
Union and local practice notes
- Wig, hair, makeup, and licensing jurisdiction varies by region and agreement.
Sources
- Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild craft overview
- Motion picture industry craft groups
- Costume Designer definitions and duties
Educational reference only. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, employer, venue, and production context.