Spiking a wig

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How to shape a synthetic wig into sharp, gravity-defying spikes with teasing, gel and hairspray, for cosplayers recreating anime and fantasy hairstyles.

Spiking a synthetic wig is one of the most recognisable techniques in costume making, turning a flat or wavy base into the bold, gravity-defying shapes seen on anime heroes, video game characters, and fantasy figures. Before you begin, make sure your wig is sitting on a wig head and secured with pins or a clamp so both hands stay free and the shape you build actually reflects how the wig will sit on your own head. The process has a clear order, and working through it in sequence makes a real difference to how long your spikes last. Start by teasing, or backcombing, the section of fibre you want to form a spike. Hold the group of strands near the tip and gently push a wide-tooth comb or a teasing comb back towards the base in short strokes. This roughs up the fibres and gives them body to hold a shape. Once a section is teased, smooth the outer layer lightly with your fingers or a bristle brush to define the point, then pinch and press the fibres into the spike shape you want. With the shape roughed in, apply a small amount of strong-hold styling gel or a similar firm-hold product, working it through the fibres from base to tip. Many makers use their fingers or an old toothbrush to press the product in without disturbing the spike shape. Give the spike a final pinch at the tip to sharpen the point, then hold it in place while you hit it with a light pass of strong-hold hairspray, keeping the can at a comfortable distance so the spray does not flatten the work. Let each spike dry before moving to the next; rushing this step is the most common reason spikes droop by mid-afternoon at a convention. Once the whole wig is done and fully dry, a second pass of hairspray over the finished piece adds an extra layer of hold. For very tall or heavy spikes, some makers add a small internal wire armature hidden inside the fibre before applying product, which gives the spike something rigid to wrap around. Bend or tape over the cut ends of any wire so they cannot poke through the cap into your scalp. Keep a small bottle of hairspray and a little extra gel in your bag on the day in case a spike needs a quick rescue. Avoid humid environments where you can, as moisture is the main enemy of a spiked wig. Safety here is low-risk but worth a quick note. Use aerosol hairsprays in a ventilated space or near an open window, and keep the spray away from your face and eyes. Hairspray is flammable, so keep it well away from heat tools, candles and open flames, and let the wig dry before any heat goes near it. Strong-hold styling products can irritate skin, so wash your hands after handling them. If you are helping a younger maker with this technique, supervise any use of aerosols and make sure the work area has good airflow.