How to make a Template

Since the key to the success of a hairpiece is its fit, the base must correspond to the patron’s head shape and original hairline recession. Making a tape template of the head which can be seen through and drawn upon is an ideal way to develop a pattern for such a base to make the proper hairpiece. 

  • Place an 18-inch square of clear plastic wrap so that it covers the top portion of the head.
  • After pressing the wrap close to the head, use tape to contour the head shape.
  • Beginning at the forehead, place transparent tape on the wrap over what will become the outer perimeters of the pattern.
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  • The areas of baldness determine these outer perimeters.
  • After you have taped the boundaries, cover the inner portion of the plastic wrap with overlapping pieces of tape.
  • Apply 3 layers of tape.
  • The tape will lock the plastic wrap into a permanent transparent tape template.

Hairpiece Pattern

Using a Sharpie permanent marker, draw pattern lines on the tape template while it is still on your head. Though requirements vary from person to person, some rules of thumb apply to most. Front hairline should usually be established by placing 3 or 4 of your fingers (depending on your age) about the brow line. Lines are drawn from that point to form a pattern, which covers the bald area. Deeper recessions look most natural.

temp3.jpg (6602 bytes) After the entire outer perimeter of the pattern is drawn, the desired style should be indicated.

If a part is desired, draw a line from a pivot point at back crown to the front hairline. Placement of the pivot point should correspond to what can be seen of your original growth.

 
Indicate the probable growth pattern on the tape template, the date the tape template is made, as well as other pertinent information concerning your hairpiece. After you have finished marking the tape template, add one more layer of tape (now 4) to cover and seal in the markings. Since the average life of a hairpiece is 12 to 18 months, good record keeping is advisable to keep the hair piece current. Remove the tape template from your head and trim the excess plastic wrap off. temp4.jpg (5207 bytes)