Have you ever wondered what doll hair is made of? It’s a topic often overlooked, yet understanding the materials used can enhance your appreciation for these beloved toys. From the silky strands of My Little Ponies to the luscious locks of Barbies, each doll’s hair has its own unique story. In this article, we’ll unravel the mysteries and introduce you to the different types of doll hair. So, let’s dive in!
Types of Doll Hair
Nylon: Versatile and Easy to Work With
Nylon hair, also known as Nylon 6, is a popular choice for various toys, including My Little Ponies. One of the reasons for its popularity is its porous nature, which makes it ideal for dyeing. With a melting temperature of 410-428 Fahrenheit (210-220 Celsius), nylon hair can withstand boil washing and perming. You can easily dye nylon hair using Rit or Acid dye, avoiding human hair dye or markers that can stain and eventually fade. This versatile hair type comes in a wide range of colors, offering endless possibilities for customization.
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Kiwi Hair: The New Kid on the Block
Introduced in 2013, Kiwi hair has quickly gained popularity among doll and toy companies. It surpasses Nylon and Saran in terms of durability and color retention over time. With a texture resembling silk, Kiwi hair is simply stunning. Like Nylon, it is porous and can be dyed using Rit or Acid dye. Boil washing and perming Kiwi hair is a breeze, making it a joy to work with.
Saran: The Classic Choice for Barbie
Saran hair, commonly found in Barbies and Monster High dolls, offers a unique set of characteristics. With a melting temperature of 320 Fahrenheit (160 Celsius), Saran is a non-porous material that resists regular dyes like Rit or acid dyes. Special industrial dyes such as Rit Dyemore or iDye Poly can be used, but caution is advised to prevent staining. Boil washing and perming are possible, but using a flat iron or curling iron with Saran is not recommended.
Monofiber: The Epitome of Quality
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Monofiber, also known as henlon or high-temperature synthetic fiber, is the epitome of synthetic hair quality. Often found in BJD and cosplay wigs, Monofiber is a non-porous material that does not dye with regular Rit or acid dyes. Boil washing and perming are feasible, but holding a curl may require some extra effort. One effective technique is to dip the hair in boiling water for a few seconds, followed by dipping it in ice water multiple times. Straightening with a flat iron or curling with a curling iron is another option. While idye Poly and Rit Dyemore can be used for dyeing, be mindful of the potential for staining.
Polypropylene: Similar to Nylon, Yet Different
Polypropylene often gets mistaken for nylon due to its similarities. However, it has a drier feel and a harder time curling, resembling Saran in some aspects. Polypropylene can only be dyed using idye Poly or Rit Dyemore, as regular Rit and Acid dyes won’t work. It has a tendency to separate into plugs easily.
Kanekalon: Versatility at Its Best
Kanekalon hair comes in various types, each with its own unique traits. Doll Grade Japanese Kanekalon is the softest and most delicate. It is recommended for rooting using the needle knot method, as it is prone to breakage. Doll Grade Silky Kanekalon is stiffer and perfect for straight hairstyles. Regular Kanekalon is super kinky and floofy, suitable for styles like mermaid or crimped 80s hair and dreadlocks. Both Silky and Regular Kanekalon can only withstand low-temperature settings. For dyeing, idye Poly or Rit Dyemore should be used, as regular Rit and Acid dyes won’t work.
Nylatex: A Mid-Grade Nylon Alternative
Nylatex is a mid-grade nylon, slightly lower in quality compared to standard nylon. It has a similar texture to silky Kanekalon but is stiffer. Boil washing and perming are possible, but holding a curl can be tricky. Similar to Monofiber, dipping it in boiling water and then in ice water multiple times can help achieve the desired curls. For dyeing, idye Poly and Rit Dyemore are options, but staining is still a risk.
Acetate: A Natural Feel
Acetate, made up of cellulose, used to be a common material for doll hair. It has a more “natural” feel, although information about styling and dyeing is scarce.
Synthetic: When the Type Remains Unknown
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The term “synthetic” is a generic label used when the manufacturer doesn’t specify the type of hair. It could be similar to yaki hair or kanekalon, coarser compared to nylon and other types. When working with synthetic hair, it’s advisable to test a small strand before using boiling water, hot tools like flat irons or curling irons.
Ombre Synthetic: Versatility with Heat Resistance
Ombre Synthetic hair stands out as high-temperature hair that can withstand up to 360 degrees. It is suitable for making dreads, mini braids, and can be straightened or left wavy for a mermaid or 80s style. Heat styling with a curling iron or flat iron is possible on low settings.
When working with any unfamiliar type of hair, it’s always a good idea to test it before styling. This precaution ensures that the hair will work well for your project.
To dive deeper into the world of doll hair and explore the various materials firsthand, visit RetroDollsUS on Etsy.
Now that you know the secrets behind doll hair, you can appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that go into creating these iconic toys. From the vibrant colors of nylon hair to the durability of Kiwi hair, each type has its own charm. So, whether you’re a collector, a customizer, or simply a doll enthusiast, embrace the diversity of doll hair and let your creativity unfold!
Source: https://t-tees.com
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