The history of the postiche
This subtopic explores the evolution of postiche (wigs, hairpieces, and hair extensions) from ancient civilisations to the present day, examining how materials, construction methods, and styling have been influenced by cultural, social, and technological changes. Learners will gain insight into the historical significance of wigs as indicators of status, fashion, and profession, and how this heritage informs modern wig-making practices and client consultation.
Assessment criteria
Topic Overview
The VTCT Skills (ITEC) Level 2 Certificate in Wig Making is a foundational qualification designed for students aspiring to enter the wig-making industry, whether for theatrical, medical, or fashion purposes. This course covers the entire process of creating a bespoke wig, from measuring and blocking to knotting and finishing. Students learn to work with different hair types, including synthetic and human hair, and gain skills in ventilation (knotting) techniques essential for producing natural-looking wigs. The qualification also emphasises health and safety, client consultation, and the maintenance of wigs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for employment or further study.
Wig making is a specialised craft that combines artistry with technical precision. This certificate is particularly valuable for those aiming to work in theatre, film, television, or healthcare settings where wigs are used for hair loss solutions. The course not only teaches practical skills but also instils an understanding of wig history, design principles, and the importance of hygiene. By mastering these techniques, students can create wigs that are comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing, meeting the diverse needs of clients.
Within the broader Service Industries sector, wig making sits at the intersection of hairdressing, costume design, and medical prosthetics. This qualification provides a solid foundation for progression to higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 3 Diploma in Wig Making, or specialisation in areas like theatrical makeup or hairpiece construction. The skills learned are highly transferable, and the demand for skilled wig makers remains steady in entertainment and healthcare industries.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Ventilation (knotting): The technique of knotting hair into a lace base using a specialised hook. Students must master different knot types (e.g., single, double, and split knots) to achieve density and natural movement.
- →Blocking and shaping: Preparing a wig block (mannequin head) to match the client's head measurements, then securing the lace base tightly to ensure accurate fit and tension during knotting.
- →Hair preparation: Sorting, cleaning, and blending hair (human or synthetic) to create a consistent colour and texture. This includes understanding hair grades and how to handle different hair types.
- →Foundation construction: Building the base of the wig using materials like lace, netting, and weft. Students learn to cut, sew, and shape the foundation to fit the block precisely.
- →Finishing and styling: Techniques such as cutting, layering, and setting the wig to achieve the desired style. This also includes adding final touches like baby hairs and securing the wig with adhesives or clips.
What You Need to Demonstrate
Key skills and knowledge for this topic
- Award credit for accurately identifying key historical periods and their characteristic wig styles (e.g., Egyptian shaved heads and elaborate wigs, Baroque powdered perukes, Victorian hairwork).
- Award credit for demonstrating understanding of the evolution of materials and techniques, from natural human hair and horsehair to synthetic fibres, and from hand-knotting to machine wefting.
- Award credit for linking historical practices to contemporary applications, such as recognition of period-specific styling for theatre, film, or medical hair loss solutions.
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Award credit for accurately identifying key historical periods and their characteristic wig styles (e.g., Egyptian shaved heads and elaborate wigs, Baroque powdered perukes, Victorian hairwork).
- Award credit for demonstrating understanding of the evolution of materials and techniques, from natural human hair and horsehair to synthetic fibres, and from hand-knotting to machine wefting.
- Award credit for linking historical practices to contemporary applications, such as recognition of period-specific styling for theatre, film, or medical hair loss solutions.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡Use a timeline approach to structure your knowledge, identifying at least three distinct historical periods with key features for easy recall under assessment conditions.
- 💡When faced with portfolio evidence tasks, include annotated images or sketches showing period-specific wig construction to illustrate depth of understanding.
- 💡Always tie historical knowledge back to practical outcomes: explain how an awareness of historical styles can improve client satisfaction in contemporary wig services.
- 💡Pay close attention to tension when knotting. Consistent tension ensures the hair lies flat and moves naturally. Practice on a small sample before starting the main wig to get a feel for the correct tension.
- 💡Always double-check your measurements. A wig that is too tight or too loose will be uncomfortable for the client. Use a measuring tape and record measurements accurately, including circumference, ear-to-ear, and nape-to-forehead.
- 💡In your practical exam, demonstrate good health and safety practices. Keep your workstation tidy, sterilise tools, and wear gloves when handling adhesives. Examiners look for professionalism and attention to hygiene.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Confusing the terms ‘postiche’ and ‘wig’ as interchangeable, rather than postiche encompassing all types of added hair.
- Assuming that synthetic fibres are a modern invention, without recognising early experiments with artificial hair in the 19th century.
- Failing to connect historical wig-wearing traditions (e.g., Egyptian, Georgian) to today’s medical and cosmetic wig industries, leading to a narrow view of the craft’s relevance.
- Misconception: All wigs are made from real human hair. Correction: While human hair is used for high-end wigs, synthetic fibres are common for cost-effective and low-maintenance options. The course covers both, and students learn to select the appropriate hair type based on client needs and budget.
- Misconception: Wig making is just about knotting hair onto a cap. Correction: Knotting is only one part of the process. Proper wig making requires precise measurement, foundation construction, and finishing skills. Neglecting any stage can result in an ill-fitting or unnatural-looking wig.
- Misconception: Once a wig is made, it requires no maintenance. Correction: Wigs need regular cleaning, conditioning, and restyling to maintain their appearance. Students learn to advise clients on aftercare, including washing techniques and storage to prolong the wig's life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Pass / Merit / Distinction Evidence Checklist
How your portfolio evidence is graded for VTCT SKILLS The history of the postiche
Every vocational unit is marked against named criteria rather than an exam percentage. Your tutor's brief lists the exact codes for this unit — here is what each band is asking you to do.
Demonstrate baseline knowledge, accurate terminology, and core practical application.
Provide detailed analysis, structured explanations, and clear workplace reasoning.
Deliver thorough evaluation, original problem solving, and fully justified recommendations.
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •Basic hairdressing skills: Understanding of hair types, cutting, and styling techniques is beneficial but not mandatory. The course assumes no prior wig-making experience.
- •Manual dexterity: Wig making involves fine, repetitive hand movements. Students should be comfortable with detailed work and have good hand-eye coordination.
- •Knowledge of health and safety: Familiarity with basic salon hygiene and infection control procedures is helpful, as these are reinforced throughout the course.
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