THE HAIR VENTILATING NEEDLE
The hair ventilating needle (also known as a “knotting hook”) is the #1 tool used by professional wig-makers to design wigs. They perform the function of adding individual strands of hair into mesh foundation or net, but can be easily used with different techniques.
SIZE AND NEEDLE TYPE
Each ventilating needle will come in a variety of sizes ranging from size 1-2 to 5-6. The sizes describe how many strands of hair the needle will hold at one time. For example, needle size 1-2 will only pull 1-2 strands of hair at a time.
Two types of needles may be chosen in addition to the size. An “S” needle is for ventilation into skin or PU materials. An “N” needle is designed for ventilation through mesh or lace net foundations (See Here)
When selecting your needle, you must choose the size and type. For example, an N1-2 needle is described as a wig-making needle that will ventilate 1-2 strands of hair into swiss lace/Net/mesh
THE NEEDLE HOLDER
A hair ventilating needle cannot be used alone. You must purchase a needle holder. Most professionals tend to use the brass hair ventilation needle holders, but the holders can also come with plastic or wooden handles. The holders with plastic or wooden handles are normally the more inexpensive and less quality selections.
TYPES OF NEEDLES:
GERMAN NEEDLE
The German needle can be 1 – 1.5 inches in length. This needle is great for hair ventilation using the French Method or creating double knots.
ASIAN (KOREAN) NEEDLE
The Asian ventilating needle can be an inch in length and is most commonly used with the standard hair ventilation techniques. Standard techniques include single knots, double knots and split knots. Creating double knots is possible, but tends to be easier when using the German needle.
Asian needles are also great for adding baby hair to wigs. Baby hair gives lace wigs a more natural look.
WHICH TOOL IS BEST?
It depends on your skill level and what type of knots you plan to create when making your wig. Always work with the tool that you are most comfortable using, but become familiar with other wig-making tools as well.
