Rehairing

Rehairing is the process of replacing the hair on objects that use hair as part of their appearance or function. The term is most often applied in three contexts: musical instrument bows, historical or collectible dolls, and wigs or hairpieces. The goal is to restore the look, texture, and performance of the hair material.

In stringed instruments, rehairing refers to replacing horsehair on the bow. Over time, hair can wear, fray, or lose tension, affecting sound and playability. Rehairing typically involves removing the old hair, preparing fresh horsehair, attaching it to the frog and tip, and ensuring the correct length, alignment, and tension. It is usually performed by a trained luthier or bow technician, and the choice of hair thickness, color, and tension depends on the instrument and playing style.

In dolls, rehairing is a common restoration repair for antique or collectible dolls that originally wore mohair, human hair, or synthetic fibers. The process may involve removing damaged hair, preparing the scalp or head, and threading or knotting new hair strands in a specific pattern to match the original hairstyle. Doll rehairing aims to restore a natural look and even distribution, and it may require styling after the hair is secured.

In wigs and hairpieces, rehairing may refer to replacing worn or unsuitable hair fibers within a unit or to upgrading components of the wig system. The work is typically undertaken to improve appearance, durability, and ease of maintenance.

Maintenance frequency for rehairing depends on usage, hair type, and handling. Professional rehairing is common for bows and high-quality dolls. See also doll restoration, bow maintenance, and wig repair.