How to Sculpt a Graduated Form

A step-by-step to create this form.

To sculpt graduated form

1. Section the hair to divide large areas of hair for control. Depending on how the client will have their hair be worn, sectioning can be from the front hairline to nape, or an off-center parting to the nape.

2. Have the head in an upright position, if you are sculpting the nape the head can be tilted downwards slightly.

3. Any line from the celestial axis may be used. The partings used will be parallel to the intended form line when sculpting. Some of the most common partings can include horizontal, diagonal forward, and diagonal back.

4. The type of distribution that is used to sculpt graduated forms is perpendicular distribution. * If you use perpendicular distribution from diagonal partings will result in a small amount of graduation. It’s important to note that the steeper the angle of the parting the greater the amount of graduation. The amount of projection increases the amount of graduation.

5. The standard projection used for the graduated form is a 45* angle which is also known as medium projection. It is important to follow the line of inclination - this will determine the angle at which the graduation progresses in length. This line will create an angular shape to the hair, giving it the look of a graduated effect. With this technique, you will be able to visually see the ends of the hair stack upon each other.

6. When sculpting graduation forms from horizontal and diagonal partings, your finger/shear position will be parallel to the partings. The positions of your hands will be palm-to-palm.

7. Any design line may be used to create a graduated form. The design line can be stationary, mobile or even a combination of the two. If you use a stationary design line, this will create a more weighted lower graduation effect. Using a mobile design line will create more weight in the occipital area of the head. Using a combination of the two design lines can create a concentration of weight in a certain area while still giving the graduated effect. Be sure to cross-check for balance and accuracy within the designed form.

8. An additional step that can be done is softening the weighted area by using the notching technique on the hair. This will not only remove weight but, give more texture to the hair.

9. Once the sculpture is complete, begin to hair form the hair to the style of your choice!