Looking for a thin but extremely stiff and rigid steel wire that cannot easily be reshaped.

[Kaito3Designs]

Continuing the quest to make the most stage accurate Phantom of the Opera masks possible, I am in search of a super stiff and rigid steel wire that is also thin enough to be worn in hair. The mask maker for the Broadway production said he uses Spring Steel that is really hard to shape but is pretty vague. I've tried many types of wire but most are either too easy to bend, too wobbly, or too thick.

The mask maker for the Broadway was mainly a milliner and I have come across a few millinery sites that sell Spring Steel but I am unsure of how rigid they are.

If anyone knows what I need to search for any help would be appreciated

 

[Dogsbody2]

Try MIG welding wire or Stainless Steel TIG welding wire.

 

[lmgill]

Sounds like you are looking for "Piano wire". Welding wire will not be that stiff.

 

[TazMan2000]

RC hobby shops usually carry a selection as they are good for servos, landing gear, etc.

TazMan2000

 

[drusselmeyer]

RC hobby shops usually carry a selection as they are good for servos, landing gear, etc.

TazMan2000

Yes. In any well stocked hobby shop, you should be able to find a selection of music wire from K&S or similar company.

Be careful what you wish for though. Depending on the gauge, it can be extremely difficult to control when you bend it.

 

[nil13]

Spring steel isn't vague. It's pretty specific. It's the steel wire used to make springs and a google search for "spring steel wire" yields plenty of results.
Eta:the previously mentioned piano wire is made from spring steel wire

 

[drusselmeyer]

Also: Wear eye protection whenever you work with wire.

I can't emphasize this enough.

Spring type steel has a mind of its own and you need to protect yourself whenever you bend it or cut it.