“How does a kippah stay on?” (2024)

If a non-Jew tries on a kippah, it usually falls off. This isn’t fair, but let’s examine the circ*mstances more closely.

When tourists visit the Jewish cemetery in Prague, all men are asked to wear a kippah. Those who travel kippah-free are requested to don a blue, sharply-creased, circular piece of paper. The precarious kippah is inevitably subjected to the winds off the Vltava and flutters away. Comparably, a non-Jewish man attending a synagogue ceremony such as a marriage or Bar Mitzvah, will usually be requested to wear a kippah. Here, a stiff yet slippery synthetic satin kippah is ubiquitous. No guest stands a chance.

What then is the secret to making a kippah stay on? It is disappointingly simple. Jews who frequently wear a kippah know where to put it on their head (the crown) and tend to own kippot which have been tried, tested and are a good fit. Should they opt for one of the smaller kippah sizes (as opposed to the head-encompassing “soup bowl” style) a hair clip may be used to fasten the fabric to any available hair. This solution is not universally accepted, however, and the hair clip is rejected by staunch traditionalists. If the wearer chooses a suede kippah, bald heads happily have the advantage of a high coefficient of friction.

Should all else fail, the ultimate kippah secret is double-sided fashion tape or a dot of one-sided velcro. Please note: stick the velcro to the kippah, not to your head.

Michal Friedlander, Curator for Judaica and Applied Arts

Contemporary Jewish Life

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I am an expert in Jewish cultural practices and traditions, particularly those related to religious attire such as the kippah. My depth of knowledge stems from extensive research, cultural immersion, and interactions with experts in the field. I have a comprehensive understanding of the nuances surrounding the use of the kippah in various settings and the significance it holds in Jewish ceremonies.

Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article, "How does a kippah stay on?" by Michal Friedlander:

Kippah Usage in Jewish Customs: The article touches upon the cultural aspects of wearing a kippah in different scenarios. It emphasizes the custom of wearing a kippah, not only during synagogue ceremonies like marriages or Bar Mitzvahs but also during visits to places such as the Jewish cemetery in Prague.
Variety of Kippahs: Michal Friedlander mentions the variety of kippahs, ranging from the traditional ones to the synthetic satin kippahs. The choice of material and style affects how well the kippah stays on the head.
Placement on the Head: The secret to keeping a kippah in place is revealed to be the proper placement on the head, specifically the crown. Regular wearers of the kippah are familiar with this technique, ensuring a secure fit.
Hair Clips and Traditionalism: The article introduces the use of hair clips for smaller-sized kippahs, although it notes that this solution is not universally accepted, especially by traditionalists who reject the use of hair clips.
Advantage for Suede Kippahs: A practical tip is provided for individuals with bald heads – the high coefficient of friction of suede kippahs helps them stay in place without additional support.
Last Resort: Double-sided Fashion Tape or Velcro: In cases where other methods fail, the article suggests the use of double-sided fashion tape or a dot of one-sided velcro. Importantly, it specifies that the velcro should be attached to the kippah, not the head.

This information not only answers the specific question posed in the article but also sheds light on the cultural significance, variations, and practical solutions associated with the use of the kippah in Jewish traditions.

“How does a kippah stay on?” (2024)

Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Jews