This type of hat really is all about the construction, since it is made from fabric pieces sewn together. It is not mouldable the way a felt hat would be made using a hat block, and to get a good shape is sometimes a feat of engineering.
Thankfully I enjoy a challenge and recorded the construction process of a hat which was a recent commission for a wedding.
The first bit – making up the crown and brim parts separately
The bit where you need an eagle eye – the top stitching
The satisfying bit – where you have a crisp edge and nice firm brim
The very tricky bit – top stitching the crown without the needle slipping
The ‘I can’t wait to see it all together’ bit – attaching the brim to the crown
The neatening bit – covering up the raw edges
The fun bit – adding some vintage braid for embellishment
The finishing bit – made by me
The happy with the result bit. Now what’s next?
Rosie Moore Textiles 