Step by step guide to making your very own top hat

[Cpt. Vanderstorme]

Not sure if i asked earlier, but, Where did you get the materials?

[Sam Watson]

I ordered the buckram online - I don't recall where, but if you Google "millinery buckram" you should come up with something.

The wire I got from my sister, who had it from previous millinery work, but you should be able to find that from the same sources as the buckram.

The fabric I purchased locally.

[Ned Devine has Awoken]

I just ordered the book you recommended....Going to try my hand at replicating the hat worn by the "Peelers" , early London Police..."tweekage" will be involved I know...love a challenge don't you know ... Already made my own regimental home service style helmet form to make the "shells" will post pics sometime...Good Job there Sir !!

[tylerkendo]

I am going to give it a try myself, never made one before but pretty excited about it.

[hardlec]

JoAnn and Hobby Lobby carry Buckram.  You may be able to find it at other full service fabric stores, but you will need to ask for help finding it.

Places like JoAnn will also have a selection of wire, 

This is a great project. 

[LadyAmaya]

Can anyone suggest a somewhere I can get a top-hat pattern, or instructions on how to draw my own? Thanks

[frances]

Hi, there are quite a few patterns if you google for them.  You can then choose from a small perched, asymmetrical shape, equestrian, stove pipe and so on.

[Rose Inverness]

This is the first hat I've ever made. I purchased my buckram online, and got enough to make lots of hats! I'm using the book From the Neck Up: An Illustrated Guide to Hatmaking, by Denise Dreher, and it is extremely descriptive.

Thanks tons for this recommendation!! I received this guide for Christmas and am on my way to haberdashery!