Edit: The hat is finished! In the following posts, I will walk through, step by step, how I made this hat:
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_50.jpg&hash=6eace031b3f8b54359b43466b7869911a6c3309e)
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I've started making a top hat using traditional millinery methods.
Here I'm tracing the pattern onto buckram. I've given the inside of the brim a 5/8" hem so it can attach to the crown.
The buckram pattern, all cut out in three pieces: the sideband, the tip, and the brim.
Stitching the sideband together where the hem overlaps. I'm using a whipstitch, and I'll do this twice, once on each edge of the overlap.
All finished with the sideband.
Beginning to stitch the wire onto the edge of the tip.
The wire is held on with tape, but it's already been formed into the proper shape, and lashed at the ends to make a loop.
More to come!
Shiny! Can't wait to follow the progress.
A promising project, and one I'll follow with interest. :)
The completed tip, with the wire stitched to the outer edge. I actually had to redo this, because I forgot to account for the width of the wire in addition to the tip, and it wouldn't fit inside the sideband. I took out all the stitching and trimmed about 1/16" all around the tip before stitching the wire back in place. Now it fits.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_07.jpg&hash=0bee8dbbb0517887ff74c40c948564f17ae4b1da)
Whip stitching the tip to the sideband. The tip (now) fits just inside the inner diameter of the sideband, and when it's sewn in place it will form a smooth right angle.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_08.jpg&hash=d1ba7dd69cd584550883048fcefe68aa96630d57)
The crown assembled. A note about the theatrical buckram I'm using — it's in two layers: the rougher, sized buckram, and crinoline, a soft finer-weave fabric. In the hat, all outer surfaces will the the crinoline side, with the buckram side to the inside. This will allow me to cover the hat with fabric smoothly.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_09.jpg&hash=774ce63febdec462dcdcbb7dea95df517784f7d3)
A closeup of the seam between the tip and the sideband. Note that the wire is neatly between the two pieces of buckram, creating a smooth line as well as support for the fabric.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_10.jpg&hash=7a125c7c46133d2f5d84de0f879b23cc410fd59c)
A side view of the crown to show the curved bottom, which will create the signature curve of the top hat's brim. This shot makes it look like it's tapered to be larger at the top, but that's just because the bottom isn't perfectly in shape. This will be a straight stovepipe hat.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_11.jpg&hash=3a55dbc917ff217f1012ace0a4093ff44acdc4b5)
Beginning work on the brim. I'm sewing the wire onto the connection point between the brim and crown. I didn't feel like changing to a black thread in my sewing machine, so it's harder to see, but it's just a zig-zag stitch to hold the (preshaped and pre-connected) wire in place. I'm working with this piece crinoline side down, so that when the brim is curled up on the sides, those will have the smooth face showing.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_12.jpg&hash=df599c55590c451764eee7795b6fdd4bad09e641)
Stitching the wire onto the outer edge of the brim. Same deal as before.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_13.jpg&hash=4440ec789ba867106cd0da9493e9f356d269a9e7)
A closeup of the different sides of the buckram, so you can see the rough buckram vs. the smooth crinoline.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_14.jpg&hash=c01116cab436833d610bd63edf0608df8c50ca45)
I've clipped the inner seam allowance at the headband and folded the tabs up. This will be stitched to the crown once the frame is covered in fabric.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_15.jpg&hash=5e8493e249843d2246ace273fc5081ef7cc0c4c3)
I've taped the crown to the brim so I can form the brim the way I want. The two pieces are not permanently attached, and won't be until the frame is covered. I formed the brim by holding it over the tea kettle's steam until the buckram softened, and then holding it in place until it went rigid again. The wire rim helps keep the shape, but it's a little tight now that I've rolled the brim up. Maybe I should have shaped the brim first, and then wired it.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_16.jpg&hash=2677374e6343924b69c2257c836ff4ee41cbb415)
Ready to be covered in fabric. I need to go out and get that, so it'll be a few days before my next update.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_17.jpg&hash=441603f5b690290ddd550e53a8a565144a717f02)
very nice! I look forward to seeing the final product. Where did you obtain the pattern for the top hat?
I made it up. I figured out the size of the tip/crown opening from measuring my head, and worked from there. I have a big pad of newsprint from an art store that I use for hashing out all sorts of designs, from this to clothing to my gun holster. Once I had the pattern on paper I could transfer it to the buckram, and I'll use the paper pattern again for cutting out the fabric.
It is looking great, I am watching this with interest, I look forward to seeing it covered.
Making more bases of my own is my ambition for the new year :)
Are you an experienced hat maker? I am just curious because your work looks very confident and accurately rendered.
Actually what I really want to know is could someone with no experience of hat making make a successful topper? I would love to make one for my dear intended as he has an unusually large noggin that is exacerbated by humomgous thick dreadlocks and no hat we have found will go anywhere near fitting.
Also, where would a person find the materials used?
Sorry about the cross-examination. ;D
you can buy the material on ebay easily enough- you can make a trial hat our of card first before you try making a proper one.
Go on, give it a try!
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.
This is a great walkthrough. When it's finished, I say it should be stickied. I'm tempted to have a go at this one myself! My concern is in the covering. I'll see how you do that before jumping in as I have questions about that bit!
I seem to recall one of our other members did a tutorial about making leather top hats. The thing I notice abot your design is that It is very straight. cylindrical. If memory serves many top hats (including the one in your photo avatar) have a narrowed center. I'll see if I can track the tutorial down in case it helps you out with any tips.
edit: http://brassgoggles.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=21608.0 (http://brassgoggles.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=21608.0)
Oh, I know. This is a stovepipe hat, which is straight-sided, like the kind you traditionally see Abraham Lincoln wearing. It's also more typically what was worn a little earlier, in the Regency period. Since this is my first hat I wanted to try it a little simpler before attempting the tapered crown. I'll do that one next, have no fears.
A most fascinating endevour, pray tell, what material are you using to cover it?
An excellent result, and all the more impressive as it's your first. I'm looking forward to seeing your progress.
Quote from: Auditor of Reality on November 22, 2010, 09:43:19 PM
A most fascinating endevour, pray tell, what material are you using to cover it?
I haven't had a chance to get to the fabric store. I'll have to see what they have, but I'd love to get a brown pinstripe if it's available.
It's been a while since my last update. This is the second time that the forum's gone down when I'm ready to update, so maybe you can all blame it on me. :)
Anyway, here I'm adding mulling around the wire of the crown. This does two things: first of all, it smooths the line of the wire and makes a nice rounded edge. Second, since I decided to use a lighter fabric it will hide the black stitching. I'd originally thought of using black fabric so the black thread wouldn't have mattered. In the future I'll just use white thread, although the black worked nicely for this project so you could see my stitching.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_18.jpg&hash=7752704b73a06600e7510081fb6522fc1bffafd7)
Mulling on the outer edge of the brim. The mulling is just some spare fabric that I cut on the bias. I kind of wish I'd made it wider, since it would have been easier to sew the brim fabric onto the mulling later, instead of through the stiff buckram.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_19.jpg&hash=b9b60aa24bdc9e4c05391f303e88a42d42435097)
The fabric that I chose for the hat. This is the piece for the sideband, and at the bottom is the tip of the crown. I made sure to allow the pattern to line up at least in the center front.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_20.jpg&hash=e1741dba40e4aae3acf43eff375250a0ec26b61a)
The tip pinned in place. The chalk outline is just from when I traced the pattern onto the fabric. The fabric has been stretched as tightly as I can get it without distorting the wire or buckling the buckram frame.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_21.jpg&hash=3997350a36f080d8e1031ed29299bcc7c9160f06)
After stitching the tip in place I trimmed the excess material down to about a quarter inch.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_22.jpg&hash=2e6554bafb63e3caa7dde13b9d2bac1095168101)
Fitting the sideband in place to measure where to sew the back seam. After pinning it in place here I removed it from the frame, turned it inside out, and sewed down the rear to make a tube.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_23.jpg&hash=7a2c9de22f7bb61a58de4531b6cae8ea1778e224)
Here it is, sewn and in place on the frame again, ready for the next step. Normally, I would have cut this piece of fabric for the sideband on the bias so it would fit snugly, but since I wanted the stripes to be vertical instead of at a 45 degree angle, I just made it as tight as I could.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_24.jpg&hash=684b490493a291cd00fff3e855d256f3c6ab07e2)
Slip stitching the sideband to the tip. Notice how the first three stripes line up in the center front. I've folded the excess fabric at the top back on itself so it's folded between the outer fabric and the frame. It seems like it would be kind of bulky, but it doesn't show when it's finished.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_25.jpg&hash=c84f645752d14c47a980ad68d2ba8e2caf9ef119)
Finished attaching the sideband to the tip. The chalk marks will be brushed off soon. Now I just need to do something about the excess fabric at the bottom....
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_26.jpg&hash=413c3bf102884a2dc37543cf77f3f5c7ae250d39)
Using rubber cement I folded and glued the excess fabric over into the inside of the frame.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_27.jpg&hash=736fcb1d50443c14497644b8e2ff11f9b30ac410)
When it was dry I basted the fabric in place, just for extra security. Since I'll have a hatband, I don't need to worry too much about these stitches showing. Now the crown is finished, and in my next installment I'll work on the brim.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_28.jpg&hash=9a60cf034831f419caaf81406668f49a13c57707)
Fantastic work, Mr Watson!
It's clear, step-by-step tutorials like this that give us younger members the confidence to try things ourselves, keep it up!
Also, another vote for this being stickied!
Looking great, keep up the good work!
On to the brim!
After cutting out the piece of fabric for the bottom of the brim (the bottom in this case is the "right side" which, because of the upturn on the sides, has the most showing) I basted around the chalk line, just outside the wire at the headsize opening. This will allow me to stretch it toward the edges and not distort the opening.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_30.jpg&hash=7a9ee76fbf045bb12e21d2ff59a0c25afb03a877)
Now I can stretch the fabric, pinning it in place. Because of the roundness of the brim I will have to clip some darts in the fabric to allow it to lie flat.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_31.jpg&hash=7b63c4314d9f4decbcc9bb4ff18945db0f614556)
Sewing the fabric in place with a catch stitch. You can see the darts. I've cut them as close to the edge wire as I can without allowing them to show.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_32.jpg&hash=14614e5eddccdfd8769f646bac9cb37a5d56d36b)
For the top (the "wrong side") I need to glue the fabric to the portions of the frame which are concave, since otherwise it will pull off the frame when stretched. I need to clip the hem allowance at the headsize opening to allow it to fit over the already-clipped buckram frame.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_33.jpg&hash=60eeafe67d23934d79d6105fb0d7b241fbebb0c9)
Turning the hem under and pinning the wrong side in place.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_34.jpg&hash=5568387b3c36091b4d79572f7c3a6deaa81bc6d5)
Slip stitching the wrong side to the right side.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_35.jpg&hash=934bcbe8c91a3c5f9d2630b4248b922d4a21a0d0)
The completed brim. I could bind the outer edge with bias tape, but I'd like to leave the line the way it is.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_36.jpg&hash=f969733799d02efc174337161b8c443b1004331e)
The brim sitting on top of the crown, ready to be attached. The center backs and center fronts are lined up, and the stripes in the fabric match.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_37.jpg&hash=509490f65de618c67f87dd318602511448ed7e66)
Stab stitching all the tabs of the brim together to the crown with uneven basting. The larger stitches are on the inside, and the smaller on the outside.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_38.jpg&hash=3a19ef64ca2e0c03f12bfbf2724910e60ab2f979)
The smaller stitches on this side. It doesn't matter that the stitches show, since I'm adding a hatband later.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_39.jpg&hash=6b4305a86733b091c11b462ac615dfca4977ccb0)
Nearly there! The brim and the crown are connected, and at this point it's a perfectly-wearable hat. But I'm not done yet. Oh no, I'm not done yet....
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_40.jpg&hash=91cad6a2a28dd2005d8b069f3d37e5f87884f354)
Adding the hatband. After I took this photo I redid the stitching so it wasn't bunched up like it is here. I can sew through to the inside of the hat, because I'm going to add a lining next.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_41.jpg&hash=c7b79da0525c9f4b3b673eae80ae6c38244eeb37)
Pinning the lining together before I sew it. At last! Something I can sew on the sewing machine! Almost everything so far has been hand sewing, and it takes a long time. This is fabric that I rescued from the lining of a leather coat I've torn apart for leather.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_42.jpg&hash=81b5a1feee29618bd33a6db312d40e9ca5476655)
The lining pinned in place, the seam lined up with the center rear of the hat. There are two pleats, one on each side, to allow for a little extra fabric in the lining.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_43.jpg&hash=c7853bebd3af85f14cb07c690357231aa299bf11)
Slip stitching the lining just inside the edge of the hat. I don't want it showing from the outside.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_44.jpg&hash=9f574c00bb794d5826607f6980fd07ae0d4f7ddb)
The lining all sewn in place.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_45.jpg&hash=4c04e12bdff0eef52676fc6cdee1c524ea7c8e58)
Now for the inner head band. I don't have millinery grosgrain, so it isn't quite as flexible as it should be, but it'll do. I've measured the length I need, and am connecting the ends here.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_46.jpg&hash=27c9532be2e0f1c10ef10886da12bd3bab8b1fe9)
All connected, with the hem sewn open.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_47.jpg&hash=83eaac5be86daf485b20dd69712315d355662b7b)
Sewing the head band in place just above the lining, but still inside the hat.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_48.jpg&hash=387fdfbdbe8bb43dfaa6e1374cce2a7b8901981c)
Finished! This is the finished interior of the hat.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_49.jpg&hash=22694026ade38197dda98f41e6cdd6c9c620d867)
The finished hat.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_50.jpg&hash=6eace031b3f8b54359b43466b7869911a6c3309e)
I couldn't have done it without this book.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Ftophat%2Ftop_hat_51.jpg&hash=a35d93314743c645b7f7b6200c638536212ae277)
That's one nice hat!
And a nice thread too :)
We need more of the project diary/walkthrough type threads in Anatomical, they're so informative.
Thank you for such a well documented look at how to make a top hat! I also think that this needs to be stickied, so it doesn't get lost in the shuffle.
Excellent work!
absolutely sterling job! I'm inspired to look for that book and have a crack myself!
I'll be honest, the fabric covering isn't to my taste, but then it isn't on my head!
So, a career as a milliner for you?
Wow, that's very impressive!
I love that you provided pictures of every step as you went along. I'm not sure my skills are up to something like that yet, but it's very encouraging!
Your hat is a truely wonderful creation, congratualtions sir.
I tried looking up the book you mentioned and only came back with results around £45 on Amazon. Is it a rare book or am I looking for the wrong thing.
Another vote here for a sticky to be made of this thread. A most elegant piece of work, sir!
If you all want this sticky you don't have to vote all you have to do is ask. ;) And that is a lovey hat. I have been making some of my own but they are far simpler.
Quote from: Gharak on December 10, 2010, 11:16:09 PM
Your hat is a truely wonderful creation, congratualtions sir.
I tried looking up the book you mentioned and only came back with results around £45 on Amazon. Is it a rare book or am I looking for the wrong thing.
Unfortunately the book is on loan to me from my sister, so I don't know how much it costs or if it's even in print. Sorry.
It's a wonderful hat, and very good instructions. The covering is not what I would wear, but taste is taste.
Well done! Good job!
Here's mine (posted the picture somewhere else, but, hey your thread reminded me of it)
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i175/mothmothmoth/PICT0005.jpg[/img]](https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi72.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fi175%2Fmothmothmoth%2FPICT0005.jpg&hash=2a91a4466696cc6d4f898dcbb0c9e73f6135e091) (http://[img%20width=640%20height=480)
Next to it is the picture that inspired me to make it. I usually have a pair of flying goggles attached to it.
It was great fun to make...
You know, you might just have inspired me to make another!
That's nuts, Cubinoid! Love it! Just out of curiosity, but what is the right name for that style, anyone? It isn't just a topper, is it?
It wouldn't look totally out of place with a card sicking out of the hat band with "In This Style 10/6" written on it!
Quote from: Prof_Von_Grumbleflick on December 18, 2010, 04:06:16 AM
That's nuts, Cubinoid! Love it! Just out of curiosity, but what is the right name for that style, anyone? It isn't just a topper, is it?
It wouldn't look totally out of place with a card sicking out of the hat band with "In This Style 10/6" written on it!
Why thank you Professor! I've no idea what the style is called - but it is a fantastic look. Very intimidating!
For anyone needing a closer look at the original for identification purposes:
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi72.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fi175%2Fmothmothmoth%2FPICT0006.jpg&hash=c2e1a477a2f3869a28de6e5393a83bc06b59bdff)
Just from the very nice step by step pictures and description I am almost inspired to make my own. However I do not have the patience to actually do all the hand stitching you do. Yet still I am inspired even knowing I would never actually finish it unless I broke a leg or something. I love making things with my hands but sewing isn't one of the things I enjoy, But I am almost inspired to do it anyways. What I am getting at is that this is a very well done How-To thread I enjoyed reading it from beginning to end and enjoyed watching the progress. It is an inspiration to those who have thought about making their own and those who never thought they would want to.
(in reality I'm more the steamy tinkerer or mechanic or sky pirate than a Top hat wearing fancy, not that that's a bad thing, but I'm more inclined to tell someone to bugger off good heatedly than to say good day old chap. And that's the only reason I will force my self NOT to start on this.)
Quote from: Prof_Von_Grumbleflick on December 18, 2010, 04:06:16 AM
That's nuts, Cubinoid! Love it! Just out of curiosity, but what is the right name for that style, anyone? It isn't just a topper, is it?
It wouldn't look totally out of place with a card sicking out of the hat band with "In This Style 10/6" written on it!
That actually reminds me of a slightly exaggerated Empire or Wellington style topper (on which I believe the mad hatters was based). A rare hat indeed to find an original of. For some reason they make me think of Bill Sykes and bullseye, wonderfully thuggee hehe!
http://www.silktophats.eu/5159-empire-tophat (http://www.silktophats.eu/5159-empire-tophat)
Only just came across this thread, a most excellent hat and a most excellent guide.
Nice work!
TTFN
Gunner
Very good work indeed. Well done!
Most admirable and inspiring, thank you, Sir.
Quote from: Sam Watson on December 13, 2010, 12:12:03 AM
Quote from: Gharak on December 10, 2010, 11:16:09 PM
Your hat is a truely wonderful creation, congratualtions sir.
I tried looking up the book you mentioned and only came back with results around £45 on Amazon. Is it a rare book or am I looking for the wrong thing.
Unfortunately the book is on loan to me from my sister, so I don't know how much it costs or if it's even in print. Sorry.
Is this of any use to anyone?
A website for the book that Sam said he used. You can order the book from the site at USD $25 + $5 P&P.
http://www.hatbook.com/ (http://www.hatbook.com/)
:)
Bravo Sir.. Bravo
and what a great step by step...
I wont say i dont have the skill but i certainly do not have the patience and precision to complete a project to this quality.. very impressive sir..
Sam Watson, you have made a fine Chapeau indeed. Might one say you were...Mad as a hatter?
Quote from: Prof_Von_Grumbleflick on January 20, 2011, 04:13:58 AM
Quote from: Sam Watson on December 13, 2010, 12:12:03 AM
Quote from: Gharak on December 10, 2010, 11:16:09 PM
Your hat is a truely wonderful creation, congratualtions sir.
I tried looking up the book you mentioned and only came back with results around £45 on Amazon. Is it a rare book or am I looking for the wrong thing.
Unfortunately the book is on loan to me from my sister, so I don't know how much it costs or if it's even in print. Sorry.
Is this of any use to anyone?
A website for the book that Sam said he used. You can order the book from the site at USD $25 + $5 P&P.
http://www.hatbook.com/ (http://www.hatbook.com/)
:)
Oooh...tempted. Sorely tempted...
S-s-s-s-smokin'!!
OK, so I seriously just bought the book. Sam, you ought to also make a waistcoat with the same material. Now THAT would be smashing!
*dreams...*
Thank you for all your pictures, too. That was great!
Bow down! I love it! Fantastic worksman ship and sublime finish! Tophats are my favorite type of hat so i really do admire this! Nicely done!
I'm usually not partial to stripes on hats, but you may make a convert of me, sir! This is lovely work you have here. I applaud you. :D
Also, I agree with the Prof. Crayborne-- a matched waistcoat would look quite dashing.
I, also, wish to tip my hat to you sir. Fine work. Hand made almost always takes top shelf to mass produced and yours has upped the anty!
Hmm, I wasn't sold on the matched waistcoat at first, but the more I think of it, perhaps you're right. I'm definitely going to make a matched striped waistcoat to my wife's corset.
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.breecher.com%2Fbrassgoggles%2Fcorset1.jpg&hash=0431b49d027e2db2fde99f94303e29de07b8fc4b)
I've never seen a suit that matches the hat before.
Simply sterling job. I like the idea of matching waistcoat and corset.
Inspiring work.
What a wonderful hat! I am profoundly impressed by your imagination and skill.
Thanks for posting this, it gives us all a step-by-step guide should we wish to create our own.
Tell me, about how much were your expenses in creating the hat, from start to finish?
Total cost for this hat: about $6.
The buckram is the most expensive, and I bought a couple yards of it so it would last a long time. I only used a small portion of it, I'd say about $3 worth. I already had wire for the brim, fabric for mulling, fabric for the lining (which was the lining of an old leather jacket I bought from Goodwill so I could use the leather for other projects), rubber cement, and needles and thread. I bought half a yard of fabric from a discount fabric store near me, so that cost about $2. Then all I needed was some ribbon for the hatband and headband for another $1, and that's about it. The hat I made for my wife is a little more expensive, but that's just because I covered hers in silk. From the same discount fabric store. So it probably came to around $9 all told.
This is very tempting...another thing to add to the 'to-do' list for when i find employment!
It's very impressive, I have never attempted a hat before but I am thinking I may give it a go :-) x
That hat is great! I'm studying technical theatre and I took a hat making class last semester. We used the same book you did and made ours just like yours. It was a boater hat, so similar to yours, just a shorter band and a wider brim.
I got to tell ya though, making that thing by hand was hell. We used double thick buckram so at times we were sewing through 4 layers of that stuff. Materials we needed for the class included pliers to pull the needle out. We were not allowed to use a machine because, as our professor put it, she wasnt able to when she was younger, so we couldnt either :P While it was very hard to do, I really want to make a mini topper like yours! Great job ;D
Very nice work! ^^
The hat is OUTSTANDING
Your skills are very impressive, I'm amazed.
having said that I have to ask,
While wearing that hat, are you able to
grunt and squeak and squawk with the animals?
( put's silly stick down and RUNS....)
Ah! Dr. Dolittle. My childhood hero.
My good Mr. Watson, I congratulate you upon a handsome work of haberdashery. To add my thanks for your posts would be superfluous, but I nevertheless tip my hat to you.
Nautilus
Mr Watson,
Fantastic work sir! I will have to try my hand at this in the future, I look forward to seeing the vest that goes with it.
Inspiring results and an incredibly well presented tutorial. I shall be attempting one of my own very soon!
Thank you very much for tis tutorial- it is so deatailed and comprehensive that I feel I would be able to make a hat like yours without the book for instruction.
If I ever have time (maybe at Chrismas) I will purchase some buckram and have a go =]
Adding to the chorus of thanks for posting this: Thank you! A very inspiring tutorial, and a splendid hat. ◻]=)
cool hat im going to get that book sometime heres a link to it http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0941082008/ref=olp_tab_new?ie=UTF8&redirect=true&condition=new (http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0941082008/ref=olp_tab_new?ie=UTF8&redirect=true&condition=new)
I'm having a go at making one at the moment, mostly following this thread for instructions. So far so good... :)
Thanks again for posting this. It is wonderful to see it is inspiring others to have a go at making their own hats.
I thought I might post a better picture of the hat I made...
(https://brassgoggles.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi72.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fi175%2Fmothmothmoth%2Fhat.jpg&hash=02e55f6fe84175c4b7e94682f49f27599af22664)
Watson, Sir, that is a gorgeous hat! Splendid photos of the process, and I love your attention to detail!
My dear Sir,
Congratulations on a splendid hat indeed. I am so enamoured of your success that I would like to add this discussion a a link on my own 'how to make' hat page. Like this: http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/createthemood/HowToMake/1815%20riding%20hat/1815all.html (http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/createthemood/HowToMake/1815%20riding%20hat/1815all.html)
I wish you more and greater success in your costuming endeavours,
yours truly, your servant
An excellent tutorial, Sir! I would love to make one, but not sure if I have the skill.
Excellent job there!! I'm very inspired to try it on my own. I think I'll pick up a copy of that book next week!!
bRelent work I plan on making one I do wish to know how difficult was the process
Quote from: Pro. Millbore Grosling on August 02, 2012, 12:01:25 AM
bRelent work I plan on making one I do wish to know how difficult was the process
It's just sewing. I didn't find it difficult at all. Tedious and long? Sometimes, but not difficult. The second hat I made went together
much more quickly because I knew what I was doing.
Só much respect!
I'm gointto try make one myself! Although it'd be my 3rd tophat then, maybe it's time for variation
what wire did you use?
Awesome!!! I love the fabric choice and clarity of the photos. I think I'll be trying this method of hat-making.... Thank you for sharing it!
Not sure if i asked earlier, but, Where did you get the materials?
I ordered the buckram online - I don't recall where, but if you Google "millinery buckram" (https://www.google.com/#q=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.
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 !!
I am going to give it a try myself, never made one before but pretty excited about it.
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.
Can anyone suggest a somewhere I can get a top-hat pattern, or instructions on how to draw my own? Thanks
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.
Quote from: Sam Watson on November 22, 2010, 01:26:12 PM
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! :)