Hat Blocks & Accessories for Milliners
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Choosing blocks

  

When ordering from us, there are a few things we need to know. However, if you're new to millinery and don't know where to start we have included some helpful tips here. We've also put together some block 'bundles' with all the hard work of choosing done for you. Click here to view the bundles.
     
Wood    
 
We offer blocks in West African obeche or North American tulip wood. Obeche is our most popular choice, as it is the easiest to push pins into, and will give a long life if handled with care. It is also lighter in weight, which has the advantage of lower shipping costs if you live overseas. For college use, or if you prefer a harder block, tulip wood is the choice. Our Multiblocks are available only in obeche. Five part blocks and hat stretchers are only available in tulip wood.
     
Form    
 

slim oval

broad oval

We use the term 'form' for the shape of either crowns or brims at the headband position. We offer three different forms; slim oval, broad oval and circular. Most milliners find that the slim oval form provides a good head fitting. The form of the headband on the brim should not be confused with the outline, which of course can be cut to any shape you wish.

Crown blocks can be made in any of the forms except where stated otherwise. The choice between the three forms is really one of aesthetics. Broad oval crown tips have a pleasant full shape, which is even more pronounced with the circular form. Slim oval provides the best head fitting and in any case, even when using broad oval crowns, they would normally be fittied to a slim oval brim in order to give a comfortable fit. As such, brims are almost always made in the slim oval form.

The choice is yours!
     
Size    
 
All sizes are available, from child to large adult, and can be made in inches or centimetres. The size of your block should correspond to the required head size, however, there are various techniques that allow you to increase or decrease the size of the hat you are making. Many customers choose the standard size of 22.5 inches (57cm) and work from there. For men's hats the most common size is 23 inches (59cm).
     
 
 
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