History of Panama Hats, Panama Hat Blocking
The Finishing of your Fine Hat
At this point, your straw hat has been in the weaving process for the last
three to four months, and now you come along just in time as the hat is
finishing!
Really though there is always a hat just finishing, so we can always find
one that will meet your special size or preferences.
If it is something like an extra large brim then we simply have the weaver
keep weaving until reaching your desired length. If it was an especially
short brim we would simply stop him early! Our standard Brim size is
between 2.6" and 2.8" If this is fine for you then their is no need to
specify a brim size at checkout. If you want a particularly large brim 3"
or larger brim we will have to have it specially made for you, please
visit our Panama Hats Brim Additions page, or Please ask for Details.
History of Panama Hats, - Blocking
This is the process which your hat gets your final preferences such as
shape and size this is where we start on your hat after the weavers have
worked hard waving your hat for several months.
The final shaping of these straw hats are done in the final blocking
procedure, which is only started after you give me your specifications of
Size, Style, and any other preferences you have. This Blocking and shaping
takes a couple of days but usually within the week I can have any hat you
need!
The standard Brim Size is between 2 1/2 to 2 7/8 inches, So if this is
within your desired size then their is no extra charge in your straw hat!
If you want 3" or larger brim it will take some time and will cost just a
little extra.

The final Back weave on the brim is done buy a "Master Hatter" who
specializes in just this process, your hat brim will never be cut folded
and sewn in any manner as some cheaper hats are done.
The leather Interior Sweat band is hand made from high quality leather and
is carefully hand stitched in to preserve the weave.
Each stage from the weaving to the final hand blocking and shaping is done
buy different "Masters" each specializing in that a specific area. This
Process of sending the hat from one hatter to the next is the best way to
insure its finest finish.
Most hat shops in the united states do their own Final blocking, but here
at Panama Hats Direct the very makers of the hats will be doing the final
hand blocking and shaping of your fine panama hat, for an original and
beautiful finish! |