Diploma in Hat Making

Whats Covered

Welcome to your one-stop shop for learning everything there is to know about hat making! This comprehensive 8 module course will guide you from complete beginner to creating your own stylish hats.

Course Structure:

Materials List:

Before we begin, there are a few materials you'll need throughout the course. You can find most of these items at craft stores or online retailers.

• Millinery supplies: hat blocks, hat bodies, ribbon, trims, millinery needles, thimbles, millinery wire
• Sewing supplies: thread, scissors, pins, sewing needle
• Fabric scraps (optional)
• Straw or felt (optional, depending on the project)

Course Modules:

Module 1: Introduction to Millinery

• History of hats
• Different types of hats
• Millinery tools and materials overview
• Safety precautions

Module 2: Working with Hat Blocks

• Understanding hat block shapes and sizes
• Blocking techniques for felt and straw hats
• Shaping techniques with steam and water
• Creating custom hat shapes (optional)

Module 3: Sewing Techniques for Hats

• Basic hand sewing stitches used in millinery
• Attaching trims, ribbons, and embellishments
• Lining a hat
• Binding a hat brim

Module 4: Fascinator Fundamentals

• Introduction to fascinators and their history
• Different types of fascinator bases
• Creating simple fascinators using feathers, wire, and ribbon
• Millinery techniques for fascinators (curling feathers, manipulating wire)

Module 5: Embellishment Magic

• Exploring different hat embellishments (flowers, buttons, beads)
• Learning how to create your own fabric flowers
• Techniques for attaching embellishments securely
• Designing a cohesive look for your hat

Module 6: Beyond the Basics: Working with Fabric

• Choosing fabrics for hat making
• Constructing a fabric hat from scratch
• Techniques for gathering, ruching, and pleating fabric for hats
• Creating a structured fabric hat with buckram

Module 7: Dyeing and Painting Techniques

• Dyeing straw hats for a unique look
• Techniques for hand-painting hats
• Creating patterns and designs on your hat
• Safety tips for working with dyes and paints

Module 8: Hat Care and Maintenance

• Proper storage for your hats
• Cleaning techniques for different hat materials
• Repairing minor damages
• Showcasing and wearing your hat creations with confidence!