Fur Felts

Cleaning

Any blemishes, creases can be eliminated through the application of steam.

A kettle is ideal for this purpose

Creases can be easily removed through direct contact with steam. Similarly slight blemishes can be eased away with both steam as well as the aid of a hat brush. The latter can be obtained from most hat shops.

Size

Fur felts do not tend to shrink, however in the event that the hat requires enlarging, the hat may be sent to any reputable hatter, who will place the hat on a stretcher until it reaches the required size. Most fur felts can be easily increased by one head size if not two.

Shape

If you are unhappy with the shape of your hat, you will find that most hatters/milliners, offer a reblocking service.

Panamas

Panamas should be handled with great care to ensure maximum wear.

You should avoid exposing your hat to direct heat and sunlight as the excessive heat will remove all moisture from the fibres, causing your hat to crack. The current negative trend is to place your Panama in the back of the car. This is the worst place for a Panama. Find an alternative place if you wish your hat to last for more than one season.

Never pick your hat up by the crown, try and pick it up by the brim where possible as pinching of the crown will result in it cracking.

Ensure the hat has sufficient moisture to prevent any unnecessary cracking occurring, by spraying the hat periodically with water. A plant mister is an excellent tool for this purpose.

To clean any dirt marks, apply a lightly moistened cotton wool ball to the spot, rubbing gently.

Folding Panamas

When not in use and especially for travelling, these can be gently folded along the ridge and stored in an oval tube. Avoid storage for lengthy periods as this may damage the hat.

Tweeds

Tweed caps may be sent to a specialist dry cleaner for cleaning. Dry cleaning is not recommended for tweed hats, as this will cause the hat to lose its shape.

Remember hats are often works of art and should be cared for as such. Like anything in life, the more care shown, the greater and longer the reward.