Well, without going into details, I FINALLY got my hands on a Penman of my own!
Well, right off the bat, even though I know John is using the same felt as Fedora, the felt actually feels softer to the touch, and seems to be more supple, if that's possible. It must be from one of those tight felted batches that Fedora talks about.
The fit is great. It will be even better when I get my hair cut (I've kind of gone to seed lately. (grins), but even so, it's as comfortable a hat as I've put on my head!
The sewing is immaculate. Just perfect. I especially like the liner. The sweat is also soft. I'm assuming he treated this with rain treatment, as I've read that's a standard practice for his hats before they go out the door.
The ribbon work looks great. I can't say a thing bad about it. Nothing.
My wife REALLY likes it, as it reminds her of the hat her grandfather used to wear. It will have it's first 'outing' tomorrow as my go to work hat. Should look nice worn in the Plymouth.
I REALLY like that brochure he included too. Anything you want to know about a Penman hat, or anything else regarding hat care for that matter, seems to be included. I haven't read it all yet, but that's my next thing I plan to do after writing this review.
So, what else can I say? I love this hat. It's like nothing I've had since the 1970's, and that one was a hand me down from my Dad from the 1940's. It's not a Mallory or Marathon (my Dad's hats) but it's darn close! It's a style that I haven't worn in literally decades, and it's a nice change.
WELL done! An example from a true master craftsman. I can see why Dave raves so much about his Penmans.
HIGH Regards, John!!
Michaelson
![Michaelson :M:](./images/smilies/Michaelson.gif)