Question for Hatters re bashing/blocking a Stetson straw hat

PaulData · Post by **PaulData** » Wed Feb 22, 2006 4:57 am

I have a vintage (60s?) Stetson Road Runner straw Cowboy hat, reeded sweatband, unlined. It's a really nice hat, but I was thinking of rolling the brim up somewhat at the sides, and curving down the front and back. My question is: would I use steam on this straw hat in the same manner as on a felt one? Any advice will be appreciated!
-PD

Oklahoma Jones · Post by **Oklahoma Jones** » Wed Feb 22, 2006 8:23 am

Yes, you can use steam to reblock a straw hat..........in fact, I would insist that you use steam, because you can crack the brim if you do it dry. It won't take much steam to moisten and soften the brim, and then you can shape away

I have done this a few times with an old stetson panama hat I have, as well as a couple of old straw cowboy hats with no problem.