Page [82]

 
"CUT-OUT" CROWNS 
   Ways to use old felt or straw crowns are 
numerous. "Cut-outs," such as those sug- 
gested in the illustrations are interesting 
and easy to do. A trim can be added to 
accent the cut-outs. 
   If a straw crown is used, all cut edges 
must be either bound or turned under,- 
otherwise they will fray and ravel. Gros- 
grain ribbon which has been doubled and 
circled (See Chapter 2) makes a good 
finish for a raw edge. It must be stretched 
on and then sewed by hand or by machine, 
A felt crown would not require the ribbon 
but it would improve the appearance of the 
hat to use it. 
  The same "cut-out" ideas may be used 
on blocked buckram crowns which you can 
make yourself (See Foundations Page 
64). Since these crowns are shallow, you 
can use the buckram directly on the block. 
Use a square of buckram about 12" x 12". 
Wet buckram and stretch on block, using 
bias front and back. If you are using the 
kind of buckram that is "double" (the 
type most commonly sold) be sure that 
the "cloth side" is the side that touches 
the block. 
  When crown is dry and removed from 
block, trim edges and make cut-outs as de- 
sired. (Try the crown on your own head 
to be sure that you are getting proper size 
and depth.) Crown edge and cut-outs 
must be wired before covering with ma- 
terial. Any land of dress materials may be 
used including cottons, ginghams, etc. 
This type of hat makes a particularly 
clever accompaniment to a summer en- 
Semble, as they are cool and lightweight; 
in felt, velvet or tweed they will highlight 
your fail and winter clothes. 
Hat No. 1 
t crown as indicated. 
bing (see tubing, Page 
h a long narrow strip I 
r plaid taffeta or use 
mdation of hat. Sew the 
around the edge of hat 
-out edge until crown is 
th a small bow. 
      Hat No. 2 
t crown of beanie or cal 
"ill in center with a coai 
6se more veiling as a rufl 
at, or snood at back of L