Name: Paper Braid Wide Saucer Hat by Melissa Rath Millinery
Brand: Melissa Rath Millinery
SKU: MRM-HS-PAB-PIN
Price: 450.00 AUD
Availability: InStock

"Craftsmanship at Its Finest: The Making of the Paper Braid Hat"

In this series, I’m excited to take you behind the scenes of one of my millinery creations—a beautifully intricate paper braid saucer hat. From the initial design concept to the final stitch, each step in this process is a blend of craftsmanship, creativity, and precision. In the photos that follow, you’ll get a closer look at how this unique piece came to life, showcasing the techniques and materials that make it truly one of a kind. Whether you’re a fellow maker or simply curious about the art of hat-making, I hope this visual journey inspires and informs. Let’s dive in!

The Materials

Traditionally braided hats are made from Swiss Straw Braid, which can be seen in a few pieces I've previously made including the Green Braided Millinery Beret and the Red Swiss Straw Braid Pillbox; however, this particular saucer hat was made from a paper version that I found in a discount store. The same material has been used in the Yellow Floating Boater Hat.

The Process

The first part of making this saucer hat included forming the shape over a wooden hat block, which is hiding under a layer of aluminium foil. I've started on the edge of the brim and worked my way towards the centre. As can be seen in the photo, the paper braid has been attached to the block temporarily with thumb tacks. This is done to make it easier for me to hand stitch the braid together.

This photo shows the finished brim, still attached to the block. A wooden crown block is sitting in the middle of the brim and the slight shine of the paper braid indicates that when this phot was taken, stiffener had already been applied to the brim.

Once the whole crown has been woven together, stiffener was applied to one side of the brim so that it maintained its shape while I hand sewed a millinery wire close to the edge of the brim. This picture shows a narrower pink braid being hand sewn over the top of the wire.

This photo shows the brim completely woven together and the finishing stage of attaching the narrow pink braid. After the narrow braid is neatly finished, more stiffener was applied to protect the paper braid and also to add strength to the brim.

One of the final steps in making this hat includes attaching a satin lining to the crown for comfort and longevity. In this photo, I've pinned the satin inside the crown and part of it has already been hand stitched in place.

As can be seen from the photos, I didn't take photos of every step, but the steps to making this piece are time intensive as each stitch is made by hand, except for the stunning pink bow trim, which was stitched using a sewing machine. The end results of this process though, is a stunning saucer hat and for me, I got to extend my skills.

If you're interested in learning to make braided hats, I learned to weave the braid together through www.hatacademy.com