(Newswire.net — October 20, 2021) — Grass or straw helped in making straw hats in the Victorian era. Bleached and braided, these hats give a natural look to the wearer. Straw braided hats, which people call straw hats, are nothing but straw plaiting that offers a natural look. These straw hats are sewn together for making the headwear. Ever since the 18th century, straw braided hats have remained in fashion over time. They have stood the test of time but have not lost their significance. They have tried to amalgamate the requirements of society and made an impression on the fashion market. But do you know that making straw hats from scratch is easy? Yes, with DIY techniques and guidance, you can make straw hats at home.
History of headwear
The art of making straw hats from grass comes from the Victorian era. Leaves of the palm tree were used extensively for making this headwear. Hence, they remained an accessory for high-class individuals. Straw braiding is an old-time art practiced by human beings. You will find various types of hats in different locations of the western world. These specimens show evidence of straw braided hats. In earlier times, there was a system in the use of natural leaves for making this headwear. Ever since then, the construction of straw hats has come a long way. In modern times, you might use other materials to create attractive and durable straw hats.
Victorian straw hats
Most laborers make their headwear for self-protection in the summer season. Straw is more durable than any other material available naturally. They are not only beautiful, but you can use them extensively. The laborers understand the art of making straw hats with leaves and grasses. Moreover, the skill gets passed down from one generation to the other. They have developed this artwork over time. It is a part of their family tradition.
Which straw hat must you use?
Since the Victorian era, rye and wheat, and grass got used extensively to make straw hats. It is because the grass was cheap while grain was superior. It was pliable and had a natural color. In recent times, straw has been used extensively for making the hat, but people also use other materials. The material differs from one manufacturer to another; people use natural fiber to make straw fedora hat womens. However, straw remains the typical option. When deciding on which straw hat you must go for, you will have to understand the material, manufacturer, size of the brim, and crown.
Thrashed and hand-cut straw
For making straw braids, laborers use straw that is unthrashed. No machinery is necessary for thrashing the wheat or the straw. In case the straw is broken, it is not suitable for the manufacturer. Hence, thrashed and hand-cut straws are ideal for making straw hats.
Which part must you use?
When deciding on which part of straw you must use for your hat, it is the stock. The piece just above the top joint is ideal for making these hats. Specifically, the part between the seed branches and the upper joint becomes ideal for use. After taking this part, you will have to rest in the sun. Before initiating the process, ensure that the straw is dry. However, you will have to cut the entire plant and then bleach it. You have to separate the parts after the process of bleaching is complete.
Bleaching straw naturally
Natural bleaching of straw is done by tying up the grass or straw in a bundle and putting it in a tub of boiling water. Keep it under the sun for at least 24 hours and then turn them. Please keep it in that state for the next ten minutes and then spread it out. Lay them in a straight row and then unite them when they are dry. If you sundry them, there is no better option.
Along with the natural bleaching of the straw, people use chemicals for the process. These chemicals differ from one manufacturer to the other. For bleaching the straw, they use a mixture of hot water, soap, and added sugar. Along with this, other chemicals also become added to prepare the solution. After the bleaching of the straw, you may do blueing. For gaining attractive results, patience becomes mandatory.
Every stage is significant for making a high-quality straw hat. You will have to dye the straw and then bleach it very carefully. Whether you go with split straw or whole straw, the bleaching process is vital. When braiding the straw, you will have to join the straws very carefully. There are different types of grading depending on the nature of the straw.
Following this, proper assembling of vital parts is of paramount importance. After this, your hat is ready. If you follow the process carefully, you can make a good piece for your hat collection.