Advice on reblocking a hat

[eliphant]

I am in the process of blocking this pre-1983 stetson over a homemade 3D printed block. I attempted it and everything went pretty well except the sides did not pull down well over the side of the block as it's a long oval most of the string tension was on the front and back of the block. Not really having any experience with the next stages I am wondering if I should try again. I am thinking of making a clamping plate to pull it down rather then trying the string with a hatters knot. I am looking for any suggestions or thoughts.

 

[HatsBySam]

At this stage after the crown blocking, I use steam and the edge of my iron to create a sharp brim break.

 

[HatsBySam]

That’s assuming your block is steam tolerant.

 

[eliphant]

That’s assuming your block is steam tolerant.

Yes, it's plastic and melting temperature is >300F. It worked pretty well and it's base shape is my head shape smoothed plus 2 cm in circumstance to account for the sweatband and final sizing.

 

[belfastboy]

Yes, it's plastic and melting temperature is >300F. It worked pretty well and it's base shape is my head shape smoothed plus 2 cm in circumstance to account for the sweatband and final sizing.

Are you trying to take the felt past the original brim break? If so, that is difficult as you are trying to take a horizontal surface and change it into a vertical one. Perhaps accept it as it is and the crown will be 1/8" shorter. You can then cut a band block, 1 1/2" to replace the full block so you have an even surface to set the new brim break in place...with the tollicker. You will likely find that changing the hat from a regular oval to a long oval the brim width will no longer by symmetrical but is likely now shorter on the front and back brim than the brim's sides.