Below are a few hats from my 2026 upcycles. Each hat is one of a kind because each hat is hand shaped, dyed and distressed. Although future hats might share names, they are never exactly the same. That would be impossible because I am a human...not a machine.
The Process
Each hat begins as a vintage cowboy hat. Some are Resistol, some Dynafelt, and occasionally I'll use a quality 100% wool hat. I remover the outer band, sweatband and liner, replacing the sweatbands with adjustable ones or simple Petersham ribbon, depending on size. If the original sweatband is in excellent condition, I leave it alone. I use steam to reshape the hat, and stiffener when needed. If the hat is light, I'll stain and dye it. I like to create unusual colors that appear different in every lighting situation.
To learn more about the process, click on The Transformation page.