My hats are hand cut and shaped, so you can expect the imperfections of something made by hand. Most of the distressing is intentional, but you'll occasionally find moth holes, and stains that have become part of the design. They add to the character of the piece, rather than detract from it. Whereas someone else might toss a flawed old cowboy hat, I'll give it new life with some reshaping, dying and new insides!
Most get adjustable bands, so they can fit several sizes.
Take it out...it's not precious. These hats are still going strong, even though most are vintage. Sometimes, because of packing or sitting on uneven surfaces, hats can get out of shape. That's not an issue for me, because it can also add to the hat's character, but here are some tips to keep your hat's shape:
If anything is wonky, a dented crown, wobbly brim, these things are easily fixed with a little steam. For the crowns, you can usually just pop them out and they spring back into shape. For the brims, spray a little hairspray or just spritz with water a little, then take a thin piece of cloth and lay it on the brim. Iron over that, moving quickly around with the edge of the iron against the base of the crown.
Next, set the hat on a floor, counter or other flat surface with some weight on the brim (not directly on the felt-put a rag down first!). In an hour or so, the brim should be completely flat..or close to it.
For leather laces, or decorative elements that have loosened over time, take your fingers and gently roll them down to the base of the brim where they belong.
For feathers and porcupine quills, which I use a lot; there is usualla a stitch holding them onto the hat. IF you no longer want them on the hat, simply slip them forward and they'll slide out. You can easily subtitute alternative feathers by sliding them into the stitch on the side...or make your own stitch if you're crafty. These hats are not precious or delicate. They are made from the finest felts and are made to last.