Samantha Toney – USA

Bandida

Description

I’m a theatrical milliner turned Southwest custom hatter. I got into traditional fur-felt work because of it’s timelessness. Hatters continue to use the same tools and materials that they have been for centuries because they have withstood the test of time. I’ve done my fair share of millinery and enjoy the handwork that intricate pieces require, but I myself get my kicks now from blending the delicate and the brute to create hats that represent the personality of their wearer and also provide protection from the elements. A hat’s base nature to provide protection is, in my opinion, a great definer of timelessness. I create hats that will be with you for a lifetime. I chose for this piece to be simple in silhouette, but visually entertaining through color and feather-play. If it weren’t for the color and my model’s tattoos, I’m not sure one could pin-point the timeline in which this hat exists.

Materials

• Blue Cobalt Rabbit Fur Felt Capeline
• Black Hatter’s Grosgrain
• Foraged Rooster Tail Feather
• Roan Leather Sweatband w/ Reed and Joiner
• Black and Clear Sewing Thread
• Silk Lining

Techniques

• Open Crown Fur Felt Blocking
• Brim Ironing and Trimming
• Sanding/Finishing of Fur Surface
• Hand-Sewn Leather Sweatband
• Hand Creasing of Telescope Crown
• Brim-Flanging and Setting of Front/Back Dip
• Hand-Sewn Ribbon Trim and Ribbon Ties
• Hand-Sewn Floating Rooster Tail Feather
• Hand-Sewn Lining