What if the hat you’ve owned and cherished forever has faded and shrunk to the point that it is too small for your head now? Your family has bought you new hats and insisted you replace the old white one, but your beloved hat is hard to part with. You can’t say why. It seems to be part of your history and is more precious than a new hat could ever be.
Under these circumstances, I was asked if I would make a new hat as a surprise for this person. Uncertain of the possible outcome, I turned to Marie Kondo. A renowned tidying expert, Kondo has a philosophy and rules to simplify and organize your belongings. When it comes to sentimental items, she advises to keep the things that “spark joy”.
I thought, “Oh no, what a difficult task I have been given!” Nevertheless, with a positive attitude, I accepted photographs of the old bucket hat and a head measurement. I was able to purchase a piece of soft wash cotton denim. It will take time for sun-bleaching, laundering, and wearing to further soften and fade the fabric. I drafted pattern pieces for proper sizing and mimicked features of the treasured hat. I included the double-tiered side crown, belt-like band, belt loops, top stitching, and grommets.
I’m crossing my fingers that the new hat will find a spot in the owner’s heart. But I’ll also understand if he cannot let the old one go.
Hats by Tracy J 