The Heirloom Process: How Your Hat Is Made, Start to Finish

The Heirloom Process

How Every Hat Comes to Life

At Heirloom Hats, every hat tells a story.

Rooted in traditional craftsmanship and elevated through thoughtful design, each piece begins with a spark of inspiration—whether it's drawn from nature, memory, or the quiet poetry of everyday life. My role as a milliner is to translate those fleeting feelings into something tangible: a hat that is timeless, personal, and full of soul.

It All Begins with Intention

The creative journey starts long before materials are gathered. I sketch, build mood boards, and let the story guide the silhouette and style. Every collection is approached with care, shaped by a desire to make meaningful, wearable art.

Materials that Matter

Sustainability is central to everything I do. I prioritize natural, biodegradable fibers and often incorporate vintage fabrics and trims. These details not only reduce waste but infuse each piece with history—connecting the past with the present.

Traditional Techniques, Modern Spirit

Each hat is shaped using the time-honoured technique of blocking—where felt or straw is steamed and molded over wooden hat blocks. This process requires patience and precision, allowing the material to naturally take on its form.

Once shaped, the hat is hand-sewn, wired, and lined. No shortcuts—just careful craftsmanship, layer by layer.

Thoughtful Finishing

From hand-dyed ribbons to vintage embellishments, every detail is added with intention. These finishing touches transform each hat into something truly unique—an heirloom in the making.

A Medium With a Heartbeat

Millinery is a quiet, fading art form. I see my work as a way of keeping this beautiful tradition alive—creating hats that feel soulful, slow, and made with care. In a world of fast fashion, an Heirloom Hat invites you to pause, connect, and wear your story with pride.

The Process

My friend and photographer Phil Bernard spent 3 days in the studio with me back in 2016 to document the making of one hat. The following is the result of those 3 days.