Ever looked at a straw hat and thought, “I could totally make that”? Well, you can. Don’t worry about workshop experiences, all you need is just a bit of time, a few tools, and some patience.
Let’s get into it.
What You’ll Need
- Straw braid
- Strong thread or thin wire
- Needle (large eye for straw braid)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Chalk or removable marker
Step 1: Start with the Spiral
Take the end of your straw braid and roll it into a tight spiral. This will be the very top of your hat—right at the crown. Secure it with a few hand stitches as you go. Use a needle and thread to start sewing from the center, flaring outward in a circle.
It’s a little fiddly at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s oddly satisfying. Like making a straw pancake that becomes a hat.
Step 2: Build the Crown
Keep coiling the straw and stitching it together. After a few rounds, start to cup it slightly upward—this is where your bowl or hat block comes in. Mold the braid around a bowl to give it shape. Steam can help it soften and form better, but you don’t have to use it.
Sew as you go. Stitch the braid edge to edge so it holds firm but stays flexible.
Step 3: Create the Brim
Once your crown is tall enough (around 4–5 inches is pretty standard), begin coiling out flat again. This is your brim. You can make it wide or narrow, floppy or sharp—it’s up to you. If you want French elegance, let the brim extend naturally downward; if you want American cowboy style, you can add a bit of cardboard sewn in to make the brim warp a bit.
Keep stitching the coils flat. Go slow. The wider the brim, the more it needs support from your threadwork.
Step 4: Steam, Shape, and Chill
When you’re done stitching, hold your hat over a steaming kettle or use a handheld steamer to help it set. You can leave it simple and rustic. Or, tie a ribbon around it. Maybe add a fabric lining if you’re feeling fancy.
Final Thought
Making a straw hat isn’t complicated—it just takes a bit of time and a few stitches. It’s like a slow afternoon project with a wearable reward at the end.
So if you’re looking for a low-stress craft that also blocks the sun, give this a try.