No I don’t know the size. I’m sure that will be question number one tomorrow. I have a sizing tool so that will be answerable without any problem. I also usually avoid checkerboard liners. I try to buy 50s and earlier.
The great aspect of making your own stiffener is you get to decide on the strength. I have been experimenting using brim cuttings. Take a decent sized cutting and put the shellac on one half leaving the other half natural. Then you can see exactly what level of stiffening you have.....I have a sealed jar with shellac dissolved but a fairly strong concentration. I use the strong mixture in small doses to boost up the mixture I use on the hats. As well, it depends on how heavy a hand you use when applying it. I think it is an experiment in 'feel'.
I bought the SuperBlonde as it was the clearest I could get. I have used the premixed stiffener previously and when I mixed my flakes I tried to approximate that colour. The solution I used does have a slight yellow tinge to it....like really weak pee but even on a very light grey felt there is no colour residue. I use a 2" wide throwaway brush to apply.
I have used a pre mix that you can buy from a millinery supply store in Portland OR but it comes in a gallon jug. It has the slightly yellow tinge to it. I cannot remember where I read it but the Super Blonde is considered to be very close to the Clear.
