Bash or Block

I'm a little confused about a hat's shape. I know the general shape/taper etc. is a result of the block. But, the highly defined creases, pinches and what not - are these things also a result of the block or the bash?

On another topic - does anybody know how a good quality sweat is manufactured? Is it cowhide? Is it full grained?

Finally, does Art do trolleys?

Thanks All.

m

Fairly informed reply

Hi clevispin,

As I understand the hat shaping stuff, bash is usually the term chosen when one creases and shapes the hat by hand. Normally, this is done from an open crown (round dome), but softer hats with a shape can be reshaped by hand as well. The open crown is a basic "block," but most modern hats are pre-shaped before purchase. These are also blocked, where the creases and pinch are incorporated with the mold that determines the taper.

If THINK Art will do a trolley. Find one of his postings and click on his name to get the option of a Personal Message. He'll get back to you pretty quickly.

As for sweatbands... I'm clueless.

Hope I've been a little helpful.

Hats are blocked on, well, blocks, which are carved wooden shapes that the crown of the hat absorbs. Bashes are what you put in on your own. Most hats from the 40s were hand-bashed. As for sweatbands, I recently bought a hat with a suede sweatband, and I'm a convert! It's comfy as heck.