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 Hat Basics You Need To Know

Hat Sizes

It is important to understand that hats are made in different sizes if you want to find the correct hat size for you. When you are shopping for hats, you will probably find that inexpensive hats usually are categorized as small, medium, and large, and in some cases extra large. If the hat is more expensive, the hat will have an even stricter fitting. These hats are usually made to fit specific head sizes. The hat sizes for these types of hats are displayed as a number that reflects the distance around the head.

Hat sizes are figured somewhat differently in the United States and in the United Kingdom. If you purchase a hat in the UK, you will want to remember that usually the hats purchased there are actually 1/8 smaller than they are in the United States.

Although some people think they can stretch a hat out that is too small, this is not a great idea. Some hats may be able to be stretched, but you are better off finding a hat the fits your head properly.

Hat Shapes

Hat shapes are very important as well; in fact, the shape is as important as the size of the hat. Heads come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some have bumps and lumps. A special tool, called a conformateur, can help people to a hat the fits them perfectly. Some people have hats that are very round, while others have oval shaped heads. You can find hats in a variety of different shapes to accommodate almost any shape of a head.

Different Parts of a Hat

If you want to purchase a hat that is custom made, you will want to be sure that you are familiar with the different parts of a hat. This will allow you to communicate what you want in a more knowledgeable way. First of all you need to understand that the part of the head that covers the top of your head is called the crown. The stiff material that you find at the bottom of the crown around the entire hat is called the The part inside of the hat is called a sweatband, and it touches the top of your head. The hatband is either a string, ribbon, or leather strip that is at the intersection of the brim and crown and it helps to keep the hat the same size.

Maintaining a Hat

Keeping a hat clean and fresh is important, but wear and tear does occur and it is important that you know how to maintain your hat. You need to be sure that you clean and store you hat appropriately. hats may be made of materials that will require a different approach than others. While some hats may be washable, there are others that are dry clean only.

If you have a leather hat, you will have to use a special cleaner to clean it. Straw hats can be cleaned with a mild detergent and some water. Soft felt hats may brushed and wiped with a damp towel. If you want to keep the brim of your hat looking great, you need to store your hat upside down. Also you need to remember that good hats may shrink a bit over time, so you may need to occasionally stretch them.