Wire frame brims used to be quite common but are not as much these days. There are few who remember how to make them and that’s a shame because I think they lend themselves very well to Derby and Special Occasion millinery. While they appear delicate, they are actually quite strong and can be quite, quite large while still lightweight. They can be the star or just an airy base for your handmade flowers or feathers. Wire frame construction requires patience and accuracy. The frames can be covered with a single layer of beautiful lace and still visible as part of the design or a hidden support for layers of organza or drapes of chiffon. This is a technique meant for your high end customers.

In this class, we will develop a basic brim shape at about 18” in diameter and get the foundation techniques down. We will not make a crown. Students are encouraged to bring a cocktail hat or crown which is well blocked, stable and, if desired, fabric covered,  to set the brim onto. Student may want to line and headsize after attaching the brim. OR this hat can be finished  as a crownless hat.