History of Panama Hats, Panama Hat Blocking
The Finishing of your Fine Hat

At this point, your straw hat has been in the weaving process for the last three to four months, and now you come along just in time as the hat is finishing!

Really though there is always a hat just finishing, so we can always find one that will meet your special size or preferences.

If it is something like an extra large brim then we simply have the weaver keep weaving until reaching your desired length. If it was an especially short brim we would simply stop him early!  Our standard Brim size is between 2.6" and 2.8" If this is fine for you then their is no need to specify a brim size at checkout. If you want a particularly large brim 3" or larger brim we will have to have it specially made for you, please visit our Panama Hats Brim Additions page, or Please ask for Details.

History of Panama Hats, - Blocking

This is the process which your hat gets your final preferences such as shape and size this is where we start on your hat after the weavers have worked hard waving your hat for several months.

The final shaping of these straw hats are done in the final blocking procedure, which is only started after you give me your specifications of Size, Style, and any other preferences you have. This Blocking and shaping takes a couple of days but usually within the week I can have any hat you need!

The standard Brim Size is between 2.6 to 2.8 inches, So if this is within your desired size then their is no extra charge in your straw hat! If you want 3" or larger brim it will take some time and will cost just a little extra.

The final Back weave on the brim is done buy a "Master Hatter" who specializes in just this process, your hat brim will never be cut folded and sewn in any manner as some cheaper hats are done.

The leather Interior Sweat band is hand made from high quality leather and is carefully hand stitched in to preserve the weave.

Each stage from the weaving to the final hand blocking and shaping is done buy different "Masters" each specializing in that a specific area. This Process of sending the hat from one hatter to the next is the best way to insure its finest finish.

Most hat shops in the united states do their own Final blocking, but here at Panama Hats Direct the very makers of the hats will be doing the final hand blocking and shaping of your fine panama hat, for an original and beautiful finish!