Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Commentaries and Notes

I'm generally a Dobbs (which dates back to the 1930s) or Borsolino (established in 1857) kind of (hat) guy. but recently while attending the MRket mens fashion trade show in New York, I was introduced to Makins Hats (established in 1974).

A few days ago, I had the pleasure of having a private tour of the Makins Hats factory, and learning the science behind the art of hand made hats from 2nd generation hatter Cody S. Campbell. What struck me about this young gentleman was his knowledge, and appreciation of hat making, and his respect of 'the family business'. In a time and space where it's about immediate this, fast that, instant the other, the art of (insert any topic here) has been lost. Cody is making sure hat making doesn't become one of those lost arts.

I often receive e-mails (which I am humbled) asking about suggestions on products in general. I wont endorse a product unless I feel strongly about it - having said that, I will say that I left with 2 Stingy brim fedoras from Makins Hats... and plan on adding more in the near future to my collection.

I spoke to Cody about possibly opening the door to a few Swagger 360 followers. Please feel free to contact me via e-mail if you're looking to add quality hat to your collection.

Makins Hats has a men, women, and church line.

The hat process.


The body comes from the country where the raw material is produced. It has no distinct shape.


The block is selected. Here the hat maker decides on the shape of the hat.


Sometimes up to 5 pieces are needed to shape the hat.


The 'body' is placed on block.


Material is secured on block This starts the shaping process.


Steam is applied and the shape is defined. Hat then goes into the oven and is baked.


After the baking process, all excess material is eliminated.


The sweat band is sewn in.


The ribbon/bow is created.



All details are added.


The hat is then brushed.


Steam is applied to finalize the shape.



The product awaits final inspection.


Mother and son - Makins Hats Ltd.

5 comments:

  1. great post!I will look them up.
    T.K.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I carried Makins hats in our hat shop Les Chapeaux in Denver in the 80's. How exciting to see "Mother and Son" on your blog. Mother and son were here in Denver for a trunk show! Loved you post!

    ReplyDelete
  3. After reading your article, I decided to support good old fashion American hat making. Great find.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Love your blog. thanks for the diversity. A true gentleman.

    ReplyDelete

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