Dear HatAcademy Milliners,

I am passionate about straw boaters and decided that as a hobby, I would like to start boater-making. What equipment would I need for such boater-making?

I am not sure what type sewing machine I need and is the operation of such a straw hat sewing machine the same way as a normal sewing machine? Would I need a hat steam press, cannot seem to locate one for sale. Also, how do I sew in a leather sweatband? 

P.S. If you listed the website/shop name where you buy your millinery supplies, it would be very helpful!

Sorry for the plethora of questions, I am an avid hat-lover but yet a mere beginner!