Helen Tilley

Very large sinamay saucer with lots of handmade silk roses and biot feathers

Martina O'Neill

Hi Helen, Just started out learning millinery as a hobby (and to make my own creations for race days and weddings). I'm going to a racing festival at the end of the month and I want make a large saucer hat with shallow crown similar to this one. Any ideas what I could block it other that a wooden block? As I'm only making for myself I don't want to spend a fortune on blocks. Thanks

Helen Tilley

I bought a bamboo large dish from IKEA when I started and it has been invaluable, I have found you can block on any wooden bowls.

Martina O'Neill

Thanks Helen, would you believe I was actually looking at Ikea bowls today. Any ideas on how to carve the crown in while blocking the brim?

Helen Tilley

I made the brim and a very shallow crown separately (as you would make a hat). If you want to try it as a single piece try blocking and drying the brim then steaming a dent afterwards by hand

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