Trapper hats, also known as aviator hats or pilot hats, are a type of headgear designed to provide warmth and protection in cold weather. They typically feature ear flaps that can be secured under the chin or on top of the hat. Trapper hats are often made from materials like faux fur, fleece, wool, or leather to keep the wearer's head and ears warm in chilly conditions.
Here's a more detailed guide on making a trapper hat from scratch:
Materials needed:
- Main fabric (e.g., faux fur, fleece, wool, leather)
- Lining fabric (optional; can be the same or different material as the main fabric)
- Insulating material (e.g., batting) for added warmth (optional)
- Chin strap material (e.g., fabric strip, leather strap, or cord)
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
Instructions:
- Measure the Head Circumference: Measure the head's circumference where the hat will sit. Add some ease for a comfortable fit.
- Create a Pattern:
- Draw a rectangle on pattern paper or any large paper. The width should be half of the head circumference plus seam allowance. The height should be the desired hat height (usually a few inches above the ears) plus seam allowance. This will be the main body pattern.
- From the bottom corners of the rectangle, draw two triangular shapes on each side, extending downwards. The base of each triangle should be half the head circumference divided by two, plus seam allowance. The height should be the desired ear flap depth plus seam allowance. These will be the ear flap patterns.
- Add curved lines from the top corners of the main body pattern to the outer corners of the ear flap patterns to create the rounded shape of the hat. Make sure the curve is gentle and not too steep.
- Cut the Fabric: Using the pattern, cut two main body pieces from the main fabric and two from the lining fabric (if you choose to line the hat). Also, cut four ear flap pieces from the main fabric and four from the lining fabric.
- Optional: If you want additional warmth, cut two main body pieces and two ear flap pieces from the insulating material.
- Sew the Ear Flaps: With right sides facing, sew the main fabric ear flap pieces together along the curved edges. Repeat for the lining fabric (and insulating material, if applicable). Clip the curves and turn right side out.
- Attach the Ear Flaps: Align the ear flaps to the main body pieces (main fabric or insulating material) with right sides facing. Pin them in place and sew along the curved edges.
- Sew the Hat: Place the main fabric pieces (with attached ear flaps) together, right sides facing. Sew along the curved edges, leaving the bottom edge open.
- Optional: If using lining fabric, repeat the sewing process with the lining pieces, leaving a small opening for turning the hat right side out.
- Turn the Hat: Turn the hat right side out through the opening. If using lining fabric, tuck it inside the hat. Make sure the ear flaps are folded down.
- Attach the Chin Strap: Cut a strip of fabric, leather, or use a cord for the chin strap. Sew it to the bottom corners of the ear flaps, allowing it to be secured under the chin when wearing the hat.
- Finish the Hat: Make any final adjustments, and hand-stitch the opening shut if using a lining. Your trapper hat is now ready to keep you warm during the cold days!
Remember, you can always customize the trapper hat by adding trims, decorative elements, or adjusting the size and shape to your liking. Happy sewing!
