The artisanal craftsmanship of hat-making with a press is a true ode to the tradition and creativity of hatmaking. This ancestral technique, passed down from generation to generation, reveals the talent and skill of the artisans who master it with passion.
In France, only a few workshops are fortunate enough to own and use these pressing machines to shape their headgear. The use of these machines is very specific, and thus, only a few hatters are capable of producing their hats with such tools. This endangered know-how could be doomed to disappear if it is not passed on. At Courtois Paris, we are committed to sharing and training our artisans in this precious know-how!
THE PRESS PROCESS:
Press-making hats begins with the selection of quality materials. Wool felt, fine straw, and other natural materials are carefully chosen to ensure impeccable results. Each material has its own unique characteristics and secrets, and artisans know how to harness them to create unique hats of all kinds.
Once the material has been selected, the manufacturing process can begin. The material is first moistened to make it more flexible and malleable. To create the right moisture conditions, a steam machine is often used to allow the toughest materials to relax without breaking their fibers.
While the hatter molds his material on wooden forms, also called "molds," in the case of a press, the material is molded on aluminum forms. These molds are designed according to the specific style and dimensions of the hat to be made. The choice of mold will therefore depend on the shape of hat you wish to create!
The next step is crucial: the press.
The craftsmen first place the aluminum mold on the press system . The wet material is placed on the lower part of the heated press. This is where the magic happens. The heat and pressure applied by the press give the hat its final shape. The craftsmen pay careful attention to every detail, adjusting the pressure and duration of heat exposure to achieve the desired result.
DRYING AND FINISHING:
Once the hat comes off the press, it's time to perfect it. Craftsmen perform meticulous finishing and shaping by hand. They touch up the edges and let the hat dry, then add ornaments and details. The hat is either left to air dry or placed in a specialized oven to speed up the drying process. It will then be pampered, much like ironing, to ensure its shape is retained.
Finally, milliners add embellishments such as ribbons or lining, ensuring each element complements the hat's overall style. Craftspeople unleash their creativity by adding unique touches to each hat. They can play with shapes, colors, and textures to create original designs that reflect the wearer's identity and style.
The craft of hat-making is much more than just a craft. It's an art that requires patience, precision, and aesthetic sensitivity. Artisans perpetuate an ancestral heritage, preserving traditional techniques and manufacturing secrets that sometimes date back centuries.
Wearing a press-made hat is like treating yourself to a piece of history and craftsmanship . It's a testament to authenticity and quality, while adding a touch of style to your outfit. Each press-made hat is unique, a testament to the talent and passion of the artisans who bring this timeless accessory to life.
