Come and join us for a weekend of experimental hat making, using upcycled and unusual materials facilitated by milliner and art activist Keng Keng. Let’s reimagine what hats can be – instead of hats being the preserve of the upper classes, together we will explore the role of headwear as a tool for protest, as a form of protection from the (Scottish) weather, and a medium for self-expression.
Over the weekend we will have fun and learn some basic millinery skills by using a range of upcycled and discarded conventional and unconventional millinery materials such as wool, felt, straw, sinamay, buckram, cotton, linen, silk, feathers, ribbons, beads, sequins and millinery wire.
You will learn a mix of traditional millinery techniques and also more experimental hat making methods:
- How to stiffen and steam
- How to block a shape by using hat blocks or found wooden objects
- Wiring and sculpting
- Deconstructing and remoulding
- Trimming and edging
- Millinery stitching and embroidery
- Sewing a flat pattern hat
You will also learn some experimental textile printing and mending techniques to add statements to your hat!
Finally, we will waterproof the hats by using natural waxing methods. You will have a finished hat or headpiece ready to wear to school or to work, on the street or in the wild!
No sewing or hat making experience needed and all beginners and those curious to learn more are welcome.
Open to all ages.
Bring old hats if you would like to experiment with deconstruction or restyling. A range of materials and equipment will be provided.
Choose to sign up to the full weekend or either the Saturday or Sunday. Attending for the full weekend will allow you more opportunity to explore different techniques. You might block a hat on day one and sew on day two! If you choose to come along for one day, you can either focus on one technique or have a taster of a few.
Snacks and drinks will be provided but please bring your own lunch.
Please note: Our ReMode studio is situated on the second floor and only accessible via stairs. If you have access requirements please leave a comment when booking your place and we can arrange for an alternative location. All sign-ups will be notified if there is a venue change.