Dictionary

Buckram: A sticky cotton weave that is used for hat bases.

 

Crinoline: Horsehair ribbon. It’s no longer made out of real horse hair, but a synthetic material. Crinoline is used for decorations.

 

Dior net: A net-like material mostly used as base in turbans and transparent hats.


Draping: When you shape a material on free hand.

 

Felt: There are wool felt (from sheep) and fur felt (from rabbits). In the millinery world, fur felt is most commonly used.

 

Grosgrain/Petersham: A cotton ribbon used for headbands, around edges, and decorations.

 

Headband: A band inside the hat to set the size and protect from dirt and makeup.

 

Millinery wire: A wire covered in thread. Used as base or for stabilization.

 

Pelmet buckram: Sticky burlap, mostly used as base. It becomes very hard when dry.

 

Piano wire: Is used to stabilize round brims.

 

Sinamay: A hemp fiber that is in the same category as straw. Usually used in bridal or party hats.

 

Straw: The most common kinds of straw are parasissol, sissol, and bao- Parasissol is the most common, sissol is very similar but is weaved in a different way. Bao is a little rougher straw.

 

Straw braid: A braid made of straw, sold by the yard.

 

Veil: A thin net-like material used for decoration. It is usually draped over the face.