How to Use the Propeller Hat
Propeller hats, commonly known as "beaniecopters" are humorous fashion accessories invented in the 1940's by science fiction writer Ray Nelson. They soon became a fad among geeks as a sort of self-parody. Beanies were popular attire for schoolboys at the time, so these beanies alluded to the idea that many people thought sci-fi and comic book fans were immature. The propeller denoted an affinity for technology. Although the fad of propeller hats was short-lived, today sci-fi and technology enthusiasts are still sometimes called "propeller-heads," and the hats continue to be a comical symbol of old-school geeks. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Wearing a Propeller Hat
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Propeller hats make humor increase exponentially. Place the hat on your head. If there is a chin strap, make sure it is snug but not too restrictive.
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Practice twirling the propeller so that it can be done in effortless comedic timing during a conversation or while saying the punch line to a joke.
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Find a convention about your favorite hobby, comic book, television show, or any science fiction or comic convention that seems the most fun and interesting to you. There also are many conventions that host exhibitions on cutting edge science, gaming and technology if you prefer.
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Attend your chosen event while wearing your propeller hat with pride.
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Enjoy meeting new people who have interests in common with you. Share a chuckle with fans who are privy to the propeller hat's history and entertain younger attendees by letting them in on the gag. You will find your beanie to be an excellent conversation-starter.
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Tips & Warnings
Invite your friends to join you (with or without propeller hats) at the convention. If there isn't a convention in your town, you can wear your hat to your favorite comic shop or hobby store.
If there is a strong overhead fan in the building, stand directly underneath it so your propeller twirls on its own.
Since propeller hats are so unusual and purposefully funny, you will draw a lot of attention to yourself. Bring a friend along for encouragement if you feel overwhelmed.
References
Resources
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