Make Victorian Doll Hats

Make a hat to match your doll's new dress.

During the reign of Queen Victoria, a lady never went out of the house without her hat. Complete your doll's Victorian-era costume with a matching handmade hat. Victorian hats were small and lavishly decorated, so it is easy to replicate them with wire and trim. Choose small trim and small millinery flowers to give your hat the proper proportions.

Things You'll Need

• Paper-wrapped floral wire
• 1/4-inch trim
• Needle
• Thread
• Artificial flowers
• 1/2-inch ribbon

Instructions

1. Make a circle of wire that will fit securely around the crown of the doll's head. Twist the ends of the wire together.

2. Add three arcs of wire above the circle, forming a domed "spider web" pattern. Twist the ends of these wires onto the circle. Try this hat frame on the doll to be sure it is the correct size. Tie the "web" together in the center with thread.

3. Sew trim around the brim of the hat, securing it at every intersection of wire so it does not droop down. Sew a second circle of trim above the first one. Sew the two pieces of trim together along their edges. Stitch the top edge of the trim to every wire around the hat frame.

4. Sew tiny sprays of artificial flowers to the top of the hat frame, covering the entire frame. Tuck the stems into the frame. Arrange the flowers so they point upward at several different angles, as they would grow naturally in a garden.

5. Tie a ribbon bow with streamers, and sew it to the back of the hat.

Tips & Warnings

• These proportions would be right for a 12-inch doll. Adjust the size of your trimmings for a doll that is significantly larger or smaller.

• Use velvet cord and feathers for a winter hat.

• You may add an elastic band to hold the hat on securely, or glue a bead onto a long, straight pin to make a hat pin.

References

• Victoriana Magazine: How to Make a Victorian Hat