Making a tricorn

[BillinOregon]

I have a heavy wool felt hat blank with simply low 4-inch crown and a very broad 4 3/4-inch straight brim. I am thinking of steaming it and bending up the brim to make a tricorn. Is there any particular formula of brim width to crown height for a tricorn? Any other suggestions before I start bending?
Thanks!

 

[Johnny Tremain]

Sew your brim boarder on first. Its real hard after its wavey.

Ive had two it the last 20 odd years. The first one was store bought. The one I made last year was made like Mel Gibsons in The Patriot. Sure was fun making it. Used boot laces to hold the sides up with.
If the wife had not lost my brand new camera, Id show you it.

 

[BillinOregon]

Good advice, Johnny. Did you add a cockade? They always looked a little foppish to me, but are traditional.

 

[gof]

it depends on what period you are after...

i am into 1690-1720....

more here[url] http://www.gentlemenoffortune.com[/url]/

 

[BillinOregon]

GOF: I am of course stunned by the variety of tricorn treatments. Had no idea ...


By the way, what sort of ribbon or tape would be proper to use on the brim of the tricorn? Cotton bias tape? Grosgrain?