A Simply Chic Corded Hat for Fashion Dolls

An Easy DIY Project

Actress/Director Ivy Jordan wears a stylish tilted hat of her own creation.  This versatile hat features a corded base that can be trimmed in a variety of ways.

Here's what you will need to make this smart hat:

• Lightweight cardboard.  
• 1/8" wide Butcher's String.  You could also use yarn.
• Circle template.  
• Pencil.
• Scissors.
• Glue.  I used Elmer's Multi-Purpose Glue for this project.  
• Fabric for lining (Optional).
• Assorted trims.

Fig.1

Step 1:  Trace a circle onto cardboard and cut out.  A 2-1/2" diameter circle was used for Ivy's hat.  However you can make it any size you wish.  Cut a slit to the center of the circle as shown in Fig. 1 above.  Overlap 1/4" and glue in place.  Let it dry thoroughly.

Fig. 2

Step 2:  Apply a thin coat of glue to the top of the cardboard hat base.  I used a small paintbrush to apply the glue working a small section at a time.  Wind the string slowly into a spiral shape tucking the end under as shown on the right in Fig. 2 above.  Tip:  I found it easier to begin winding the string a couple rounds in my hand first, then center it on the base as shown above and continue winding until the base is covered.  To finish, glue the end underneath the base as shown on the left in Fig 2.  Let your hat dry thoroughly.

Fig.3

Step 3:  To line your hat, cut the same size circle out of cotton fabric and glue to the underside, darting it to fit as shown above in Fig 3.  I used Beacon's Fabri-Tac adhesive to attach the lining.  You are now ready to trim your hat as desired.

This stylish hat is also suitable for 1:6 scale size dolls such as Barbie.  A 2" diameter circle was used to make Barbie's chic tilt.  Jacket and scarf were borrowed from Buenos Aires Victoire Roux.  Gloves from Mattel.  Skirt and fur are from The Couture Touch.  Lingerie Silkstone Barbie is from Mattel.

Additional Credits:

Pearls and Pink Ivy Jordan is from Integrity.  Her "Smart Set" ensemble [Ashton Drake] is borrowed from her dear friend Miss Gene Marshall.