Ask Lemmy

I'm usually the diy sort, sometimes when it's not even worth it economically just because I enjoy the satisfaction and experience. I admit that I've never fit a hat before, but given this one's history I have to agree with the other commenters: If this hat really is that special to you, take it to a pro. You don't want the guilt of accidently destroying something that valuable to you and your family.

If you must do this yourself, find some old shitty hats that you don't give a fuck about to practice on first, and research the hell out of it, learn and experience everything you can before you even touch that hat

How much of a stretch? With steam you might be able to add a few(!) centimeters to the hat size, but no miracles. Overstretching will rip it.

This is a job for professionals with the right equipment, BTW.

Have you considered changing the size of your head with experimental surgery?

Professionals use lots of steam and a specialized machine. Don’t ruin it with a DIY job.

Take it to a western wear store that has a hat section. One of the guys there would probably do it for the story

Go to your local gun show, rodeo, or any expo/convention/event where rednecks congregate. I guarantee you'll find a vendor selling hats who is willing to adjust yours for a fee. As others have pointed out, you need a specialized machine and a shitload of steam.

Have a chat with your local milliner (hat maker). They should have the skill and equipment to stretch it safely. Eg, Liza Steadman if you're in Victoria Australia.

Maybe take it to a pro, I wouldn't trust myself to do it 😅

Reduce size of head.

I imagine (as in I'm not sure) that if you try to do it yourself you might tear it around the area where it looks like some dirt has soaked in and provided a foothold for mould to grow from. I suspect that area is very fragile rn.

Personally, given it's age, I would ask for advice from a museum on the best ways to clean and care for it and ask them if it's possible for it to be reshaped to fit you.

I think they use steam but I would take it to a professional.

Take it to Cavender’s or somewhere similar and see if they can stretch it for you. l

Slowly. They make hat stretchers. Probably want to make sure the material is well hydrated. I’d do it carefully over several weeks or months, maybe misting it with some water.

There's hat stretchers you can buy online. That, in combination with heat will get it on your head.

Steam.