Diane Harty

I stitch each and every hat myself, starting a strand of straw braid. I use an antique chainstitch sewing machine fitted with attachments made for this type of hatmaking. This is an old technique of hat construction that dates back to the 1800s. I add a contemporary element by shaping as I stitch. I do not use any premade forms or hat blocks. I shape each hat as I stitch, this “free-form” shaping gives each hat a unique shape, and, I feel, maintains a freshness and vitality in my work. I approach each hat as an individual sculpture. I enjoy exploring the ability of fashion to change a person by the simple act of wearing clothing or an accessory such as a hat. It causes one to travel to another part of oneself, or change one’s personality without going anywhere.