All Discussions Tagged 'Essential Discussions' - Learn How To Make Hats Online | Hat Academy Millinery Courses

hat steamer ideas?

2015-04-13T04:15:59.320Z

Hello Everyone!,

I want to get started on my Beginners Course, but cannot afford a hat steamer right now......does anyone have any suggestions and/or success stories using something else?

thanks heaps,

Annette

Whats your studio/workroom like? Share some images

2014-05-24T05:50:15.457Z

Hi All, I am looking for some inspiration for studio design. My room has been ready to paint and fill with goodies for around 6mths, but I am yet to lock down the builder hubby to finish the project, so while I am patiently waiting I may as well perfect the layout and storage design. Please show me your areas for inspiration. I am currently working from the dining room table and cannot wait to have my own little space. Thanks in advance.

Consulting at home, theirs or yours?

2014-02-13T22:13:13.531Z

How do those of you without showrooms, shops, stockists or other outlets meet with your clients, to decide styles, match colours and fittings?

Do you travel to their homes or do people come to you?

If you work online, how do you cope with colour matching?

I am having to rethink my way of working, as my stockist has suddenly (today) pulled out of the space we shared and I cannot remain in the space without their support.

I make from home,(part time only) but without a major rethink or sudden growth of space, it is not really practical for me to open the house up, as there are so many rules about businesses from home, rates, insurance etc..

I have read a previous thread about Millinery stores, but wondered how others managed this if they worked from home.

sewing machines?

2014-02-03T01:30:05.835Z

As a complete beginner, and someone who's hand stitching leaves a lot to be desired, what sewing machine is recommended by all you experienced milliners out there?

Millinery for beginner tools?

2014-01-08T02:29:25.930Z

Starting out in millinery can be daunting as the blocks & steamers etc. involve a financial outlay. Of all the millinery equipment & tools you use which one would you suggest for a beginner as the top priority to purchase?

HAT BOXES - to box or not to box?

2013-06-10T03:57:21.637Z

Hello everyone,

I have a few questions about hat boxes. When a customer purchases a piece from you do you...

-Give them an option of a hat box at an additional price

-Include the hatbox with the order gratis (and have the cost price taken into account with the hat sold)

I have been looking to buy some online because I'd really like to give my customers something to store their piece in so it's looked after, seeing so much time and effort goes into them.

What type of box do you find is best or that customers prefer (clear plastic, round cardboard, hexagonal shape)?

I have found a few suppliers overseas but I would really like to support an Australian based business if possible.

Your help and advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks - Mel :)

Model or Mannequin??

2013-01-29T17:54:59.310Z

Hi all,

Looking through some of the fabulous photos on here and on various websites. I think I have come to the conclusion a model to show of the head piece is best?

At my early stage in y millinery journey I am currently using a polystyrene swan neck, and it looks ok, for now. But depending on costs I think I'm going to use a model. My friend has two lovely daughters who are happy to oblige, (one dark brown hair the other blonde.) I have a decent SLR camera so will give it a go.

Just wondered any other thoughts on this view? Do you think it looks more 'professional' on model or mannequin? And of course it takes more time with a model? Sorry loads of question ;-)

Kind regards

Susan

What's your studio look like?

2013-01-22T07:49:18.935Z

Originally my studio was a portion of the family room with clutter for all to see and constant interruptions. When my first child moved out of home I took over the bed room as my studio. To create storage I purchased a renovators old kitchen. The bench works well for my workspace and plenty of cupboards for storage.

What's your millinery studio look like? How do you manage your work and storage space?

How does everyone sell their hats?

2012-08-25T22:17:19.585Z

Hi, I keep seeing all these gorgeous, beautiful hats and wonder: Where does everyone sell their hats? I do have an Etsy store which has been nice, but I haven't found any other niche. Opening my own store is out of the question for many reasons. Years ago I went the consignment route and don't think I'll do that again. I would love any input, before I start 'peddling my wares' door to door! And then it becomes hard to compete with every $35 fedora, including Nordstroms. I'm thinking of sending a sample hat to a few select stores, with other pictures, price list, and a cover letter.

Thanks for your input.

Kathleen

MILLINERY BUSINESS PLANS

2012-08-21T04:16:08.379Z

I'm in the process of creating my first "proper" collection for 2013. I want to write up a 5 year business plan to use it as a tool for planning my millinery career and approaching stockists etc. Does anyone know of any websites where you can download useful template business plans for free? Or do you have an example you could share? I'm finding that most business plans on the web are just not designed for creative industries.

Any advice re business plan content greatly appreciated!

Thanks
VMM