Pattern Fantastique Belle Hat

The Belle is a reversible floppy hat sewing pattern. With a robust outer fabric and lighter inner fabric, the combination of weights gives the perfect floppy fall for this lazy day hat. Optional mini loop details for both inside and outside are included to hold ties that double as crown trim. You can have loops on both, one side, or none. The brim bias edge trim makes an easy-to-achieve finish with a split edge so the bias safely frays. This technique means you can have either contrast or matching trim on both sides.  Partial brim wire can be added if required to keep the brim out of your eyes without compromising the floppy hat's aesthetics. The notions include a few accessible wire options to make sourcing easier.  Level: Intermediate Pattern sizes: XS - L  or 20-7/8" to 23-13/16" The Belle is a soft-fitting hat; the higher crown is on the narrower side, with the brim point a softer fit. The tie can cinch in the brim for a firmer fit. Thicker fabric will shrink the head circumference slightly. Recommended fabrics: We recommend an outer fabric that is weighty, has no stretch, is 250 GSM +, and has a pliable finish to help craft the soft crown curves, cotton twill, denim, canvas.  For the inner fabric, lighter, stable cotton is perfect - a minimum of 120 GSM. Avoid fabrics that tend to grow, like linen or cellulose-based fabrics.  The combination of these weights plus the construction method will turn the seams into the scaffolding for the brim.  Interfacing is optional and can be used to build up the fabric body and give a consistent, smooth texture for crunchier fabrics. It will also improve the overall fall and shape of the Belle. You can use this on both the inner and/or outer fabrics. Paper pattern is fully illustrated with step-by-step instructions.