Alternative Methods for Hat Stretching?

[SinatraStyle]

Are there any methods of stretching a hat without using a hat stretcher? I recently purchased a new hat, but it's a bit snug. I don't have a stretcher and would like to avoid sending it out if there is a way that I can do it myself. I only need to stretch it from 7 1/4 to a small 7 3/8.

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Thank you

 

[Cruiser]

Are there any methods of stretching a hat without using a hat stretcher? I recently purchased a new hat, but it's a bit snug. I don't have a stretcher and would like to avoid sending it out if there is a way that I can do it myself. I only need to stretch it from 7 1/4 to a small 7 3/8.

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Thank you

I would be inclined to just wear it for a while--it may stretch out a bit without your having to do anything else.

 

[SHARPETOYS]

The knee trick... Moisten the sweat band and stretch it on your knee...

 

[Top Hat]

I have a garment steamer, which I use to gently steam my hats, then I let them dry on my head. I do have a vintage hat stretcher, but I try not to use it very often.

 

[Russ]

Keep in mind that most home stretching methods only stretch the bottom part of the crown, which can result in a tapered look when viewed from the side. Maybe that doesn't bother you, though. I don't know how to stretch the entire crown without sending it out for a reblock.

 

[SinatraStyle]

Thank you

Thank you for the replies. I only need to stretch the hat a small amount, so some moisture and a gentle knee-stretching sound like they will do the trick. Wearing the hat should take care of the rest.

Thank you again, Gentlemen!