Finally got a #52 block !!!

[Rick Blaine]

... I am looking very fwd. to pounding some hot,wet felt onto this ASAP!

But as all can see, it is not in the finest condition. I was hoping someone here with some woodworking experience could suggest a way (Lrg. staples pounded flush?) to arrest the large crack that has begun, also is there any advantage in giving this a polyurethane coating? The same seller had #52s in my size (7 3/8) as well as 7 1/8 & 7 5/8, if I recall correctly, as well as about a dozen of these old stretchers, I got this one, marked 7 1/4 for ten bucks...

]

 

[Orgetorix]

What's the significance of a #52 block?

 

[Rick Blaine]

#52

It's a standard block for 1930s fedoras. It renders a high, straight crown with no taper. It was the block shape used for the ROTLA fedora(s).

 

[Wayfarer]

Cracked wood

I am no woodworker either or i would be making myself a block.

But I do remember my Grand Dad saying the cracked wood was the result of drying out. I do remember him soaking wood pieces in water and then clamping either glued or screwed pieces back together.

But I am a child of the 60's and my memory isnt what it used to be. So you might want to check on a woodworking or antique refinishing forum somewhere.