I don't really know why any reasonable professional hatter or anyone else should take offense. Terry's viewpoint is just as valid as anyone else's, doesn't seem intended to cause offense, and is factually correct.
It is indisputable that some great quality work is being done by some of the FL members who are not professional hatters. The FL membership & powers that be should be very proud of them and proud that they continue to learn and share, and also choose to showcase their work, on the FL.
It is also indisputable that the pros will lose _some_ quantum of business if more people here make, renovate, and convert their own hats, and inspire others to do the same. I don't imagine they feel too threatened by amateurs. What we are doing is still a far cry from running a successful hat making business.
I have not been here forever, but I have read a lot of the older threads. I don't recall reading about Art Fawcett getting blowback from other hatters for going pro, and that has most certainly cost some of them business.
It is indisputable that some great quality work is being done by some of the FL members who are not professional hatters. The FL membership & powers that be should be very proud of them and proud that they continue to learn and share, and also choose to showcase their work, on the FL.
It is also indisputable that the pros will lose _some_ quantum of business if more people here make, renovate, and convert their own hats, and inspire others to do the same. I don't imagine they feel too threatened by amateurs. What we are doing is still a far cry from running a successful hat making business.
I have not been here forever, but I have read a lot of the older threads. I don't recall reading about Art Fawcett getting blowback from other hatters for going pro, and that has most certainly cost some of them business.
Last edited: