A word of caution. Straws (Paja, Milan, rafia, rye) do become brittle with age. I sent one in to a hatter adept in blocking Panama straw. In the reblocking process the straw split, one split on each side along the front crown crease. I think it is the nature of the straw so on second thought reblocking it maybe a most terrible idea.
Paja should last indefinitely if it's well cared for and it gets enough water although normal wear and tear takes it's toll. I would think a risk assessment would be in order before reblocking a hat.
Yes, definitely. The hatter was well experienced in blocking Panamas and the hat was not that old. But the straw just cracked. Because the splits were so clean I was able to boot it with a bit of leather on the back side and the repair cannot be seen. But it certainly made an impression on me about the potential fragility of straw.
Just a point of order but since this is a specific Panama thread, can we stick with the two Ps - Panama and Paja. The word, straw is much too generic for afficionados.
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I edited mine in order to be more specific.Just a point of order but since this is a specific Panama thread, can we stick with the two Ps - Panama and Paja. The word, straw is much too generic for afficionados.
