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.
John Lofgren Monkey Boots Shinki Horsebuttt - $1,136 The classic monkey boot silhouette in an incredibly rich Shinki russet horse leather. 
Grant Stone Diesel Boot Dark Olive Chromexcel - $395 Goodyear welted, Horween Chromexcel, classic good looks. 
Schott 568 Vandals Jacket - $1,250 The classic Perfecto motorcycle jacket, in a very special limited-edition Schott double rider style.
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.
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.
