& use
Applying PVA
When applying PVA to felt, the stiffener is brushed onto the inside of the hat body before blocking. The hat body should then be rolled up and placed in a sealed plastic bag for 15–20 minutes to allow the solution to penetrate the fibres. After this, position the cloche over the spout of a steamer and steam it thoroughly for at least 10 minutes, rotating it from time to time so the heat
reaches all areas evenly. Adequate steaming ensures that the stiffener dissolves properly and becomes effective.
PVA can also be used on straw, either before or after blocking. As with felt, the material must be well steamed after application in order to activate the stiffener.
Light coats
Whichever stiffener is chosen, it should be applied in light coats to prevent the material from appearing overly rigid or plastic-like. The solution can be brushed or sprayed on, and several layers may be built up as needed.
BRUSH CARE When working with solvent-based
stiffeners, brushes are not cleaned in the usual way, as they would be with water- based products. Instead, they are briefly rinsed in thinner or methanol and then
left to dry. Once dry, the bristles will feel hard but placing the brush in thinner – or directly into the stiffener – for a few
minutes before use will soften them again. Keep the thinner or methanol in a tightly sealed container, as it can be reused for brush cleaning in future projects.
Note: Methanol is a single solvent (wood alcohol), whereas ‘thinner’ is a commercial blend of solvents that may include methanol, ethanol, acetone, or others. Both are highly flammable and should – like all alcohol-based stiffeners – only be used in well-ventilated
areas. Avoid skin contact, wear gloves when possible, and keep containers tightly sealed and away from heat sources.
© the hat magazine
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