Based on the provided reference, you can successfully stretch a felt hat by approximately 1/4 inch without causing distortion.
Stretching a felt hat can help improve its fit if it's slightly too tight. The reference indicates that a successful stretch of about ~1/4 inch was achieved without distorting the hat's shape. It also notes that increasing the diameter by ~3/8 inch is considered a significant amount.
While felt has some flexibility, the extent to which a specific hat can be stretched depends on factors such as:
- Felt Type: Different felt blends (wool, fur, synthetic) have varying degrees of elasticity.
- Hat Construction: The hat's stiffness, thickness, and how it was blocked affect its stretchability.
- Stretching Method: Using moisture (like a light spray of water, as mentioned in the reference) and a hat stretcher or wearing the hat can aid the process gently.
Key takeaway from the reference:
- A successful stretch without distortion was ~1/4 inch.
- A stretch of ~3/8 inch is considered a lot.
It's important to proceed with caution when attempting to stretch a felt hat, as excessive stretching can potentially damage the material or alter the hat's shape permanently. However, as the reference suggests, if a hat is unwearable due to its size, attempting a careful stretch might be worthwhile.
