Looking for milliner feedback on customizable 3D-printable hat blocks
I’ve been developing an online tool for creating customizable, 3D-printable hat blocks.
The project began because traditional blocks can be difficult to source in a precise combination of head size, oval shape, crown height, and profile. Maintaining a complete block collection also requires considerable space and investment.
The current configurator supports:
• Sizes from 52–69 cm
• Round, oval, and long-oval head shapes
• Multiple crown heights and block profiles
• Matching hat plates
• Downloadable models for 3D printing
My original focus has been western felt hats, but I would like the system to become useful to a wider range of milliners. Before adding more block styles, I’d appreciate input from people experienced in blocking felt, straw, and other materials.
A few questions I’m especially interested in:
• Which block profiles should be added first?
• How important are custom head ovals compared with standard ovals?
• Would sectional or puzzle blocks be useful?
• What concerns would you have about using a properly printed polymer block?
• Which measurements and adjustments should a configurator include?
You can see the current project here: app.heraldhats.com
Full disclosure: this is a product I created, but my main purpose in posting is to get informed feedback from more experienced milliners.