How to reshape a felt hat at home

Start with steam, not water. Hold the hat over a kettle for a few seconds until the felt softens, then bend the brim gently with both hands.

Work in small movements. Bend, check against a flat surface, then bend again. One hard crease is much harder to undo than three soft ones.

Let the hat dry on its crown at room temperature. Never put it on a radiator or use a hairdryer: heat shrinks felt and distorts the brim.

If the crown has lost its shape, stuff it lightly with tissue while it dries and steam the crease back into place before it cools.