I’ve included the PDF (or SVG) file and step-by-step instructions below so you can make your own.

Resources

• Bat fascinator file in SVG or PDF format
• 1/4 yard of black buckram
• black metallic textured faux leather
• Liquid Fusion or other quick-drying fabric glue
• black fascinator hat base
• black headband
• 1 yard black millinery wire
• rhinestone trim
• six faux flowers
• black or gray Silamide thread
• black thread
• pliers

Bat Fascinator Construction

Using the PDF or SVG file at the final size you wish your bat to be, cut two buckram bat shapes, adding a 2-inch (in) by 1 in (5 cm by 2.5 cm) tall tab below the center of the bat. Slice the tabs so you have a one tab with three legs: 1/2 in, 1 in, 1/2 in (1.3 cm, 2.5 cm, 1.3 cm).

Placing the bats on top of each other, stitch around the edge at 1/8 in (3 mm). Zigzag the layers of tabs together.

Cut a long piece of millinery wire and bend it to the approximate shape of the top edge of the bat using pliers, extending off the edge of each wing by at least one inch. Cut a second piece, bending it to match the bottom of the bat shape (not the wings).

Using a wide zigzag stitch, attach the wire to the buckram. Using your pliers, create small loops with the excess wire at the end of each wing; this will remove the sharp ends of the wire.

Using the SVG file and your craft cutting machine (or the PDF file and an Exacto knife), cut two faux leather shapes to match the bat outline and wing ribs. Because I used a scrap of faux leather, I cut each of mine in four pieces: one for each wing, one for the head, and one for the bottom edge.

Glue one bat border and ribs to one side of your buckram bat using Liquid Fusion or quick-drying fabric glue. (A hair dryer will really speed up the drying process!)

While the glue is drying, construct your fascinator base. Attach the fascinator frame to your headband using a wide zigzag stitch over the headband in three spots. It should be secure, but the headband can also slide a bit so you can reposition the fascinator to either side as you wish.

Stitch two millinery wire supports to the fascinator on either side of where you want to place the bat. I made circles and then bent them upwards and twisted the ends. The photo above shows a single wire support, and the photo below shows them both.

Once your glue is dry, use Silamide thread to attach the rhinestone trim around the entire exterior of the bat, cutting at corners and points to make sure they look sharp. I used rhinestone trim with a black base, so it would blend into the faux leather outline.

Of course I went for more bling! If you want to add rhinestone drops hanging from the bat wings, lay out each length of rhinestone drop (approximately 2-4 inches) and stitch to the bottom point of each bat wing and ribs.

Glue the second faux leather bat border and ribs to the backside of the fascinator, hiding your stitching.

To attach your big bat to the fascinator, slide the two millinery wire supports up through the layers of buckram and position the tabs on the fascinator. Stitch the center tab forward between the front support. Stitch the smaller two side tabs next to each side of the back support. Using tiny stitches, stitch the two millinery wire supports inside the bat to secure.

Glue or stitch three faux flowers on front and another 3 to the back of the fascinator, hiding the millinery wire armature and the tabs of the bat.

Try on trims such as rickrack or pom poms. Sew on a sheer overlay like lace or flocked tulle to spice up your sunshade. If you’re feeling adventurous, dial up the drama by applying some appliqués or experimenting with embroidery. Have a bit of leftover fabric from another sewing project? Why not make a matching hat? The possibilities are endless!

xoxo, Mary

This pattern was originally published on Patreon on May 15, 2022.

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Direct link to this pattern ]]> https://charmpatterns.com/charlotte-beret-pattern/ Sat, 15 Jan 2022 08:53:09 +0000 https://charmpatterns.com/?p=49925 I’m so excited to be the first guest designer in the Charm Artist Collective! This theme was just begging for a beret pattern, so I knew I would have to dig into my vault of vintage millinery inspiration for just the right thing. I’m pleased to present to you the Charlotte Beret, a feminine topper with a sculpted, face-framing shape and a sultry veil option. I’ve designed the pattern with a dart and shaped brim to give the beret its signature vintage tilted look. Make it in slouchy boiled wool for a Parisian artiste look, or try cotton velvet for the perfect little cocktail hat—especially when paired with the optional veil and bow. 

This is  a fabulous project for advanced beginners, but even the most expert sewist will find it a great addition to their rotation. (Who doesn’t love a Gentlemen Prefer Blondes moment?) I love a chic, everyday staple, especially one that comes together quickly. I hope you love it as much as we do!

xoxo, Charlotte

About the guest artist: Charlotte Dymock has been interested in vintage fashion and its historical context for as long as she can remember. Having started sewing from vintage patterns to recreate and reimagine the looks she found in 1940s and ’50s magazines, catalogs, and movies, more recently she has developed an interest in sewing techniques for vintage millinery to bring the whole-outfit vision to life. Find her on Instagram at @tuppencehapenny. 

This pattern was originally published on Patreon on January 15, 2022.

Sign up on Patreon to get this pattern

Direct link to this pattern ]]>