Hey Everyone, I started a new series of "Compact Classics" for Fitted Caps, and the topic of this video is covered in a newer and shorter video here - ruclips.net/video/B3lDzEmtyx0/видео.html - thanks for your viewership!
that was the best hat shaping tutorial ever..i am shaping and stretching hats that I lost hope of ever wearing.ive bought so many hats only to hate the fit when I get home.I have quite a collection covered in dust. I thank you sir,you are a true Renaissance man.
Okay. First time asking a question. First of all. I love your videos. My question is or my problem is this. I just purchased a cool used cap from eBay, but the seller sent it to me in a dang bag, not a box. The crown is smashed. Not a lot, but some. I love the crown to be high, and obviously, sturdy. What can I do to reshape the crown/buck rum to its original shape. I want the shape back. I want it sturdy and high. Sorry if I missed this on any of your videos brother. Help a cap enthusiast out Doug. Hope to hear from you soon. Anything. Any link Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thank you. And thanks again for your videos. God bless
JRSanchez93 is it better to stretch a smaller hat or shrink a smaller one? I am in a similar situation stuck between 7 and 7 1/8. The inconsistency in fit for any given size is frustrating....usually takes months for a 7 1/8 to feel right....and after a few months the 7’s feel too tight. I’m hoping these tips will help me salvage my collection as well
I buy the low profile 5950 hats specifically because of the high crown issue with their regular 5950s. Thanks for the stretching tips, I find that New Eras sizing is never the same with two different hats!
Been looking for the answer since I was19 on how mlb players wears their hats with perfect bill curve... now i finally got the answer after almost 20 years.. thank you sir!
Cool, glad I could help out... btw I have another video where I show three different ways to do it, but all of them involve steam - you can see that here if you like, thanks - ruclips.net/video/r5i3ZlAIMG8/видео.html
Great video, my hat size is actually between sizes and because of your video I am able to wear my fitted hats that were too small for me. I just got my hat stretcher today, and the steaming idea is great. Thank you for the great video😁
I got into collecting new era Jaguars hats, and I've been looking for advice just like this. Your voice is also very calming, if that makes sense. Thank you!
Hey thanks man, appreciate that - I do try to keep it steady while narrating, and this was one of my first posted videos... tons more like this at my channel, so if you're collecting I think you'll find some good stuff!
Thanks for all your information and tips. I just watched this video and stretched my Pirate hat for a perfect fit. As you have said in the past, the sizes vary quite a bit. I wear a 7 1/4 and when I order one it's like buying a box of chocolates. I've been a baseball cap fanatic since the 50s when I was a kid. In those days you couldn't buy a cap that the players actually wore on the field. All I could ever find were stupid cheap caps with no crown and cardboard visors.
Thank you so much for that awesome tutorial. 5950's are my favorite caps, but the variation in same numbered sizes always made it difficult to be consistent. This was such a huge help. I just saved a too tight cap and it now fit's perfectly!
After watching this video i went and did the hair dryer method to all my fitted caps for a better fit and look. Worked great! Honestly don't know why I didn't try this before. I did however try the hot water trick to the crown like other videos showed and this method works a lot better. My hats off to you sir!.
Cool, good to hear. I can't claim original credit for the hair dryer technique, but I have found that it fits in well as one of these three steps for shaping caps. Thanks for the comment!
IMO, the 59FIFTY has the best shape of all, as far as the crown is concerned. I like to curve the brim just a bit and the best way i found was to break the brim a little bit by hand first(just like you did in the video), put the hat on and press the 2 edges of the brim(where the brim meets the bottom crown) towards your temple. Apply some steam(careful) to relax the brim and hold still until it's dry. The brim will relax afterwards and you'll get a nice and almost like natural curve.
Um so Ive been avoiding new era and sticking with 47 Brand as their styles diminish because New era didn't fit my head and this is great. I will say their new low profile 59fiftys take a lot of this work out
Dude, lifelong cap wearer, so many good tips here, cap life skills, I just thought they fitted or didnt lol! loads easier than reshaping your head (I've tried)
The hat jack is a great idea since many of these fitted hat usually don’t fit and this way you can custom fit, like buying not hem pants and later hem to your liking,
wow, why couldn't I figured out it earlier? o_O this is what I nedded for many years!! love the low crown cap that wore (rappers especially) int the 90's. thanks to you good man. greetings from Ukraine!
dre in the 616 yesterday I watched one riveting video ruclips.net/video/UOiRwHWx7tg/видео.html none knows where to buy this equipment. guess, it would be interesting to you as well.
I got a big ass head. Funny lumpy big head. And i grow my hair out so nobody sees my cranium. And this WORKED like a charm. My new era Nats 2017 playoff hat fits perfectly. Thank you sir!
I just received a wool/Made in USA SD cap in the mail yesterday. I am going to buy the Hat Jack and follow your instructions for fitting your cap. Appreciate the tutorial!
@@dreinthe616 Thanks, man. I believe you said in another video that New Era went polyester in 2007. If so, I assume that it's impossible to get a Toronto Blue Jays cap (current logo) in wool? I've found a couple of them on eBay that are made in USA but they are both poly with that hideous black undervisor.
Yes, might be a tough combo (wool and current logo) to get. I'd say just try and keep an eye on different collections that come out, I've been surprised that some are in wool.
This was great news. I too am a "long head". I used to use water, spaghetti squash and a web belt to make corrections. I don't buy those "little rascal" flat billed caps because they remind me of street urchins during the depression. They alway look like your wearing hats way too big for your head. Can't say I will never buy one now 'cause now I have better corrective surgery knowledge to bend the hats to my will.
those other tutorials are flashy but not as informative and to the point. Thanks for the video. i bought two new era hats online that were limited release in my conventional 7 1/8 but they were tight as hell. i couldn’t return them because they sold out and a limited run. For som reason new era fitted hats that are not baseball (in this case Lakers hats) fit me small even in equivalent size. Thanks again!
Thanks for the question...you can only safely expect to stretch by 1/8 of a size, sometimes 1/4 if you leave the cap on the jack and repeat the process over a couple of days. I don't see any way to go from a 7 all the way to 7-1/2 without wrecking the cap in some way.
Thanks for this, Doug!!! I come across the high crown issue often because I mail order my New Eras (Online styles are mostly cooler than what's at the local Lids). No way to know what you're buying til you've waited a few days for delivery. Then if you love it, you don't wanna go through the exchange process. My new challenge is shrinking acrylic snapbacks and trucker hats. I can't do ovens and dryer hacks because I'm afraid the plastics will melt. Any help you can provide there would be greatly appreciated.
Hey, wish I had a little more expertise in that area... but I have not worked a lot with those cap types. You have it right that the softening or melt temperature is the most important thing to consider. I think acrylic and polypropylene are a little higher temps, while nylon is a little lower. Maybe you have one you wouldn't miss if you used it for experimenting? Good luck!
Wait, do you buy your hats a size small and stretch them ? Or do you by your normal size ? I normally wear. 7 1/4 but i find that on some of them the sides flare out a bit. Would i want to use the hat jack or would i just want to do the method of spraying it with water and using a hair dryer to slightly shrink the hat
I usually buy 7-1/2, and that's my normal size - but I use the hat jack to get a more oval shape to match my head shape. If you're getting bowing at the sides, I'd maybe try picking up a "small" size hat jack (for your 7-1/4 normal) and elongating the hat shape a little bit. Or even try a 7-1/8 cap (one size smaller) and stretch it with the hat jack. Lots of size variation in caps, and it's easier to stretch than shrink. You could also do this - ruclips.net/video/yG9rcE7UuVI/видео.html - to take out the extra space. Lots of options, good luck!
That's not a bad idea - anything a little bigger might give the radius you like. I experimented with an empty quart paint can from the hardware store too. Thanks for the comment, I appreciate it!
Best tutorial yet!! For the hat jack should I get a medium size 7 1/8 - 7 1/2 if I am a 7 1/2 in the 5950 caps? Keep up the great & helpful tutorials, hope to see you review the new "PROLIGHT" version would be very cool. Thanks alot
Yes, I am a 7-1/2 and that's the size that I bought. There is enough expansion room in the threads to go well beyond 7-1/2, and that size also supports the "Long Oval" head shape that I mention. Just remember that you can repeat the procedure if you don't get enough shaping or stretch the first time. Thanks for the comment, and I do plan to post a review of the Prolight caps within the next week or so, as Spring Training gets rolling!
... and when referring to "threads" below I meant the mechanical screw threads in the hat jack - they will keep going past 7-1/2 if you buy that size of Hat Jack.
Hey Doug, here's a bit of a curve ball... I tried stretching two of my 5950 caps and two odd problems arose. So one cap has a sheen appliquéd coating it and now that has cracks in it. The second cap's issue is that the steam wrinkled the buckram to the point where is seems to have permanent grooves. For the first cap someone suggested applying KIWI Camp Dry to re-coat it, and for the second I've tried steaming it more carefully while either pulling on it from both ends or inserting a small soccer ball while applying more steam -I'm even considering using an iron. Please note, I'm sure these mistakes are all mine and has nothing to do with your stellar demonstration -as this was the first time trying to do this and I probably was to aggressive. Like you I own many caps, but still I hate to discard these because l feel something can be done to bring'em back from the dead. Thanks for hearing me out!
You have mentioned a couple of techniques that I show in videos already, so I would check those out if you have not seen them - Fixing Dents and Creases ( ruclips.net/video/4-q4ufu5M6w/видео.html ) and Using a Form to Round ( ruclips.net/video/03SATQZRHnw/видео.html ). For sure, it is important to limit the steam exposure, because those plastic fibers in the buckram can start to buckle and deform relatively quickly under intense heat. As far as the coating on the other cap, I've not really done any kind of coatings on a fitted - only waxed some canvas boots before. I would think that any kind of coating would take away the ability of the cap to breathe? Anyway, good luck with the repairs, thanks for the question.
@@dreinthe616 Thanks for always be so helpful! FYI, that fist cap came coated from New Era. It's pretty special 'cause I've never seen another like it -which is why I'm trying so hard to bring it back. Hope you have a great weekend friend!
Yes! I have stretched their Polyester "NuWool" caps many times, and talk about it a little bit in my "Material Comparison" video. A lot of it has to do with the fact that the sizing band on the inside is plastic, so the heat allows that to stretch without breaking, while the steam helps with the fabric. The Polyester caps do have a tendency to draw back a little bit over time, but you can repeat the process if you feel them getting tight again. Thanks for watching!
Very helpful videos on your channel. Thumbs up!! Got a cap in my size 7 1/8. I Did your shaping technique with the hat jack and with a Philips steam n go. It works out. Unfortunately, the cap is a lil bit too loose now at the sides at the sizing now. I think I just stretched and shaped it a little bit too much. I also feel, that the four backpanels got a little bit tighter and there is less room than it was before cause I steamed the wrinkles out the cap, too. Doug, what kind of techniques I could use to make the sizing smaller and avoid to shrink the panels more? Thank you
I did a newer video with these basic techniques - ruclips.net/video/B3lDzEmtyx0/видео.html - you should check that out and consider buying a bump cap insert to hold shape with the back four panels when shaping/stretching. I'd say don't worry about a little overstretching, time and wear usually corrects that - but you could always steam it with no hat jack or inserts, and it should contract a little bit, thanks.
No, I am a normal 7-1/2 and most of the time I go with that - really you are just changing the shape of the cap. Sometimes I'll stretch a 7-3/8, because that one might have been the best one that I tried on in the store. It's easier to stretch than shrink, for sure!
When you take the hat jack stretcher off the hat it starts to gradually go back to its original size. That's cranking down on the hat jack as much as it will go also so you only get about 30 minutes before the hat is tight on your head again..
That is not true, based on my experience stretching 25-30 caps. If you steam it, then expand (and repeat if needed) - then let it sit for a few hours, you have added size and shape to the cap. Over six months or so I may have to refresh the polyester caps a bit, but mine generally stay the way I have shaped them.
Hi doug, I'm just search anything about New Era Caps then youtube put me here. I wanted to tell you, your videos in your channel was so cool man. Very entertaining and lots of good idea for Baseball cap lover like me. But when I saw this video this trick, I wanted to try it on my caps that have many wrinkles on it. Is this applicable on any baseball cap brand? Materials etc. Your response much appreciated man! One love.
Hey, thanks for the great comments. You should go straight to my channel, where you can find my video on Smoothing the Wrinkles in Baseball Caps - ruclips.net/video/KEp8IpuQVf8/видео.html Steam works really well for this, and maybe you'll need to stuff a towel or something inside when you steam it. Watch the video and give it a try, good luck!
I never understood why the shape of the fitted caps that baseball players wear are so much better than the ones in stores. They are the same 59fifty, aren't they?
Two answers... since 2019 the players caps are still made in the USA, while consumer caps are made by contract manufacturers in a few regions of the world. Second, the store caps are basically fresh out of the factory, and allow you to break them in... as there's almost certainly a lot of breaking in that happens with the players behind the scenes, and also likely a dedicated New Era rep that frequently provides caps to the team.
Hey John, thanks! Unfortunately I am not a member of either one, since I've never had a Facebook account. Of the two, FHS definitely looks the most promising, so I would plan to join if/when I ever sign up for FB!
Great video! You stated getting a hat stretcher that is a little bit lower than my hat size. Is that to avoid over stretching the hat? I know you stated you wear a 71/2 hat so your stretcher is a 7 1/8 to a 7 1/2 but getting a stretcher that goes to your hat size will it provide room to open the hat up more? Sorry if my question is crazy but I want to make sure I get the right size and not damage my hat by over stretching it. Thanks for your help
Actually I recommend that because I have a long oval head shape, and I believe the blocks get wider as you get a larger hat jack. I have a narrow head, and I've got another video where I shaved off a bit of the sides of the wood blocks to customize it a bit more. Overstretching is something you'll have to watch for on your own, because the turnbuckle still has thread to keep going, but you'll know when you're starting to go too far. You can repeat the process 2-3 times if you'd rather "sneak up" on the right amount of stretch, thanks.
Hey Doug, I found a fitted that I was interested in purchasing that’s a 7 1/4 but I’m usually a 7 1/2, do you think I can stretch it enough so it’d comfortably fit? Or would that be difficult to achieve.
Usually I only expect to expand by 1/8 of a size - to get 1/4 you have to go really far, and it just never seems great for the cap, it can get really distorted in my experience. And you might still never get a comfortable fit.
Dude, you are six years behind, this was my first video ever. You can see my channel videos page for more recent topics, including shaping the crown, and video #1 of a new compact series - ruclips.net/video/B3lDzEmtyx0/видео.html - no smart-arsed comments necessary.
Really good content as usual. I really like the style of the og 59fifty. I bought a 59fifty 7 7/8 but its a bit to loose. Is it possible to shrink or should i buy a smaller size instead and expand it 😁?
I almost always believe it's easier to stretch than to shrink. If it's only a small amount too loose, then you can try a technique from one of my shrinking videos. Thanks!
Have never tried it, so unfortunately I don't really have an opinion to offer. Steam and blocking (like the hat stretcher does for a portion of the cap) are long-time tools of hat makers, so I don't think you can really go wrong with trying them - even if you go slow to measure the effects. Thanks.
¿Te refieres a los equipos y logos? La mayoría de mis gorras son gorras de campo de los equipos de la MLB o provienen de colecciones de diferentes diseños. No estoy seguro si las mismas colecciones se venden en otras regiones.
Hey, thanks man... you are correct about the inconsistency, I made a recent video about that topic too - ruclips.net/video/aeZ0olFQQyc/видео.html - if you are interested.
Hey dude I have a quick question does the retro crown fit hats fit the same as the low profiles? I wear 7 1/4 in regular but 7 3/8 in low profile. I’m about to buy a retro crown and wondering if you have any experience with those. Thanks 🤝
You're going to want to get the 'small' hat jack. There's enough room in the threads to go past 7-1/8, so you should be fine with that. There's no real difference in brand, as there's a lot of outfits that just stamp their logo on one block. Thanks
Thanks for this, Doug! I guess this has already been asked before but I couldn't find the answer: Can you also stretch and a shape a New Era Diamond Era hat the way you show it? Or does it not work due to maybe different material of the Diamond Era hats? Thanks in advance!
Can't thank you enough for your channel man! I've use these methods on all 25 of my 59Fifty Low Profile on-field caps. I am having trouble getting the head shape to stick though. Is that normal? It doesn't return to the way it started by any means. But it does tend to start to bow a little at the ears. Could I be doing something wrong?
No, I've experienced that also - the shaping effects can fade over time. You can repeat the process with the hat jack, and maybe crank a little past where you think you need to... then leave it on the jack overnight. That will make the changes more durable. And be sure to store your caps in the open position (i.e. don't fold them in like they are at the store).
I've got a new New Era snapback (made from 100% polyester) I really like, but oddly enough (because I've never had an issue with snapbacks) it won't fit right as is. The size I normally wear is a bit too big -so the hat drops down & presses against my ears. The next size down is so tight it left a mark and my forehead and was quite uncomfortable. My question is... can you tweak snapbacks like you do fitted caps, and if so to what extent? I want to be somewhat careful to not loosen the plastic snap in the back. Would it be more sensible to go from the bigger size down or in your opinion try to enlarge a size up? Also, I have found your video very helpful and easy to follow. Thank you for doing such a great job and for responding to our questions.
Thanks for the question, and I have to be honest that I don't have much experience working with snapbacks. I think the best thing you might be able to do is start at the smaller size with the snap adjust, then get it on the hat jack and steam and slightly expand it as shown in this video. That might get it to a bit longer, more narrow shape that can prevent the forehead pressure. On fitteds there is a plastic "sizing" band inside the sweatband that can stretch with heat, but I'm not sure if that is used in snapbacks. I'd say just try it and go a little bit at a time, good luck.
One additional idea I came across today was replacing the plastic strap in the back with a leather one that's more adjustable to my size. I'll try your method, and if that doesn't work simply switch out with the plastic for leather. Also, I've been told it's probably a good idea to remove all stickers before applying any kind off heat or moisture. Thank you again for the prompt and useful advice.
It stays stretched for a while, but sometimes I need to give it a refresh - sometimes 3-5 months later depending on how often you wear and/or sweat in it.
Is it possible to easily stretching the cap without the hat jack? I have just received my first 5950 and I would like to shape it a little bit. Thanks!
I'd recommend checking out this video - ruclips.net/video/6FOY-MES6xg/видео.html - where I shape my cap and break it in without using a hat jack. If you need to stretch it at all, there really isn't a good substitute for a hat jack... thanks for the question.
Hey, just done this last night, it worked. My low profile hat doesn't pinch anymore. However, how long does the stretch last before you have to do it again?
It varies depending on how often you wear and/or sweat in it, and the amount of stretch you put in to start with. Personally I only need to refresh every 6-9 months or so, but I rotate wearing a lot of hats so it's sometimes tough to tell. Sometimes you can leave it on the jack overnight, then steam and stretch a little bit more, that will definitely make it longer-lasting if you like. Thanks!
I don't buy alot of fitted 5950 caps, but I usually try on a cap at the store, bend it a little, and if it feels good, I'll buy it. I perfer my cap with a slight curve, but over time curve the bill a little more. By then, my hat feels a bigger than the initial purchase, when trying on. Would you recommend buying a size down? Like a little snug and using a hat jack to get an "in between" size?
Yes, curving the visor changes the perimeter shape of the cap, and the fit usually changes as a result. I always grab a stack of caps and find one that is a little snug because I know that the hat jack can shape and stretch. I suspect that a lot of people end up with the wrong size, because that flat visor distorts the shape, and my shrinking videos are very popular!
@@dreinthe616 thanks for the response! I think I will try buying a snug hat for my next purchase and invest in a hat jack. I'll have to experiment with the jack, to get get the best fit, I don't wanna feel like I'm throwing away money on fitteds.
Hi, do you know the diameter of the mug that you use? Also great vid. I had 1 out 4 of hat that I perfectly shaped using my hands, but now I think it will improve more from watching this vid. ty
It's just a little less than 4", or close to 95mm. I sometimes use an empty quart paint can from the hardware store, and that's a little bigger diameter. It will be very curved if you use these, but it can be opened up with a little flexing, and it relaxes over time. Thanks!
Hey, thanks... and the only thing I could think of would be a workbench vise - if you could add some wood or other blocks to the top of the vise that would move with it as you crank open the vise.
Sorry if this has been answered before but is there any way getting a 7 1/8 to a 7 3/8 I would really appreciate the help and wanted to see if its possible I got my cousin a hat and im not sure if it will fit him
No, that's too far to go... you should look through the videos tab on my channel, and also check out my recent FAQ video - ruclips.net/video/pvWdhpJ7Rg0/видео.html - 1/8 of a size is about the best you can expect.
Yes, I had that happen a couple of times. I have been able to reduce size a bit by getting a spray bottle, putting a good amount of water on the six panels of the cap (but not the visor), then heating with a hair dryer. I've done it a few times in a row to recover the fit. The other thing you can do is spray those six panels and toss it in the dryer for a bit, but you have to be careful with the visor/bill. Both polyester and wool caps should shrink a little bit with heat, and they will hopefully also pull in the plastic sizing (band) that is also in the sweatband. Time and wearing it helps too. Good luck!
Actually I don't know the official size, but the diameter of the mug here is close to 4", so you need a decent clamp width... I also have a video on three ways to curve your visor - and only one method requires the Quik-Grip. I mostly steam and then hand-shape my visors these days, thanks.
Hi Great video and thats the perfect shape we always want I m about to get a cap that i really wanted from time along but its 7 (im size 7 1/8 ) you really think i can stretch bigger? And the most important i m thinking about the fact that the hat could seem very small in my head And nobody wants that Hope you can answer
When the visor gets soft and 'fatigued' it's usually from bending it a lot, especially bending it cold. Older cardboard visors would also have trouble with excessive moisture, which is why I never soak them in water when cleaning. For the steam, you really shouldn't have too much trouble if you only hold it in the steam for a few seconds. Heating it then bending it - and letting it cool down in the intended shape is the key part of the process, thanks.
Doug. Stephen in Canada. The discrepancies in the Low Pro and 5950 in general are disappointing. I've bought a few low-price that fit true to size at 7 1/4 and found a Red Sox that fit good at 7 3/8. Recently got a Dodgers low-pro and tried it on in store and it felt good, after two years it's tight, leaves a big mark after wear, worn it twice. Do the Hat Jack's work very well? I could buy one one EBay or buy a new cap. Contacted Lids.ca, no receipt, tags no refund. Really like your videos.
Hey thanks... yes, absolutely you should invest in a hat jack. Sometimes it comes in handy to 'refresh' a cap that I have not worn in a while... they do tend to draw in a little over time, especially when you've stretched them or broken them in earlier. The few low profiles I've tried have been true to size for me, but New Era caps are of course notorious for variation.
@@dreinthe616 thanks for your reply Doug. My hat jack is on the way from Ebay at $50 (25 price/25 shipping) ouch. But as you said, a sound investment considering what we pay as collectors. Love the videos. Looking forward to the rev5of your new A's cap!
Hey Everyone, I started a new series of "Compact Classics" for Fitted Caps, and the topic of this video is covered in a newer and shorter video here - ruclips.net/video/B3lDzEmtyx0/видео.html - thanks for your viewership!
that was the best hat shaping tutorial ever..i am shaping and stretching hats that I lost hope of ever wearing.ive bought so many hats only to hate the fit when I get home.I have quite a collection covered in dust. I thank you sir,you are a true Renaissance man.
Cool, glad to hear you are reclaiming your collection!
chris melendez why didn't you try it on in the store? Or at least have your head measurements, and buy a bigger size
Okay. First time asking a question. First of all. I love your videos. My question is or my problem is this. I just purchased a cool used cap from eBay, but the seller sent it to me in a dang bag, not a box. The crown is smashed. Not a lot, but some. I love the crown to be high, and obviously, sturdy. What can I do to reshape the crown/buck rum to its original shape. I want the shape back. I want it sturdy and high. Sorry if I missed this on any of your videos brother. Help a cap enthusiast out Doug. Hope to hear from you soon. Anything. Any link Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thank you. And thanks again for your videos. God bless
@@jopimp14 I can sympathize with the OP. I'm 7 3/8 but it's a bit tight and 7 1/2 is TOO big. It's best just to stretch it out.
JRSanchez93 is it better to stretch a smaller hat or shrink a smaller one? I am in a similar situation stuck between 7 and 7 1/8. The inconsistency in fit for any given size is frustrating....usually takes months for a 7 1/8 to feel right....and after a few months the 7’s feel too tight. I’m hoping these tips will help me salvage my collection as well
Does anyone else realize that he has a Dodgers and Astros hat? This man just predicted the WS
Lol
He’s a time traveler
Where's the trash can though?
*
Astros are the champs. Way better than the Dodgers
I buy the low profile 5950 hats specifically because of the high crown issue with their regular 5950s. Thanks for the stretching tips, I find that New Eras sizing is never the same with two different hats!
Sure thing - I made a whole video about size variation ICYI - ruclips.net/video/aeZ0olFQQyc/видео.html - thanks!
thats the best toturial ever, got myself a hat jack after watching it and it works perfect, i can finally wear my whole collection.
Very cool... glad it is working well for you, and thanks for the comment!
Finally, someone who gets straight to the point, good job!
Alejandro Hernandez YES! I hate videos where theres a 15 minute prologue. Get to the point
Dude...you're my damn hero! I never heard of a hat jack so I've been struggling for years to find things to put my hats on to stretch them out!
Really cool, man... nothing I like hearing more than someone saving their cap collection with this - thanks!
Thanks for all this great information. With your help I was able to restore a dirty, crumpled, thirty-year-old cap to almost new condition.
That's the stuff I like to hear... glad it all worked out for you, thanks.
Been looking for the answer since I was19 on how mlb players wears their hats with perfect bill curve... now i finally got the answer after almost 20 years.. thank you sir!
Cool, glad I could help out... btw I have another video where I show three different ways to do it, but all of them involve steam - you can see that here if you like, thanks - ruclips.net/video/r5i3ZlAIMG8/видео.html
Great video, my hat size is actually between sizes and because of your video I am able to wear my fitted hats that were too small for me. I just got my hat stretcher today, and the steaming idea is great. Thank you for the great video😁
That's cool, I'm sure you will dial in the right fit. Thanks for the note and good luck!
I got into collecting new era Jaguars hats, and I've been looking for advice just like this. Your voice is also very calming, if that makes sense. Thank you!
Hey thanks man, appreciate that - I do try to keep it steady while narrating, and this was one of my first posted videos... tons more like this at my channel, so if you're collecting I think you'll find some good stuff!
My cap collection/oversized noggin cannot thank you enough man! Cheers from another 616'er!
Right on, that’s what I like to hear!
Thanks for all your information and tips. I just watched this video and stretched my Pirate hat for a perfect fit. As you have said in the past, the sizes vary quite a bit. I wear a 7 1/4 and when I order one it's like buying a box of chocolates. I've been a baseball cap fanatic since the 50s when I was a kid. In those days you couldn't buy a cap that the players actually wore on the field. All I could ever find were stupid cheap caps with no crown and cardboard visors.
You are welcome, thank you for the comments, glad it has worked out for you!
Thank you so much for that awesome tutorial. 5950's are my favorite caps, but the variation in same numbered sizes always made it difficult to be consistent. This was such a huge help. I just saved a too tight cap and it now fit's perfectly!
Really good to hear, I'm glad it helped out - thanks!
Thank you! I used this video to form a hat that my mom got me for Christmas and I couldn’t be happier with the results
Really cool to hear, glad I could help out!
hey a question how long does the clamp have to be
@@pubdell3804 you could just do without the clamp and stick it INSIDE the mug, just my opinion
After watching this video i went and did the hair dryer method to all my fitted caps for a better fit and look. Worked great! Honestly don't know why I didn't try this before. I did however try the hot water trick to the crown like other videos showed and this method works a lot better. My hats off to you sir!.
Cool, good to hear. I can't claim original credit for the hair dryer technique, but I have found that it fits in well as one of these three steps for shaping caps. Thanks for the comment!
So hes basically the Hat Whisperer?!
LOL
IMO, the 59FIFTY has the best shape of all, as far as the crown is concerned. I like to curve the brim just a bit and the best way i found was to break the brim a little bit by hand first(just like you did in the video), put the hat on and press the 2 edges of the brim(where the brim meets the bottom crown) towards your temple. Apply some steam(careful) to relax the brim and hold still until it's dry. The brim will relax afterwards and you'll get a nice and almost like natural curve.
Um so Ive been avoiding new era and sticking with 47 Brand as their styles diminish because New era didn't fit my head and this is great. I will say their new low profile 59fiftys take a lot of this work out
Dude, lifelong cap wearer, so many good tips here, cap life skills, I just thought they fitted or didnt lol! loads easier than reshaping your head (I've tried)
Glad you found it, six years of videos for cap fans, I am happy to help out - thank you!
This guy are a cap surgeon, phd in cap structure 😎
The hat jack is a great idea since many of these fitted hat usually don’t fit and this way you can custom fit, like buying not hem pants and later hem to your liking,
wow, why couldn't I figured out it earlier? o_O this is what I nedded for many years!! love the low crown cap that wore (rappers especially) int the 90's.
thanks to you good man. greetings from Ukraine!
Cool, man - that's what I like to hear! Greetings to you as well, thanks for watching!
dre in the 616
yesterday I watched one riveting video ruclips.net/video/UOiRwHWx7tg/видео.html
none knows where to buy this equipment. guess, it would be interesting to you as well.
This is the best tutorial I've ever seen
wanna come to say thank you so much for these method , i did it today and it's work very very well
Another fantastic video. You are doing an invaluable service for your fellow hat enthusiasts. I very sincere thank you.
Cool, man - thanks for the comment
Now this guy knows how to make a tutorials
I got a big ass head. Funny lumpy big head. And i grow my hair out so nobody sees my cranium. And this WORKED like a charm. My new era Nats 2017 playoff hat fits perfectly. Thank you sir!
Awesome, man, thanks for the comment - I'm happy to hear it worked out well for you.
Your a hero to people with huge heads.... ty u kindly sir
Best tutorial I could find and made the process so much simpler. Thanks!
Right on, glad I could help! Thanks for the comment.
I always wore mine in the shower to break it in. After the shower I would attach a cup to curve the bill. Works great
I just received a wool/Made in USA SD cap in the mail yesterday. I am going to buy the Hat Jack and follow your instructions for fitting your cap. Appreciate the tutorial!
Cool, man - good luck on getting the right fit for you
@@dreinthe616 Thanks, man.
I believe you said in another video that New Era went polyester in 2007. If so, I assume that it's impossible to get a Toronto Blue Jays cap (current logo) in wool? I've found a couple of them on eBay that are made in USA but they are both poly with that hideous black undervisor.
Yes, might be a tough combo (wool and current logo) to get. I'd say just try and keep an eye on different collections that come out, I've been surprised that some are in wool.
This is the best hat channel on RUclips !
Thanks for your support!
I curve brims by placing the brim inside a cup or mug, with no heat.
Awesome tutorial! Ordered my hat jack today. Hopefully I'll be able to stretch my hats to perfection. Thanks.
Sure, thanks for the note, and best of luck with the stretching!
Where did you get the hat jack at?
This was great news. I too am a "long head". I used to use water, spaghetti squash and a web belt to make corrections. I don't buy those "little rascal" flat billed caps because they remind me of street urchins during the depression. They alway look like your wearing hats way too big for your head. Can't say I will never buy one now 'cause now I have better corrective surgery knowledge to bend the hats to my will.
Cool, glad I could help out, thanks.
You are a hat GOD! I have same head and got some probs with same issues. Thank you for this tutorial, greetings form Europe Latvia! ;)
Awesome, greetings to you as well! Thanks for the comment, and I'm glad I could help out with your cap fit.
Best can hat channel, you have saved me with this hat Jack for 7 1\2 to fight 7 5\8 to big
Cool, glad I can help!
those other tutorials are flashy but not as informative and to the point. Thanks for the video. i bought two new era hats online that were limited release in my conventional 7 1/8 but they were tight as hell. i couldn’t return them because they sold out and a limited run. For som reason new era fitted hats that are not baseball (in this case Lakers hats) fit me small even in equivalent size.
Thanks again!
For sure, lots of variation in NE caps - that's one of the reasons I started making all my videos... I'm glad it helped out, thanks for your comments!
Great advice and videos, Thank you! I was wondering, do you think it would be possible to streatch a New Era hat from
7- 7 1/2" or 7 5/8" ?
Thanks for the question...you can only safely expect to stretch by 1/8 of a size, sometimes 1/4 if you leave the cap on the jack and repeat the process over a couple of days. I don't see any way to go from a 7 all the way to 7-1/2 without wrecking the cap in some way.
Thanks for this, Doug!!! I come across the high crown issue often because I mail order my New Eras (Online styles are mostly cooler than what's at the local Lids). No way to know what you're buying til you've waited a few days for delivery. Then if you love it, you don't wanna go through the exchange process. My new challenge is shrinking acrylic snapbacks and trucker hats. I can't do ovens and dryer hacks because I'm afraid the plastics will melt. Any help you can provide there would be greatly appreciated.
Hey, wish I had a little more expertise in that area... but I have not worked a lot with those cap types. You have it right that the softening or melt temperature is the most important thing to consider. I think acrylic and polypropylene are a little higher temps, while nylon is a little lower. Maybe you have one you wouldn't miss if you used it for experimenting? Good luck!
Hey Doug thanks a lot for your advice, My hats look great now, I like my cap like you like yours so it makes it easy. Thanks
Cool, Brian, glad it's working for you.
best hat care video on the internet
I’m gonna try this the problem with me is my face shape is narrow but kinda wide but you are a savior
Cool, man - best of luck and thank you.
Can't wait to try this! Awesome thank you!
Sure thing, stretching is essential on most of my caps bc of my head shape, hope you find it valuable too, thanks.
Wait, do you buy your hats a size small and stretch them ? Or do you by your normal size ? I normally wear. 7 1/4 but i find that on some of them the sides flare out a bit. Would i want to use the hat jack or would i just want to do the method of spraying it with water and using a hair dryer to slightly shrink the hat
I usually buy 7-1/2, and that's my normal size - but I use the hat jack to get a more oval shape to match my head shape. If you're getting bowing at the sides, I'd maybe try picking up a "small" size hat jack (for your 7-1/4 normal) and elongating the hat shape a little bit. Or even try a 7-1/8 cap (one size smaller) and stretch it with the hat jack. Lots of size variation in caps, and it's easier to stretch than shrink. You could also do this - ruclips.net/video/yG9rcE7UuVI/видео.html - to take out the extra space. Lots of options, good luck!
They make low profile and curved bill already done in the box. So that’s good
Rather than an oversize coffee mug - maybe a 2cup measuring cup might work. Doug should get a job with MLB because the finished product looks great!
That's not a bad idea - anything a little bigger might give the radius you like. I experimented with an empty quart paint can from the hardware store too. Thanks for the comment, I appreciate it!
Just found your channel. Very informative and helpful. Thank you!
Best tutorial yet!! For the hat jack should I get a medium size 7 1/8 - 7 1/2 if I am a 7 1/2 in the 5950 caps? Keep up the great & helpful tutorials, hope to see you review the new "PROLIGHT" version would be very cool. Thanks alot
Yes, I am a 7-1/2 and that's the size that I bought. There is enough expansion room in the threads to go well beyond 7-1/2, and that size also supports the "Long Oval" head shape that I mention. Just remember that you can repeat the procedure if you don't get enough shaping or stretch the first time. Thanks for the comment, and I do plan to post a review of the Prolight caps within the next week or so, as Spring Training gets rolling!
... and when referring to "threads" below I meant the mechanical screw threads in the hat jack - they will keep going past 7-1/2 if you buy that size of Hat Jack.
Appreciate the info will be looking forward to seeing the review. thanks
I did just post my review for the 2018 Prolight caps... you can find it at ruclips.net/video/bFJfVyz-9v8/видео.html Thanks!
Actually I just figured out that 7 5/8 is the next size up so I'm gonna try that out thanks for the vid btw
Alright, cool... hope it works out well for you, thanks
Hey Doug, here's a bit of a curve ball... I tried stretching two of my 5950 caps and two odd problems arose. So one cap has a sheen appliquéd coating it and now that has cracks in it. The second cap's issue is that the steam wrinkled the buckram to the point where is seems to have permanent grooves. For the first cap someone suggested applying KIWI Camp Dry to re-coat it, and for the second I've tried steaming it more carefully while either pulling on it from both ends or inserting a small soccer ball while applying more steam -I'm even considering using an iron. Please note, I'm sure these mistakes are all mine and has nothing to do with your stellar demonstration -as this was the first time trying to do this and I probably was to aggressive. Like you I own many caps, but still I hate to discard these because l feel something can be done to bring'em back from the dead. Thanks for hearing me out!
You have mentioned a couple of techniques that I show in videos already, so I would check those out if you have not seen them - Fixing Dents and Creases ( ruclips.net/video/4-q4ufu5M6w/видео.html ) and Using a Form to Round ( ruclips.net/video/03SATQZRHnw/видео.html ). For sure, it is important to limit the steam exposure, because those plastic fibers in the buckram can start to buckle and deform relatively quickly under intense heat. As far as the coating on the other cap, I've not really done any kind of coatings on a fitted - only waxed some canvas boots before. I would think that any kind of coating would take away the ability of the cap to breathe? Anyway, good luck with the repairs, thanks for the question.
@@dreinthe616 Thanks for always be so helpful! FYI, that fist cap came coated from New Era. It's pretty special 'cause I've never seen another like it -which is why I'm trying so hard to bring it back. Hope you have a great weekend friend!
Does your shaping method also work on 59fiftys made from polyester, since those are supposed to be heat resistant? Great video!
Yes! I have stretched their Polyester "NuWool" caps many times, and talk about it a little bit in my "Material Comparison" video. A lot of it has to do with the fact that the sizing band on the inside is plastic, so the heat allows that to stretch without breaking, while the steam helps with the fabric. The Polyester caps do have a tendency to draw back a little bit over time, but you can repeat the process if you feel them getting tight again. Thanks for watching!
Very helpful videos on your channel. Thumbs up!!
Got a cap in my size 7 1/8. I Did your shaping technique with the hat jack and with a Philips steam n go. It works out. Unfortunately, the cap is a lil bit too loose now at the sides at the sizing now. I think I just stretched and shaped it a little bit too much. I also feel, that the four backpanels got a little bit tighter and there is less room than it was before cause I steamed the wrinkles out the cap, too.
Doug, what kind of techniques I could use to make the sizing smaller and avoid to shrink the panels more?
Thank you
I did a newer video with these basic techniques - ruclips.net/video/B3lDzEmtyx0/видео.html - you should check that out and consider buying a bump cap insert to hold shape with the back four panels when shaping/stretching. I'd say don't worry about a little overstretching, time and wear usually corrects that - but you could always steam it with no hat jack or inserts, and it should contract a little bit, thanks.
maybe I missed it- do you by your hats one size smaller when you going to stretch them?
No, I am a normal 7-1/2 and most of the time I go with that - really you are just changing the shape of the cap. Sometimes I'll stretch a 7-3/8, because that one might have been the best one that I tried on in the store. It's easier to stretch than shrink, for sure!
When you take the hat jack stretcher off the hat it starts to gradually go back to its original size. That's cranking down on the hat jack as much as it will go also so you only get about 30 minutes before the hat is tight on your head again..
That is not true, based on my experience stretching 25-30 caps. If you steam it, then expand (and repeat if needed) - then let it sit for a few hours, you have added size and shape to the cap. Over six months or so I may have to refresh the polyester caps a bit, but mine generally stay the way I have shaped them.
Hi doug, I'm just search anything about New Era Caps then youtube put me here. I wanted to tell you, your videos in your channel was so cool man. Very entertaining and lots of good idea for Baseball cap lover like me. But when I saw this video this trick, I wanted to try it on my caps that have many wrinkles on it. Is this applicable on any baseball cap brand? Materials etc. Your response much appreciated man! One love.
Hey, thanks for the great comments. You should go straight to my channel, where you can find my video on Smoothing the Wrinkles in Baseball Caps - ruclips.net/video/KEp8IpuQVf8/видео.html Steam works really well for this, and maybe you'll need to stuff a towel or something inside when you steam it. Watch the video and give it a try, good luck!
Thank you that thing with steam helped me :)
No sweat, you are welcome. Thanks for commenting.
I never understood why the shape of the fitted caps that baseball players wear are so much better than the ones in stores. They are the same 59fifty, aren't they?
Two answers... since 2019 the players caps are still made in the USA, while consumer caps are made by contract manufacturers in a few regions of the world. Second, the store caps are basically fresh out of the factory, and allow you to break them in... as there's almost certainly a lot of breaking in that happens with the players behind the scenes, and also likely a dedicated New Era rep that frequently provides caps to the team.
DUDE you're the man thank you so much
Right on, glad I could help - thanks!
my man still showing this to fitted family! are you by chance in 5950 New era fitted hat society or Team fitted on facebook????
Hey John, thanks! Unfortunately I am not a member of either one, since I've never had a Facebook account. Of the two, FHS definitely looks the most promising, so I would plan to join if/when I ever sign up for FB!
dre in the 616 please let me know . Would love to invite you to the group fhs!!
How do we stretch a Velcro strap baseball hat? I can’t find any information on how to stretch a Velcro hat. Thanks
Great video! You stated getting a hat stretcher that is a little bit lower than my hat size. Is that to avoid over stretching the hat? I know you stated you wear a 71/2 hat so your stretcher is a 7 1/8 to a 7 1/2 but getting a stretcher that goes to your hat size will it provide room to open the hat up more? Sorry if my question is crazy but I want to make sure I get the right size and not damage my hat by over stretching it. Thanks for your help
Actually I recommend that because I have a long oval head shape, and I believe the blocks get wider as you get a larger hat jack. I have a narrow head, and I've got another video where I shaved off a bit of the sides of the wood blocks to customize it a bit more. Overstretching is something you'll have to watch for on your own, because the turnbuckle still has thread to keep going, but you'll know when you're starting to go too far. You can repeat the process 2-3 times if you'd rather "sneak up" on the right amount of stretch, thanks.
Nice vid, good information👍
Hey Doug, I found a fitted that I was interested in purchasing that’s a 7 1/4 but I’m usually a 7 1/2, do you think I can stretch it enough so it’d comfortably fit? Or would that be difficult to achieve.
Usually I only expect to expand by 1/8 of a size - to get 1/4 you have to go really far, and it just never seems great for the cap, it can get really distorted in my experience. And you might still never get a comfortable fit.
@@dreinthe616 What about shrinking a 7 3/4 to a 7 1/2?? Is it possible without warping?
I need myself a jack,,, good job man!!!👍🏻
excellent video! thank you very much for taking the time.
What else could I use as an alternative to a hat jack?
Can the hat jack also be used to reshape it back before the front got mangled and out of shape?
Dude, you are six years behind, this was my first video ever. You can see my channel videos page for more recent topics, including shaping the crown, and video #1 of a new compact series - ruclips.net/video/B3lDzEmtyx0/видео.html - no smart-arsed comments necessary.
@@dreinthe616 so f off then f face
@@dreinthe616 then take your outdated crap down and no smart ass comments are necessary from you ah.
@@mr.henderson3395 alright, cool, have a great day.
@@mr.henderson3395 I'll take it under advisement, but a lot of people have gotten benefit from watching it, so I'm inclined to leave it alone.
Really good content as usual. I really like the style of the og 59fifty. I bought a 59fifty 7 7/8 but its a bit to loose. Is it possible to shrink or should i buy a smaller size instead and expand it 😁?
I almost always believe it's easier to stretch than to shrink. If it's only a small amount too loose, then you can try a technique from one of my shrinking videos. Thanks!
@@dreinthe616 Its just a little bit loose. Not that much 😁
Thanks for this video. Ever try stretching a memory fit hat? Any way to do that?
Have never tried it, so unfortunately I don't really have an opinion to offer. Steam and blocking (like the hat stretcher does for a portion of the cap) are long-time tools of hat makers, so I don't think you can really go wrong with trying them - even if you go slow to measure the effects. Thanks.
Disculpe de pura casualidad será que aquí en Colombia también puedo conseguir esas mismas gorras que usted tiene y muestra hay mismo en los videos ?
¿Te refieres a los equipos y logos? La mayoría de mis gorras son gorras de campo de los equipos de la MLB o provienen de colecciones de diferentes diseños. No estoy seguro si las mismas colecciones se venden en otras regiones.
Very helpful homeboy
very good video! I have a 24 inch head been buying 7 5/8 hat.... they are so inconsistent with sizing! Hopefully this helps.
Hey, thanks man... you are correct about the inconsistency, I made a recent video about that topic too - ruclips.net/video/aeZ0olFQQyc/видео.html - if you are interested.
Hey dude I have a quick question does the retro crown fit hats fit the same as the low profiles? I wear 7 1/4 in regular but 7 3/8 in low profile. I’m about to buy a retro crown and wondering if you have any experience with those. Thanks 🤝
Great tutorial! I am about to buy a hat stretcher. Any suggestion on the brand and size I need to buy to be able to stretch caps for a 7-7 1/8 fit?
You're going to want to get the 'small' hat jack. There's enough room in the threads to go past 7-1/8, so you should be fine with that. There's no real difference in brand, as there's a lot of outfits that just stamp their logo on one block. Thanks
Thanks for this, Doug! I guess this has already been asked before but I couldn't find the answer:
Can you also stretch and a shape a New Era Diamond Era hat the way you show it? Or does it not work due to maybe different material of the Diamond Era hats?
Thanks in advance!
Yes, I've done the same thing with Diamond Era many times, thanks.
Very informative 🧢📈
Can't thank you enough for your channel man! I've use these methods on all 25 of my 59Fifty Low Profile on-field caps. I am having trouble getting the head shape to stick though. Is that normal? It doesn't return to the way it started by any means. But it does tend to start to bow a little at the ears. Could I be doing something wrong?
No, I've experienced that also - the shaping effects can fade over time. You can repeat the process with the hat jack, and maybe crank a little past where you think you need to... then leave it on the jack overnight. That will make the changes more durable. And be sure to store your caps in the open position (i.e. don't fold them in like they are at the store).
Very good tutorial!
I've got a new New Era snapback (made from 100% polyester) I really like, but oddly enough (because I've never had an issue with snapbacks) it won't fit right as is. The size I normally wear is a bit too big -so the hat drops down & presses against my ears. The next size down is so tight it left a mark and my forehead and was quite uncomfortable. My question is... can you tweak snapbacks like you do fitted caps, and if so to what extent? I want to be somewhat careful to not loosen the plastic snap in the back. Would it be more sensible to go from the bigger size down or in your opinion try to enlarge a size up? Also, I have found your video very helpful and easy to follow. Thank you for doing such a great job and for responding to our questions.
Thanks for the question, and I have to be honest that I don't have much experience working with snapbacks. I think the best thing you might be able to do is start at the smaller size with the snap adjust, then get it on the hat jack and steam and slightly expand it as shown in this video. That might get it to a bit longer, more narrow shape that can prevent the forehead pressure. On fitteds there is a plastic "sizing" band inside the sweatband that can stretch with heat, but I'm not sure if that is used in snapbacks. I'd say just try it and go a little bit at a time, good luck.
One additional idea I came across today was replacing the plastic strap in the back with a leather one that's more adjustable to my size. I'll try your method, and if that doesn't work simply switch out with the plastic for leather. Also, I've been told it's probably a good idea to remove all stickers before applying any kind off heat or moisture. Thank you again for the prompt and useful advice.
Ever try shaping an Ebbets Field cap? I steam and put my bill in a coffee mug for an entire day and it only held its curve for an hour.
No, but maybe in the fall I will review one. Could also be a different substrate in the visor on those caps.
I want to wear my 39 thirty backwards but it just looks stupid because it folds inwards
What's the name with the closed caps so you can't do a size I don't know it
Does the hat stay stretched, or does it go back to its old size?
It stays stretched for a while, but sometimes I need to give it a refresh - sometimes 3-5 months later depending on how often you wear and/or sweat in it.
Is it possible to easily stretching the cap without the hat jack? I have just received my first 5950 and I would like to shape it a little bit. Thanks!
I'd recommend checking out this video - ruclips.net/video/6FOY-MES6xg/видео.html - where I shape my cap and break it in without using a hat jack. If you need to stretch it at all, there really isn't a good substitute for a hat jack... thanks for the question.
Hey, just done this last night, it worked. My low profile hat doesn't pinch anymore. However, how long does the stretch last before you have to do it again?
It varies depending on how often you wear and/or sweat in it, and the amount of stretch you put in to start with. Personally I only need to refresh every 6-9 months or so, but I rotate wearing a lot of hats so it's sometimes tough to tell. Sometimes you can leave it on the jack overnight, then steam and stretch a little bit more, that will definitely make it longer-lasting if you like. Thanks!
I don't buy alot of fitted 5950 caps, but I usually try on a cap at the store, bend it a little, and if it feels good, I'll buy it. I perfer my cap with a slight curve, but over time curve the bill a little more. By then, my hat feels a bigger than the initial purchase, when trying on. Would you recommend buying a size down? Like a little snug and using a hat jack to get an "in between" size?
Yes, curving the visor changes the perimeter shape of the cap, and the fit usually changes as a result. I always grab a stack of caps and find one that is a little snug because I know that the hat jack can shape and stretch. I suspect that a lot of people end up with the wrong size, because that flat visor distorts the shape, and my shrinking videos are very popular!
@@dreinthe616 thanks for the response! I think I will try buying a snug hat for my next purchase and invest in a hat jack. I'll have to experiment with the jack, to get get the best fit, I don't wanna feel like I'm throwing away money on fitteds.
Hi, do you know the diameter of the mug that you use? Also great vid. I had 1 out 4 of hat that I perfectly shaped using my hands, but now I think it will improve more from watching this vid. ty
It's just a little less than 4", or close to 95mm. I sometimes use an empty quart paint can from the hardware store, and that's a little bigger diameter. It will be very curved if you use these, but it can be opened up with a little flexing, and it relaxes over time. Thanks!
dre in the 616 Thank you👍🏼
i cant find a hat jack in my country :( do you have any recommendation as to what i can use as a substitute ? thanks . great videos btw
Hey, thanks... and the only thing I could think of would be a workbench vise - if you could add some wood or other blocks to the top of the vise that would move with it as you crank open the vise.
Sorry if this has been answered before but is there any way getting a 7 1/8 to a 7 3/8 I would really appreciate the help and wanted to see if its possible I got my cousin a hat and im not sure if it will fit him
No, that's too far to go... you should look through the videos tab on my channel, and also check out my recent FAQ video - ruclips.net/video/pvWdhpJ7Rg0/видео.html - 1/8 of a size is about the best you can expect.
This definitely works, but I used the Hat Jack and stretched my hat too much! Is there a way to undue the damage/shrink this back?
Yes, I had that happen a couple of times. I have been able to reduce size a bit by getting a spray bottle, putting a good amount of water on the six panels of the cap (but not the visor), then heating with a hair dryer. I've done it a few times in a row to recover the fit. The other thing you can do is spray those six panels and toss it in the dryer for a bit, but you have to be careful with the visor/bill. Both polyester and wool caps should shrink a little bit with heat, and they will hopefully also pull in the plastic sizing (band) that is also in the sweatband. Time and wearing it helps too. Good luck!
where can i get this killer one ? or are all hat jacks the same
Doug what kind of quick grip do u use? Is it a 6 inch grip?
Actually I don't know the official size, but the diameter of the mug here is close to 4", so you need a decent clamp width... I also have a video on three ways to curve your visor - and only one method requires the Quik-Grip. I mostly steam and then hand-shape my visors these days, thanks.
I'm a 7 1/2 aswell but have worn some 3/8 which is the next size up from the 1/2 or 3/8 thanks
Hi
Great video and thats the perfect shape we always want
I m about to get a cap that i really wanted from time along but its 7 (im size 7 1/8 ) you really think i can stretch bigger? And the most important i m thinking about the fact that the hat could seem very small in my head
And nobody wants that
Hope you can answer
Yes, for sure... +1/8 of a size is usually ok. It might look a little narrow, but I've only had trouble with that once or twice. Thanks.
Thank a lot
Any tips for keeping the brim from getting too soft ? From the steam
When the visor gets soft and 'fatigued' it's usually from bending it a lot, especially bending it cold. Older cardboard visors would also have trouble with excessive moisture, which is why I never soak them in water when cleaning. For the steam, you really shouldn't have too much trouble if you only hold it in the steam for a few seconds. Heating it then bending it - and letting it cool down in the intended shape is the key part of the process, thanks.
@@dreinthe616 thank you for clearing that up for me 🙏 I usually just spray starch on the brim if it ever gets too soft
Doug. Stephen in Canada.
The discrepancies in the Low Pro and 5950 in general are disappointing. I've bought a few low-price that fit true to size at 7 1/4 and found a Red Sox that fit good at 7 3/8.
Recently got a Dodgers low-pro and tried it on in store and it felt good, after two years it's tight, leaves a big mark after wear, worn it twice. Do the Hat Jack's work very well? I could buy one one EBay or buy a new cap. Contacted Lids.ca, no receipt, tags no refund.
Really like your videos.
Hey thanks... yes, absolutely you should invest in a hat jack. Sometimes it comes in handy to 'refresh' a cap that I have not worn in a while... they do tend to draw in a little over time, especially when you've stretched them or broken them in earlier. The few low profiles I've tried have been true to size for me, but New Era caps are of course notorious for variation.
@@dreinthe616 thanks for your reply Doug. My hat jack is on the way from Ebay at $50 (25 price/25 shipping) ouch. But as you said, a sound investment considering what we pay as collectors. Love the videos. Looking forward to the rev5of your new A's cap!
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