The Art of Millinery
Millinery is a meticulous craft that blends traditional techniques, high-quality materials, and expert craftsmanship.
Each piece from Raven Millinery is a labour of love, driven by passion and a commitment to creating exquisite headpieces that stand out and inspire.
Quality Materials
A solid foundation
I work with the finest materials including A-grade sinamay, parasisal straw, felt, and buckram—chosen for their versatility and durability. These natural fabrics are expertly shaped, steamed, and stiffened to create the perfect hat base and unique shapes and structures.
Every detail enhances the hat’s aesthetic, incorporating embroidered fabrics, silks, faux leather, and ethically sourced feathers, as well as luxurious silk abaca, delicate veils, and structured crinoline.
I also love pushing boundaries with unexpected materials like sequin film and balsa wood, crafting unique, handcrafted floral elements. For that perfect hint of sparkle, I select only the best—Preciosa and Swarovski crystals, plus luminous pearls—making every headpiece feel luxurious and one-of-a-kind.
Sustainability is at the heart of my work, and I’m committed to sourcing all materials ethically from trusted suppliers, ensuring that beauty and responsibility go hand in hand.
millinery process
Craftsmanship
Blocking: Every piece begins on a traditional wooden hat block. Materials are stretched, pinned and shaped by hand, then left to set. Each block is chosen or custom-made to create a precise silhouette and a balanced foundation.
Steaming: Steam is key to shaping. Applied with control, it softens fibres to allow clean, sculptural forms while maintaining structure and strength throughout the piece.
Tailoring & Decoration: Once shaped, the piece is refined through hand tailoring — cutting, sewing and wiring to perfect proportion. Trims and embellishments are sculpted and hand-sewn with careful attention to balance and movement.
New Techniques: Alongside traditional methods, I continually explore new materials and techniques, refining how pieces are built and pushing the boundaries of modern millinery.
The Fit: The final stage focuses on fit and comfort. Secure elastics, wire headbands, Alice bands and discreet combs are selected to suit each design, ensuring every piece feels lightweight, balanced and secure all day.