Fancy Straws
Women’s hat mid 1900s, possibly made in Italy using a straw threads and whole straw.
Women’s hat - fancy straw
This hat from the late 1940-50s is made from an elaborate straw braid of two-ply rye straw threads incorporating a flattened split straw. It is probable that this braid was made in Italy although the product, called Rädligeflecht or wheel braid originated in Switzerland in the mid 1800s. The braid is made on a toothed wheel. Instructions for making can be found in my book Swiss Straw Work, pages 122-3.
Women’s or Girl’s cap made from Swiss inspired products. Early 1900s.
Women’s cap - fancy straws
Made using a variety of Swiss products, this silk-lined cap was probably made in the early 1900s. You will notice the pattern of the Rädligeflecht differs from that used to make the previous hat. Many patterns of Rädligeflecht were produced within the industry. This cap also has a crocheted insert. The braids and crochet have been made from two-ply rye straw threads called Schnürli. Close to the brim edge are motifs made from split straw and known as Spreuer. A narrow plait called Ring has been threaded with Schnürli and is used to decorate the edge of the cap.
Women’s or Girl’s cap probably made in Italy, first half of the 1900s.
Women’s cap - fancy straws
Sadly this cap, from the first half of the 1900s, is in poor condition, perhaps due to having been worn whilst unlined. It is a shame because when new it would have been glorious. This cap may have been made in Italy as it incorporates both the wheel braid and a loom-woven braid known in Switzerland as a bordure. Silk forms the warp of the bordure and fine whole straws form the weft. Strangely and perhaps indicating a later date of manufacture, the back of the cap is finished with a crocheted motif worked with a man-made fibre.