135th Kentucky Derby: Make Your Own Derby Hat

The 135^th Kentucky Derby happens on May 2, 2009. Whether you are planning on attending the event in person or celebrating at home it's a day for great festivity. Nothing signifies the day more than the extravagant Derby hats donned by hoards of celebrating women.

If you have checked out the cost of buying a pre-made hat you know that it can cost a small fortune. There are endless verities and they come in all shapes and sizes but most require a second mortgage. Why should you spend a fortune on a hat you will likely wear only once a year? If you are looking to save some cash here are a few tips to make your own Derby hat that rivals those expensive ones any day.

The first thing you will want to do is gather some ideas. Google "Custom Made Derby Hats" and you will find no shortage of inspiration waiting for you. Pick a few that you want to model your hat from and print them out to refer to as you go along.

Next, gather supplies. You will, of course, need a hat as the base. It's easier to buy that than to try to start from that level of scratch. You can often find inexpensive plain options just waiting for you to accessorize them at any department store. A wide brimmed, straw hat works best. After that hit the local craft store and stock up on all of the ribbon, silk flowers, glitter, feathers, lace, etc that you will need to complete your masterpiece.

Once home heat up the hot glue gun and get to work. The best technique is to start with a wide ribbon tied in a bow around the base of the hat and attach the details from there. Keep it conservative if that is your style or go as wild as your imagination will take you. With Kentucky Derby hats there is no right or wrong so have fun with it. Once you get the hat to where you want it let it dry for at least 6 hours before trying it out.

With the hat out of the way all you need to plan is your Derby outfit. It's recommended to choose and outfit that compliments but doesn't match your hat exactly. That will give more visual impact for the creation you worked so hard on and keep the focus where it should be. Now, put on the hat and you are ready to have a great time!