The hat is cottonwood, turned to just under a 1/16" thick, steamed and shaped, it has a little burl in it, several small knots and a few bark pockets. It made for an interesting piece to turn and makes the hat look old, rugged and weathered (kinda like me) ... well except for the glossy finish. I think I will tone that down some. There were a couple of knots on the brim that looked like they was going to split real bad so I took my knife and cut them out, kinda adds to the rugged look ... I think.
Its sanded to 1200 grit with a coat of golden oak danish oil, more sanding and then a coat of cherry oil and then spot sanded to bring out some of the natural color. 4 coats of wipe on poly then polished and buffed with white diamond and carnauba wax.
Comments/critques always welcome,
Shane
Edited 3/21/07: I added a hatband that is made of beads turned out of Box Elder burl.
