Wearing History paper pattern Victory Hats

original product information by Wearing History

This pattern is based on an original historic pattern for women’s hats of the World War Two era.  Included in this pattern are both a factory worker’s hat, which wraps around the back of the head and ties at the top of the head to keep hair safely out of the way (View I), and a cute tilt cap with a patriotic flair (View II).  The factory worker’s hat in View I may be cut from a 25″ x 25″ or larger bandana or kerchief or regular fabric widths.  Instructions are also included for creating the looped trim and covered hat pins as seen in View II.  View II can also be decorated with purchased brooches or flowers.

Of special note regarding sizing and fit-  although the original pattern this was based on was size “one size fits all”, in the 1940s were different than today.  When I sewed and fit my samples, I found that this would best fit size 21″-22″ head, though larger head sizes can be accomidated with some alterations, especially for View I, which will need more length to tie on top of the head if your head size is larger than 22″ or if you have a lot of hair to cover.  Because these factors, a mock up is highly suggested before cutting into your fashion fabrics.

This pattern includes updated instructions with my hand drawn illustrations and extra notes that were not included with the original period pattern which will aid you in construction.  Also included are cutting charts for modern 45″ fabric widths.

The construction of View I is recommended intermediate sewing skill level.  The construction of View II is simplistic and could be done with a beginning to beginning intermediate skill level.  You should be familiar with cutting bias strips for fashion fabric for the looped trim, but instruction about constructing the trim is included.

Yardage Requirements

Style I- Cap 25″ x 25” square or larger kerchief or 3/4 yard of 45″ wide fabric For either material you will also need 1/3 yard of interfacing or hymo

Style II- Without Loop Self Trim 1/3 yard of 45” Material Style II- With Loop Self Trim 1/2 yard of 45” Material For Both Versions of Style II Also Purchase (Optional) Lining 1/3 yard of 45″ material Hat Band- 7/8 yard of 3/4″ wide grosgrain ribbon

Sewing Notions Matching thread, For Style II: 2 hat pins. For Style II hat decorations: novelty brooches, or flowers (optional).

Other optional sewing tools

Vintage Sewing Book for Sewing Help; Loop Turner; Pinking Shears or Alternate Method of Finishing Seams.

Fabric Suggestions View I: Printed or Solid Cottons; Lightweight Denim; 25” x 25” or Larger Bandana or Kerchief. View II: Taffeta; Velvet or Velveteen; Cordoroy; Printed or Solid Cottons. For Lining- Silk, Rayon, Acetate, or Cotton Lining Material.

Fabrics with a Nap will need Additional Yardage

Sample information:  The sample for View I was made in a lightweight blue denim with medium weight hymo interfacing for the visor and cap band.  Please note that the tails of this hat were lengthened 1 1/2″ longer than the actual pattern piece.  A guide line for where to add length is given on the pattern piece.  The sample for View II was made from a cotton blend gingham with a medium weight cotton for lining.  The samples are shown to give ideas of what you can make with this sewing pattern.  You will recieve a paper home sewing pattern when you purchase this item, not a finished hat.