Hat makers may do some or all of the following:

• design hats
• discuss client's requirements and take measurements for made-to-order hats and head wear
• draw and cut out hat patterns, using pattern paper
• lay the pattern onto the material
• cut out the pieces, following the pattern outlines and sew the pieces together
• mould felt, fabric or straw bodies over hat blocks
• wire the edge of the brim
• attach ribbons, labels or other such items to hats
• sew trims such as flowers and feathers onto the hat.

Hat makers may specialise in one aspect of hat making if they work in a factory.