To become a qualified hat maker you need to complete hat-making courses which are taken as part of the Advanced Diploma in Fashion Design. Those with relevant work experience in the textile industry can apply for the hat-making component only. Sewing and sketching skills are important.

There are no specific educational requirements to become a hat maker, but three years secondary education is an advantage.

Skills are gained on the job and through Apparel and Textile Industry Training Organisation courses. Many hat makers also learn on a one-to-one basis with an established hat maker or can take part in a community course.

Useful experience for hat makers includes:

• experience working with a milliner
• work in the clothing industry or as a fashion designer
• handcraft work
• tailoring or dressmaking, with experience in cutting
• experience using clothing production machinery
• work as a wardrobe assistant or work in the shoe industry.

Experience serving people in a shop or working in a small business is also helpful.