The Hat Block Library

Dates

Saturday 11th April (Sunday 12th return option)
Saturday 23rd May (Sunday 24th return option
Saturday 27th June (Sunday 28th return option)

July–October dates to be announced.

The Hat Block Library

Join us for an immersive day at The Millinery Retreat’s Hat Block Library - a unique experience designed for experienced milliners to access a diverse range of hat blocks in a relaxed, creative setting.

You’ll work with an extensive collection of almost 700 hat blocks, including vintage, one-of-a-kind pieces and modern shapes, with access to all essential equipment including steamers, irons, blocking cords, blocking pins and hair dryers.

This is a self-guided block library experience for experienced milliners. Participants must be confident working independently, as no formal tuition is provided.

You’ll have the freedom to shape as many hats as you wish, with the option to return the following day to remove your pieces from the blocks once dry, allowing you to complete your projects in your own workspace.

Possum Ball will be on hand to offer guidance with unfamiliar block shapes as needed.

Spaces are limited to four participants per session.

What’s included

– Use of almost 700 hat blocks, including contemporary and vintage shapes
– Access to essential equipment (steamers, irons, blocking cords, blocking pins and hair dryers)
– Lunch and refreshments
– Option to return the following day to remove your blocked pieces if required

Materials

Please note no blocking materials are provided. Participants are required to bring their own selection of blocking materials, apron and closed toe shoes to be worn in studio at all times.

Pricing

$200 per person for the full-day Block Library session (10am–5pm), including lunch and refreshments. This fee also includes the option to return the following morning to remove your blocked pieces if required.

Bookings are via email, with full payment required upon confirmation.

Accommodation

On-site accommodation is available for an additional cost. The first night is $200 per room, including all meals, with additional nights offered at $100 per room. Rooms may be shared if attending with a friend.

Getting here

Charlies Creek Farm is approximately a one-hour drive from Melbourne CBD.

Hourly V/Line trains run from Southern Cross Station to Riddells Creek. Transfers to and from the station can be arranged upon request.

For those travelling from interstate, please note that airport transfers are not available. An Uber or taxi from Melbourne Airport to Charlies Creek Farm typically costs around $80.

We can assist with organising postage of your blocked pieces if luggage space is limited, please bring folded hat boxes with you. 

Bookings

Bookings via email: themillineryretreat@bigpond.com

Private Block Library sessions can be arranged, as there are no minimum numbers required. Please email to enquire about availability.