I have this plastic "hat blocker" which fits neatly inside of my cap, which helps maintain its shape. But I only have one and can't find more at my local athletic supply. Does anybody have an idea what this thing is called and where I may be able to find one on-line?

Thanks
Bugg

I am not sure exactly what you are referring to as a hat blocker, but I found that the cheap plastic cap holders for washing hats works very well to maintain the shape of my hats. I get them at the local dollar store! They aren't official but the hats still look good!

After Jim Craig (I think, could have been another ASA clinician) showed me how to fold up hats, I don't bother with the plastic thingies anymore. It works very well except for the New Era hats tend to have those plastic threads break loose and poke me in the head! I have no protection on top!

I just toss my hats in with the wash, then fold up and let dry. They come out looking fine.

I think ASA properties sells the "Cap Caddies" in their catalog.

Now you have piqued my curiosity. Can you demonstrate this technique verbally on this forum, or is it something that one has to see???

I do not bother with the plastic hat blocker or any of the caddies. When I get a new hat, I will fold it to block it and then completely soak those areas. I iron the creases until the hat is dry. The creases are sharp for the life of the hat. I have not been able to do this with the mesh hats - so they do not look as good and I no longer wear them.

Sure, Watch closely as I try to 'splain it.

Push the bill up and flatten it against the part where the logo usually is. Pinch the hat to the bill and it will form a crease. Next, while holding the bill and front together, fold the back half of the hat up and over the button into a tri-folded shape. The back of the hat will be exposed, you don't turn it inside out.

It may not sound as simple as it is, but try it on an old hat and you should figure it out. When folded hats take up very little room in your bag, I think I have about 7 or so in mine. You can also put the folded hats in your pocket if you want. They really look good after unfolding, but will have that crease in front which you may or may not like.

I would post a picture of the process, but haven't a clue as how to do it. Have the camera, compooter and such, but lack in the know-how area. Maybe some of the more technologically advanced guys could post a picture.

Tom,

JEL needs you expertise in this matter. :D

Honig's use to sale a Black Plastic Hat Liner. Hat fits right over it snuggly.
Plastic is hard enough that you can use a brush with a little soap and water
get the hats (cap's) very clean. Also headgear fits snuggly enought to
maintain a good shape. The old order number was F37, but do not see it in the
current book I have.

Now you have piqued my curiosity. Can you demonstrate this technique verbally on this forum, or is it something that one has to see???

Scott, remind me next time I see you and I will show you how.

I always wash my hats in the dish washer rather than the washing machine. Just move the settings so it doesn't get too hot.

I wanna know!
I wanna know!
I wanna know, now!
Please, please, please!!!!!

You guys can explain all those rules; you certainly can explain how to fold a hat.
mick

If someone can get pics to me, I'll put them on the softball umpires web site, along with the explanation.

Glen has my email address, as does Mike, Steve M and several others. I won't post it publicly as a spam preventative.

Sounds like I use the same technique as JEL. I take a wide rubber band and put it around the hat after it is folded and can just throw them all into a bag. Always comes out looking great. Even the mesh hats.

I learned the same technique from Walt Sparks at a National School. Works very good and the hat comes out with a nice blocked crease in it. I take my new caps and
steam iron them while they are folded to set the creases.
I prefer the standard wool cap.The new style mesh caps may not work as well.
It is amazing to me that some people will take great care of the rest of their uniform and neglect washing or replacing hats. Just one of my pet peeves.

How about posting your website URL... :)