Yesterday was the last day of the first Blocking Felt course that was held at Portobello Institute, Dublin. Here are some photographs of the great work completed by my students. It is hard to imagine that this level of work was completed by students with no previous millinery training, I’m very proud of them.
Chic black fur felt hat blocked on a vintage wooden hat block and adorned with dyed pheasant & goose feathers, a handmade silk dupion rose and vintage silk veiling.

Student’s first silk rose! Made using silk dupion and flower irons.

Side view.

A cute felt percher bowler hat trimmed with petersham ribbons and a miniature prime ostrich plume.

View from the back.

Close-up.

Navy peachbloom fur felt hat made on a vintage wooden puzzle hat block and trimmed with pumpkin and ivory fur felt. Strong colour combination.

Side view.

Clever use of felt for trimming.

We will be holding a range of millinery courses so if you are interested in participating please contact the college directly www.portobelloinstitute.ie Places are limited (+353) (0) 1 8920000. www.AoifeKirwanMillinery.com