The long, hot summer days we’ve all been longing for have finally arrived. But as we live in a country where it rains 133 days per year, we’re not as well-adjusted to the sun as we’d like to be. With these temperatures, SPF 50 is going over the counter about as quickly as ice cream, and we can’t be careful enough not to burn our skin. To help you keep your head cool and keep that sunstroke at bay, we’ve selected the best DIY sun hats.
1. Reversible bucket hat
Bucket hats have taken over, and we’re here for it. Fast fashion shops are selling them left, right and centre, but did you know you can also just make your own? By opting for a reversible bucket hat, you basically get two for one! Wear them to the beach, a bottomless brunch, a day in the park… your options are endless.
What you need:
- A pattern
- Sewing machine
- Two different fabrics
- Scissors
- Pins and a needle
- An iron
2. Boater hat
Nothing says summer like these hats with their strawy look. This one is a crochet version, which means you basically only need a crochet needle and the material. It also means spending quite some time using your hands, but those who’ve tried crochet before know it’s a very soothing practice. And even though you’ve finally regained your social life after months of lockdown, we’re all still getting adjusted to our once again busy schedules and could do with some me-time in between.
What you need:
- Raffia
- Crochet needle
- Ring to determine the shape of the hat – this can be any hard material
3. Sun visors
Okay, we’ll admit, not technically a hat… But boy, do we love that little breeze on the top of our heads on hot summer days. It’s a quick fix that takes little time and an easy way to repurpose an old baseball cap or trucker hat. And the best part is: no hat-hair! For this one, no sewing is required. But of course, if you want your visor to look a bit more refined you can opt to neatly sew the edges and maybe even pimp it with some new fabrics.
What you need:
- An old baseball cap or trucker hat
- Scissors
- Safety pins
4. Beach hat
The good old beach hat, what a classic. You might still not be able to go on that well-deserved summer holiday abroad this year, but with this hat, even England’s beaches can feel like the Spanish costa. We can just imagine ourselves sitting there: toes in the water and piña colada in hand. Next train to Brighton anyone?
What you need:
- A sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
- Fabrics (two different ones to make it reversible)
- Pattern
5. Crochet bucket hat
Another crochet hat: this one is made from yarn and gives you those ‘cool kid who can pull off that hat grandma knitted’ kind of vibes. This edgy bucket hat doesn’t just look stylish, but also makes sure you’ll get through summer unharmed.
What you need:
- A crochet needle
- Yarn
6. Disco ball bucket hat
Whether you just want to upcycle a boring old bucket hat or want to make one from scratch, with this disco ball hat you will stand out from the crowd. Haters are gonna hate when you blind everyone around you with the sun reflecting from your marvellous hat onto their faces, but who cares, right? As long as you look stunning – which in this gem you definitely will.
What you need:
- Disco ball fabric (yes, it’s a thing)
- An old bucket hat, or a DIY one
- Bucket hat pattern and tutorial (see 1)
- Sewing machine
7. The super extra sun hat
Want to have something to hide behind when you’re people-watching on the terrace while sipping your rosé? This massive sun hat has got you covered. Combine it with a pair of sunglasses and you’ll definitely get your diva on.
What you need:
- One, two, three, or even four round placemats – depending on the size you’re going for
- A sewing machine
- Razorblade or sharp knife
- Piece of cardboard