This message was posted by signman on AmayaUsers.com. PLEASE DO NOT REPLY VIA EMAIL. Instead, respond to the thread on the WEBSITE by clicking here: http://www.amayausers.com/boards/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?/topic/2/1302.html#000003 I couldn't resist...had to see what you were all talking about. The ottocap 83-531 is a PAPER front cap, with full buckram backing. That buckram is going to save your day-it will hold the stitching in place which would not happen on a 'real' straw hat. As for type of needle...geez, I don't know-I would think a sharp needle would cut through the paper 'pattern' and let edges pop out, maybe a ball point would do less damage. Either needle type will work okay with the buckram. Let us know how it comes out! =========================================================== The AmayaUsers Mailing List Website: http://www.amayausers.com Discussion Board: http://www.amayausers.com/boards Subscribe/Unsubscribe: http://www.amayausers.com/list ===========================================================