WATER-PROOF HATS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23108, 6 February 1937, Page 23

WATER-PROOF HATS

NEW FABRIC PRODUCED AFTER TEN YEARS' RESEARCH Water-proof paper hats are promised as the next fashion for headwear (says an air mail message from London). A Scottish firm, after 10 years of research, has produced by a secret process, a fabric evolved from the same basis as certain strong manilla papers. In appearance it resembles ordinary glazed paper, and its more durable qualities are not suspected until it is handled. It is impervious to water and will stand any amount of rubbing, and even .scrubbing. The material, which has been given the trade name of Linson Fabric, was shown at British Industries House this week, and attracted immediate attention. At the moment it has not yet been placed upon the market, but its popularity seems assured from the moment it is distributed to wholesalers. The fabric is produced in many colours, and in several qualities —glazed linen, canvas, tusso, calico, morocco, pebble, crocodile, antique, and doeskin. It may be used for hats, shoe uppers, belts, handbags, curtains, and book covers. Attractive hats of nicely-blended colours are made by cutting the material into thin strips, about one-eighth of an inch wide and then weaving or plaiting them. Already the Ministry of Transport has adopted the fabric as a covering for driving licences. Tests have shown that it may be folded 300,000 times before it will break down. The price at which it will be offered to the public has not yet been decided, Mit it is believed that it will be inexpensive.