Based on another option I learned about in the Landsknect group, I bought this 18" straw hat from Michael's to use for the brim after cutting the top off and discarding.
I cut 2 circles of wool 1" diameter larger than the brim. I made slits approximately every inch around the circumference to help with the shape. Backstitch around the edge to connect top and bottom layers of wool.
Similar to prototype 1, I made a craft paper pattern to plan the cut out pattern and transferred to wool with chalk. Clipped red silk to green wool before stab stitching together.
I used an embroidery hoop to keep the fabrics together and stable while stab stitching around the apple cutouts to add connection in center and not just the edge.
I once again used pleats to match the size of the crown to the opening in the brim. Added 2 24" lucet ties when stitching the black wool bias trim. Straw hat was much easier on my hands and required less effort to sew through.
Used awl to make holes in shaft of ostrich feathers for sewing onto brim.
Materials
18" straw hat (Michael's floral section)
1 yard green wool (Burnley and Trowbridge wool broadcloth)
14" circle red silk (Silk Baron taffeta)
Ostrich and Peacock feathers (Lamplighter Feathers)