Gene Baldwin is one of only about seventy custom hatmakers in the USA. He and his wife Debra retired to Sisters, Oregon in 1995. Gene, who retired from the funeral business and was spending his time breeding and showing Arabian horses, began selling Serratelli cowboy hats. A friend asked him if he intended to continue selling hats or was going to make them himself. So, he contacted a hatmaker, apprenticed with him and, in 2004, decided to make hats – the old-fashioned way.

The old-fashioned way. That’s key to Baldwin. It encompasses ideas like using antique milliners’ equipment. Listening to the customer. Using the highest quality materials that work the best and last the longest. No shortcuts. Engaging with people who use cowboy gear. Engaging with other artists. Taking the time to do it right the first time.

The only way to obtain a good-fitting custom hat is to have a good hat-fitting. And that is the only way Baldwin will take an order. If you’re in Central Oregon or will be visiting, call Baldwin for an appointment for your fitting at the shop.