Waterproof Hats

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 32, 8 February 1937, Page 11

Waterproof Hats

NEW FABRIC PRODUCED. LONDON, Jan. 16. Waterproof paper hats are promised as the next fashion for headwear. A Scottish firm, after ten years of research, has produced by a secret process a fabric evolved from the samo basis aa certain strong manilia papers. In, appearance it resembles ordinary glazed paper, and its more durable qualities are not suspected until it is handled. It is impervious to waU-, and will stand any amount of rubbing, and even scrubbing. Tho 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 tho 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, tuffso, calico, morocco, pebble, crocodile, antique, and doeskin. It may be used for bats, shoo uppers, belts, haudbags, curtains and book covers. Attractive hats of nicely-blended colours arc made by cutting the material into thin strips, about an 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 timos before it will break down. Tho price at which it will be offered to the jiublic has not yet been decided, but it is believed that it will be inexpensive.