The blockmaker works in a very similar way to the “pattern-maker” of the iron and engineering trades, the main portion of his work being done by the spokeshave. Bow saws, worked either by hand or machine, cut out the ovals of the crown and the brim, and subsequent operations are carried out by means, in a few cases, of a lathe, but the major part is done by the spokeshave and chisel or gouge. In many instances the intricacy of the work carries the industry almost into the art of wood sculpture, but generally speaking the models are of a plainer nature. Mention has already been made of “one piece” and “two piece” hats. The former may have blocks made “all down,” that is with the crown fixed to the brim, which will generally be of a flat or a drooping nature. But the “one piece” in most models demands both the crown and the curler blocks, so that although the hats may be of one the blocks must be of two pieces; this obtains where the brim has an outline which rolls upwards in some place or places, from the base of the crown. “Two piece” blocks are necessary where the trend of fashion demands that the outline of the crown, especially at the base, shall be larger than the head entry then fashionable. For unlike men’s hats, the head entries of women’s hats vary according to the prevailing style of coiffure, or the outline which most appeals at the time to the public demand. Where in a “one piece” hat the top of the crown is larger than the head entry, the crown block has to be made in such a manner as to allow the block to be inserted in the hat for blocking, and to permit its easy withdrawal when the operation is completed.