Otter Way Fur Millinery

Why wear fur?

Susanne Pacilio, Martha Diebold Real Estate and Lea Van Winkle, Four Seasons Sotheby's International Realty

Susanne Pacilio, Martha Diebold Real Estate and Lea Van Winkle, Four Seasons Sotheby's International Realty

Fur is warm and water-resistant. Fur feels luxurious. Fur looks fabulous!

Tread lightly...

Tread lightly...

We humans are a keystone species; we are dominant, the top predator. We can and do make other species extinct. We have intelligence and therefore a responsibility. Fur bearing animals are part of the life cycle. All that lives, dies. Nature has the right to exist, maintain and regenerate its vital cycles and its processes in evolution.

Trapping is the controlled harvest of wild fur bearing animals to maintain healthy populations within the carrying capacity of the environment. Trappers conserve wildlife and preserve our outdoor heritage for future generations. Gratitude and respect are a practice of ethical trappers.

Fur is free-range, sustainable, renewable, and warmer than petroleum-based plastic and acetone derived faux fur.

 

Products & Construction

Each of my products is cut from local, legally harvested, fur pelts. The fur has simply been tanned; no dye has been added to alter the fur's natural color, nor has it been trimmed. A single pelt is tailored to the curve of the head and the fur pieces arranged so you can stroke it with the nap. A fabric lining is then sewn inside for comfort.

 
 
Skunk headband

Skunk headband

Headbands

Headbands are sized specifically to the wearer. It is designed to cover your forehead and ears and allows the crown of your head to breathe. The lining is quilted cotton backed with wool and an elastic band goes around a decorative button so it's easy to put on and off, or unbutton to accommodate a bun on the top of your head.

muffcollage.jpg

Earmuffs

Earmuffs are one size. Some prefer a quilted, cotton lining next to their ear rather than the soft fur. Each earmuff is stuffed with 7 grams of Round Barn Farm merino wool. The earmuff frames are either brown or black velvet, depending on the fur.

 
IMG_1973.jpg

Custom Pieces

This lined vest features a starburst of skunk in the back and Johnson wool front.

One pillow was crafted from leftover scraps sewn together quilt-block style, the other was the reuse of an old fur coat no longer worn.

The full hat is a favorite of balding men! Its helmet-style with a cotton lining is designed to cover your ears and forehead and is very warm. Cotton is less likely to slip off your head than the traditional silky linings you often find in fur garments. At your special request, a lining can be made out of the ever-popular plastic petroleum-based fleece, but I generally prefer natural fabrics to line the fur leathers.

 

How to Purchase

 
 
Family and friends keeping warmand looking good!

Family and friends keeping warm

and looking good!

IMG_1335.jpg

Custom Orders

The majority of my products are made to order. This allows selection of fur and lining to your preferences, as well as sizing to the wearer's head. Earmuffs are one size, but in the case of headbands and full hats, you will provide a length of ribbon that fits the wearer's head and the item will be sized to match.

Please contact me to discuss the process and to arrange your custom order.

 
displayheadbandmuffpng

Pre-made Items

I have a number of pre-made items in-stock. As the styles, furs, and linings vary and everyone's preferences differ, these are generally best seen, felt, and tried on in person. I am happy to describe and send photographs of those that might interest you or to arrange a viewing, so please don't hesitate to reach out.

 
wkshp.jpg
IMG_1047.jpg
IMG_1054.jpg

Workshops

I offer a workshop to teach you to make fur-lined, hand-sewn slippers.  Materials provided or you may use your own pelts. Cost dependent on type of fur. Within 3 hours you can have at least one completed slipper.

Please contact me to learn more or set up the time and place.