An Australian family run business since 2000
In 2000, Doug Osborne made a hat block for milliner Ann Kavanagh, who at the time could not find one in the shape she wanted. When others saw the block, they asked Doug if he could make them one, and so it was that word of mouth got Blocks By Design (as the business was then known) going. Over the next 11 years Doug established a reputation for service and quality. Doug's background includes a career in draughting and engineering. His design and planning skills contributed considerably to his ability when it came to working with timber. As he had no background in millinery, Ann was invaluable with her knowledge and expertise in the trade, being able to assist in the design of many blocks. Over the next 11 years they both became well known in Australian millinery circles, especially at trade events where they could both be consulted about hat blocks and how to use them.
In 2011 his son Darryll joined the business and, under his fathers training and guidance, took over the day to day running of Blocks By Design the following year. His background in automotive design, art and sculpture, including 14 years as a mould maker in statue manufacture, has contributed to his taking to wood shaping with skill and efficiency. He has continued the high standards set by Doug and works from a humble workshop in the middle of farmland in rural South Australia.
By 2013, continuing growth of the business meant that the original website, launched in 2008, was no longer sufficient to the demands being placed on it, and so Darryll asked his brother Garryck to take on the role of webmaster, and upgrade the site to something more in keeping with Darryll’s vision. Garryck continues to maintain the website to this day.
In 2015, in part due to a rapidly growing international clientele, a decision was made by Darryll, with Doug's approval, to change the business name to Hat Blocks Australia, to better reflect both what the products are, and where the business is based.
In 2016, Darryll’s wife, Renee took over the tasks of office work and shipping. This has enabled Darryll to devote more time to block making.
Whether you place an order by order-form, email, or telephone to Hat Blocks Australia, you are in direct contact with the people who will be making your hat blocks. Darryll has built a reputation as 'Mr can do', will never turn a challenge down, and will go above and beyond to meet your deadlines. We have an extensive catalogue of designs for you to choose from, or which can be modified to suit your needs.
Please note that we only carry a small number of blocks on Etsy, please visit our website for the full range: www.hatblocksaustralia.com.au
