HAT MANUFACTURE. 



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When examined under a high-power of the microscope, these fibre 

 hairs show a similar structure to those of hare fur. These fibres are 

 certainly worth some further enquiry, as to whether they could not be 

 used in the manufacture of felt hats, or for some similar purpose. 



Hare (Lepus timidus). The downy covering of the hare is much 

 prized by hat manufacturers for its felting properties, and ranks as a good 

 fur fibre. 



Fig. 145 is a pelt or membrane from the belly part of the animal, 

 showing the attachment of the fibres. The longest, which form the 

 outer and attractive covering, are thicker than those underneath, but the 

 latter possess superior felting properties. 



Fig. 145. Pelt of Hare. 



Fig. 146 shows a portion of the pelt magnified, with the fibres attached 

 to the membrane. 



When these " hare fur " fibres are examined under the microscope with 

 a one-sixth objective they appear cylindrical, and have a thick, spiral, scale- 

 like marking with transverse striations, upon which the felting property 

 much depends. In a general way these fur fibres, when seen under the 

 microscope, resemble a miniature Westinghouse brake. Both hare and 

 rabbit felt with fur attached are used in glove-making for warmth during 

 winter wear. They serve as a good edging for gloves and articles of 

 wearing apparel for children, etc. 



Jaguar. These fibres are similar to those of the Buffalo, but are 



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