I ordered a custom made hat from Mr. Keltner about three years ago at the National Western Stock Show. It turned out to be the worst investment I have ever made. The sizing process went well enough. But, it went down hill from there.
After I described what I wanted my hat to look like, he asked me "Why do you want that? Get something that everyone doesn't already have!" THIS should have been a red flag for me. He agreed to make it anyway.
I got quoted for the hat and agreed to it. Months went by without a word. I had to contact him every week after that to see if it was done yet. He told me it would cost MORE than the agreed price. I agreed again. The final price was $800.00.
I received the hat in the mail, opened the box, and it was NOTHING like I wanted! It was poorly shaped on every aspect. I was lucky enough for him to spell my name right on the sweatband! I was furious! My wife convinced me to wear it. After all, we paid A LOT of money for it! So, I cut my losses.
I recently sent it to another hat maker to have it remade completely. The end results are AMAZING!!!! It's what I dreamed it should look like from the start! Unfortunately, the break-down of the hat showed just how poorly it had been made to start with. Everything from covering the short hat band with the bow, to stitching every FOURTH stitch in the sweat band was revealed.
I have been sent pictures of the entire process from the new hatters. Before, during, and after. I will NEVER recommend him to ANYONE. EVER. I should have sent it back and had it done right. But, then again. It could have taken ANOTHER YEAR!!!! Thanks for the $800 felt. It's all I paid for in the end.