Chèvre goatskin
Eight-strand braided leather hat band
Detailed hand-braiding with a classic Western look, available in several leather shades.
View on Etsy ↗Handmade leather · Western hat accessories
Handmade braided leather hat bands for cowboy and Western hats
A braided leather hat band adds texture, character and a personal touch to a favorite hat.
LeatherByPeter makes adjustable hand-braided leather hat bands in different patterns, materials, colors and finishes. This guide helps you choose a style that suits your hat with a simple adjustable fit.
What is a braided leather hat band?
A braided leather hat band is a decorative accessory worn around the base of a hat's crown, above the brim. Unlike a cowboy hat chin strap or stampede string, it is mainly used to change the look of a hat rather than to keep it on your head.
Different braiding techniques create different widths, textures and patterns. A narrow band gives a subtle finish, while a wider, more elaborate braid can become a distinctive feature of a cowboy or Western hat.
Real handmade work
Explore four LeatherByPeter braided hat bands
These photographs show actual LeatherByPeter products. Select a design to see available colors and details on Etsy.
Whiskey brown
Handwoven whiskey-brown leather hat band
A warm leather tone with pronounced braided texture and knot detailing.
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Artisan braid
Hand-braided Western leather hat band
An understated design that highlights the handmade braid and its finishing details.
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Decorative metal beads
Black braided hat band with metal accents
Black leather braiding with a choice of gold- or silver-colored decorative beads.
View on Etsy ↗How to choose a braided leather hat band
Choose the braid
The number of strands and the braiding pattern influence the finished look. Four-strand and eight-strand constructions can give very different textures, and the width of each leather strand also matters. Choose a subtle braid for a quiet accent or a more intricate one for a bolder Western style.
Choose the color
A dark band on a lighter hat creates contrast; similar shades can make the braid look more understated. Black, dark brown and whiskey-colored leather each give a different character, while two-tone combinations can emphasize the pattern.
Choose the leather
LeatherByPeter works with different leathers, including Chèvre goatskin, cowhide, calfskin and kangaroo leather, depending on the design. The individual Etsy listing shows the material and color options for that particular hat band.
Look at the finishing details
Knotted ends, tassels, leather finishing work and decorative metal beads all affect the style. The best choice is the one that suits your hat and your personal taste.
How to put a braided leather hat band on your hat
Place the band around the base of the crown, just above the brim. Position the decorative part where you want it, then use the band’s adjustable construction to achieve the look you prefer. All LeatherByPeter hat bands are adjustable.
How to adjust your braided leather hat band
Watch this step-by-step demonstration of how to loosen the interlocking braided loops, adjust the band to fit your hat, and slide the decorative beads back into place. The video also shows how the fitted hat band stays in position.
See the braid in a short video
Watch a real LeatherByPeter braided leather hat band in this short video.
Frequently asked questions about braided leather hat bands
What is the purpose of a hat band?
A hat band is mainly used to decorate a hat and give it a distinctive appearance. Braided leather hat bands add texture, color and traditional Western character without changing the hat itself.
Can you put a braided leather hat band on any cowboy hat?
A braided leather hat band can be worn on many cowboy and Western hats. Check the shape of the crown and any existing decorative band before adding another one. All LeatherByPeter hat bands are adjustable.
Will a LeatherByPeter hat band fit my hat?
All LeatherByPeter hat bands are adjustable, allowing you to position and adjust the band directly on your hat.
What is the difference between four-strand and eight-strand braiding?
They use different constructions and can create different braid textures and visual effects. The finished appearance also depends on the pattern and the leather strands.
Can I choose another color?
Different colors and combinations are available depending on the design. Check the individual Etsy listing, or contact LeatherByPeter with a specific idea.
Can a braided hat band replace the original band?
It depends on how the original band is attached. Some bands are removable, while others are sewn or glued to the hat. Check the original attachment before attempting to remove it.
Is a braided hat band the same as a stampede string?
No. A hat band decorates the outside of the crown. A stampede string or cowboy hat chin strap hangs beneath the chin to help keep a hat secure in the wind. Read our stampede string guide if you are looking for that accessory instead.
Can I request a different finishing detail?
LeatherByPeter can discuss particular colors or finishing details. Contact us through Etsy with your preferences before ordering.
Explore more handmade leather accessories
Browse the complete LeatherByPeter Etsy shop for additional hat bands, stampede strings and other handmade leather goods.
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