Can someone who knows costume design possibly help answer a question?

Question:

Can someone who knows costume design possibly help answer a question?

I need to figure out how to make a hat--specifically, an Artful Dodger hat. So I'm thinking kind of a squashed-looking top hat. I have a sewing machine but am a beginner at using it (good thing the hat is supposed to look banged-up!) It's the design and assembly that have me stumped. I suppose you'd need a circle with the middle cut out for the brim, then a rectangle sewed into a cylinder above that, then a circle for the top. But how can I measure the pieces correctly and put them together? And how do I make it stand up?? Any suggestions for me?

I'd be willing to buy one instead (in fact I'd probably rather do that) if I could find one that looked right and didn't cost very much, but that seems unlikely. Is it worthwhile seeing whether any theater companies have old costume pieces to sell?

Thanks for any and all suggestions!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I think some research is necessary - there are plenty of online "how-to" sites for making special things.

However - I think the best bet is to visit the shops where the production has been done before and get that piece from them. Oliver! is a popular play and the beat up top hat is mandatory.

break a leg!