The methods that will be discussed are some of the most common and easiest ways to shave and shape a military beret. It can take one to two days to complete the entire procedure. You’ll need to take some time to let the hat dry after shaping. One thing that you need to make sure of before undergoing the process is making sure that you have the right size. Remember that the material can stretch once you dunk it in water. If the beret you have comes with a liner, remove it by cutting it out. Not all berets come with liners so take it out before starting. Lastly, don’t forget the razor and warm water. Shaving the Beret Start by using a disposable razor and shave starting from the center towards the outer edge. Make sure that you’re shaving in a circular motion until you get a smooth surface. If you want to try, you can use a cigarette lighter to burn some of the fuzzy material. Make sure that you don’t shave a certain spot many times. This can thin the material out and can create holes. Flip the beret inside out and shave the inner part as well. By this time, the razor can become dull so you might need to change. It is more dangerous to use a dull blade since it can accidentally cut the material. Cut and Fit the Beret Cut the tag below the beret size lettering. You’ll know that you did it right when you put your beret on and the tag does not show even if you flip it over. After, pull the drawstring tight in the headband and tie it in a square knot. Shaping the Beret To shape, dunk the beret in warm water. Never use hot water or else it will shrink the wool. Once it’s damp and bendable place it on your head. If it is dripping, wring it out a bit. Then, adjust the beret to get a proper fit. Adjust the cardboard stiffener and center it over the left eye. Then flatten the material over your head. Fold the excess material to the forward right side of your head. Then, tug it down towards your right ear. It should slightly reach your ear or below it. Wear the beret for a while until it begins to dry to keep it in shape. Then carefully remove it and set it aside to completely dry. You might probably need to shape it a few times until you get the perfect shape. Once you’re satisfied with the look, cut the excess drawstring and sew it. Tips in getting the best-looking beret shape: Usually, many head sizes don’t fit the military-issued beret. You may need to get one commercially instead. Make sure that you shave the inside of the beret unless you’re okay with pulling out fuzzy materials off your hair. If your beret is fairly big, shrink it by soaking it in hot water.