Photo by: Chris Petersen
Chaz Mitchell’s journey mirrors the meticulous craftsmanship of his custom hats, shaped by the rugged landscape of a Nevada ranch and the indelible influence of his father, the renowned Cowboy poet, Waddie Mitchell.
Photo by: Chris Petersen
From his roots in Cowboy culture, Chaz pursued a career in rodeo, specializing in bronc riding through high school and college competitions. However, a fateful injury abruptly ended his rodeo dreams, leading him down a new path. Transitioning from the arena to the workshop, Chaz explored various trades before discovering his true calling in hatmaking. Chaz apprenticed under master hatter Roy Jackson, where he immersed himself in the artistry of hat craftsmanship, and got his start in the trade.
In 2013, Chaz Mitchell Custom Hatz was born. Despite early setbacks and the financial struggles that come with starting a business, Chaz remained steadfast in his pursuit. If you ask Chaz why he didn’t just give up, he will reply that in his family giving up isn’t an option. You have to have a no-quit attitude, look at the problem from a different angle, and keep trying.
Photo by: Chris Petersen
Although times were tough, Chaz stayed focused and worked hard to build his business. Through relentless hard work and fierce commitment to quality, Chaz has emerged as an elite master hatter, earning recognition for his impeccably crafted hats that reflect the timeless essence of the Western spirit. Today, Chaz Mitchell stands as a living embodiment of the values instilled in him by his upbringing: resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence.