Hatters are skilled artisans who create and sell hats. They work with various materials, such as felt, straw, and fabric, to design headwear for different occasions and styles. The craft of hat-making has a long history, with hatters often specializing in specific types of hats, like fedoras or top hats. The term "mad as a hatter" originates from the 19th century when hatters were exposed to mercury while making felt, leading to health issues. This phrase is often associated with the character The Mad Hatter from Lewis Carroll's story, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, highlighting the quirky nature of hatters in popular culture.