Thursday, January 31, 2013

Corset Making Supplies

Corsets flatten the torso, flatter the figure and support good posture.


Corsets are garments that were designed in the 16th century and worn under clothes to help shape the body to the clothing designs of that time. Corsets were most widely used in the 19th century when most women of all social classes wore them. Today, corsets are used in period costumes, wedding attire and lingerie as a way to minimize the female waistline and emphasize the breasts.


Pattern


You can purchase corset patterns or make your own. Before selecting a pattern, measure your bust, waist, underarm to waist length and cup size. Determine a measurement for the front of the corset. While measuring, be aware of how tight you want your corset to fit and adjust your measurements accordingly. If your corset is intended to push up the chest, wear a bra while taking your measurements.


Fabric


Corset fabric must be durable, able to stop the corset boning from poking through it and able to withstand numerous washings. If you are making a historically accurate corset, use linen, silk satin, silk taffeta or silk velvet. These materials can be difficult to find and expensive. For modern corsets, cotton duck canvas and fancy fabrics such as brocade, modern satin and shot silk are all suitable fabrics. Select strong, cotton weave corset laces.


Boning


Boning is the stiff insert that helps the corset maintain its shape. Historically, boning was made from stiffened fabric, rope or a whalebone called baleen. For a historically correct corset, you can use reeds, cane or any type of wood, such as ash, that is not very flexible or easily broken. Modern boning materials include spring steel, plastic and feather boning. Select your boning material according to how stiff you want the corset to be.


Busks


A busk is a stiff piece inserted into the front of the corset. Some busks are two separate pieces that offer a front knob and loop closure on the corset, making it easier to get the corset on and off without assistance. Front-clasping busks were used after 1860. Busks were traditionally made of wood, ivory or whalebone. Modern busk materials include spring steel and other materials used for boning.



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