How Do I Make An Edwardian Corset?
1. To make an Edwardian corset, you will need to have the right materials and pattern. Begin by gathering supplies such as fabric for the outer shell, boning material (typically flexible plastic), lacing, thread, a zipper or busk closures, and eyelets. Once your supplies are gathered, obtain a pattern that corresponds to an Edwardian style of corset. Lay out the pieces on your fabric according to the pattern instructions and mark with pins or tailor's chalk. Cut out all pieces including any facings necessary for covering seams.
2. Sew all pieces together following the pattern directions - use small stitches if possible since these will be covered up later on with bias tape or ribbon binding in most cases. Next add boning into each seam allowance using hand stitching or sewing machine stitch-in-the-ditch technique where appropriate; other methods include bone casing/tunnels which require additional fabric strips cut from your main garment piece fabric for insertion of bones once placed within channels along seam lines. Finally insert a zipper or busk closure at center front depending on what is preferred as per design choice before putting bias tape or ribbon around edges to cover raw seams and finish off look of garment properly.
3. The final step involves adding eyelets along both sides for lacing up back of garment when finished – secure this in place using either metal pliers and screwdriver tool provided in packages purchased from craft stores or specialized tools made specifically for this purpose if desired; ensure these are placed equidistant apart so it’s even throughout length of garment when laced closed at back. Once complete, try on fit before wearing publicly so adjustments can be made where needed accordingly if desired before showing off new Edwardian corset ensemble proudly.
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Gather Materials for Edwardian Corset
Creating an Edwardian corset can be quite a complex process, but having the right materials is key. To begin with, you'll need fabric for your corset that is light-weight and flexible. Cotton or cotton-linen blends are great options to consider due to their durability. It's also important to remember that the waistline of your Edwardian corset should fit comfortably against your skin without binding or poking you when it's complete.
For the lining, you may want to opt for either silk or satin as these fabrics provide a nice sheen and luxurious feel on the inside while being breathable enough for extended periods of wear. If you're looking for additional support in your corset then linen boning tape would be an excellent choice for providing extra reinforcement as well as shaping capability. You could also choose metal busks which are adjustable steel clasps that act like hinges along one side of the bodice closure; this type of closure will ensure that both front and back panels are securely fastened together at all times.
Look into getting high quality thread that won't break easily - ideally 100% nylon thread - along with rivets or grommets depending on how you plan on finishing off all edges before beginning construction. Of course, don't forget any embellishments such as ribbon lacing, ribbon roses, lace trimming and appliqué designs - these elements will truly bring your unique Edwardian corset masterpiece alive.
Measure Body to Ensure Proper Fit
To properly fit an edwardian corset to one's body, one must first take measurements. Start by wrapping a measuring tape around the ribcage, just below your bustline and above your waistline. Make sure to record the measurement, as this is what you'll use when selecting the size of your corset. Measurement should be done several times over, to ensure accuracy before noting it down.
It is also important to measure your bust line while wearing some type of supportive undergarment such as a bra or bodice liner. Place the measuring tape at the fullest part of your bust (typically at its peak) in order to determine cup size accurately. Write this number down too as it will also factor into selecting a well-fitting corset design and pattern.
Assess the length that you need for the correct fit according to where exactly on your torso you'd like for it to sit and record these figures as well. When all measurements are taken correctly and noted down accordingly, one can go ahead with designing their own edwardian corset tailored perfectly their unique shape.
Cut & Sew Fabric for Base of Corset
Creating an edwardian corset can be a complicated task, but with the right materials and techniques it is possible to create an heirloom quality piece. The first step of creating your own edwardian corset involves cutting and sewing the fabric for the base of the garment.
When shopping for fabric, choose one that is sturdy such as cotton twill or denim yet still has some elasticity to provide support when worn - sateen or silk taffeta fabrics are ideal choices here. When determining the amount of fabric you’ll need, use a soft tape measure and record measurements of where you want your corset to fit on your body along with how high or low you want it to come up onto your back and sides. Once these measurements have been taken, multiply them by two and cut enough pieces from the chosen fabric in order to make up two fronts, two backs, four gores (to form an hourglass shape), two bridge pieces (these go between each side of front panel) plus additional strips for binding around edges.
Sewing all the pieces together is simpler than it sounds; start at one end and work around until all sections are complete, then join front panels together through vertical seams at both sides using 1/2 inch seam allowance. Hemmed french seams will offer more robustness while also providing neat inside finishes for any visible areas when wearing as well as helping strengthen bulkier parts like under arm area. Remember when stitching binding strips across top edges always tack multiple times if needed for extra strength before running several rows through machine close together whilst stretching material slightly - this will help secure in place over time without breaking threads easily which could otherwise prove difficult since this type of garment requires repeated wear over months or years depending on desired effect desired.
Add Boning and Eyelets for Support
Adding boning and eyelets for support is an important step to making an Edwardian corset. Boning, or stiff material such as steel, whalebone or plastic can be inserted in vertical seams of the corset to create a snug fit around the body while maintaining a desired shape. The boning should be connected with eyelets – small metal pieces that are sewn onto the fabric – using thread and needle so that it can move and adjust when necessary. For best results, each seam should have two strips of boning placed one on top of the other before sewing them together with the eyelet.
The use of boning and eyelets gives Edwardian corsets added strength and flexibility to hold their form even after prolonged wear or during movement. Due to their unique construction, they also help evenly distribute pressure around the waistline for increased comfort during wear. These structures make sure that the corset won't lose its proper form over time without any maintenance or alteration from stretching out or sagging due to wear.
Attaching a busk – a rigid piece which covers front panel closures – could further enhance both support and convenience by allowing for easier fastening/unfastening while preventing unnecessary shifting along chest area during regular activities like sitting down/standing up or moving around more quickly. Installing this element correctly will increase wearing comfort significantly by reducing strain on back muscles while providing stable foundation for corset overall structure.
Decorate with Lace, Bows and Embellishments
For the finishing touches, lace, bows and other embellishments can add a beautiful and unique touch to an Edwardian corset. Silk ribbon is ideal for creating dainty ties around the bodice of the corset or providing a narrow base along which lacing can be applied. To create elegant visual interest, use embroidered lace with decorative stitching. Look for French Chantilly lacework featuring floral motifs and ornate design elements. Decorating the edges of the corset with trim such as galloon lace or insertion will provide an additional element that truly stands out against velvet fabric, especially when trimmed in satin threading. For those wanting to make their corset really pop, metal rivets are easily attachable to provide intricate decoration while staying true to period-inspired fashion. Finishing off an Edwardian corset with these types of creative accents will ensure it looks timelessly fashionable from season to season.
Final Fitting and Adjustments
Once you have completed the construction of your Edwardian corset, it's time to turn your attention to proper fitting. To get the correct fit and shape you'll want to make sure all areas are pulled snugly, using bone casings if desired. You should also be aware of certain points along the waistline where your corset may need adjustment in order for it to lay flat and smooth against your body.
The two most important factors in ensuring a good fitting corset are lacing tension and boning structure. When it comes to lacing, you should ensure that the distance between your corset pieces is consistent throughout and that no gaps appear when doing up the eyelets or crossing over with the tie strings. This will ensure maximum support while wearing and can help prevent any uncomfortable pulling or pinching from occurring during wear.
For boning structure, you'll want to pay special attention to adding bones at various intervals across each side seam of your corset - usually around an inch apart - as this creates a supportive framework within which to create a contoured silhouette. Make sure each bone has been properly secured on both sides through either boning channels or bone casing before being sewn into place. These steps can help ensure that you achieve a secure fit every time.
See also: How do I style a corset with a dress?