How Do You Make A Corset Dress Step By Step?
1. Start by gathering the necessary supplies, which include fabric, an iron-on interfacing, pins, a sewing machine, bias tape or ribbon for trim and elastic cord.
2. Lay out your fabric and cut two panels - one for the back and one for the front of the corset dress. Make sure both pieces are exactly the same size with identical curved edges at the top of each piece that will join together at either side of neckline of the finished product.
3. Sew along both sides of each panel using a straight stitch about 1/8 inch from edge to create channels to insert boning (the stiffer plastic strips). This creates structure and allows shaping into curves when worn; make sure all four seams are sewn carefully as these form an important foundation for your final garment. Then sew elastic cord through each channel in order to secure it in place.
Contents:
Gathering Materials
Gathering the right materials for a corset dress is just as important as following the instructions precisely. Sewers will need to obtain a pattern, fabric, boning, and matching thread in order to complete their design.
A paper pattern should be purchased specifically designed for a corset dress. Pattern makers can provide insight into what types of fabrics are best suited for your desired silhouette. Those making an underbust style may want to purchase additional material for the shoulder straps if the chosen pattern does not have them included.
Proper boning is also essential to providing stability and shape to your garment. Plastic boning is generally cheaper than steel but has been known to break more easily; however, it can easily be replaced after wear or time consuming repositioning of pleats or bones has occurred. Steel bones will last longer but require more intricate techniques in placement than plastic bones do due to their rigidity and size inconsistency between brands. Matching thread should also be purchased so that all visible stitches flow cohesively with the fabric used in construction - creating an overall professional look and feel of quality craftsmanship when you slip it on.
Preparing the Fabric
In order to craft a stunning corset dress, it is essential to properly prepare the fabric that will be used. The most suitable material for this type of garment is cotton or a blend that contains some cotton components such as poly-cotton. If the dress has pleats, then an extra durable fabric like leather or denim may be better suited for it due to its strength and durability.
Once you've settled on your fabric choice, it’s time to measure and cut out the pieces of cloth required for construction. To do this correctly, use a measuring tape to accurately calculate how much material you'll need in terms of length and width according to your desired fit. It's important not to underestimate so that there's enough room for fitting alterations at later stages in the process. Also note that any patterned fabrics should have their patterns facing inwards when they are laid out on the floor; this ensures perfect symmetry when it comes time to stitch them together.
Ensure all edges are prepped by giving them a hem with an overlocker or serger machine before moving onto assembling the final product. If you don't have access to one of these machines then using pinking shears works just as well - simply turn up your raw edges twice, press flat and cut off any excess fabric along each edge before pressing again into place with an ironing board and steam iron. This neatens everything up prior to stitching so that no fraying can occur during handling once assembled later on down the line.
Cutting and Sewing Layers
Once you have all of your materials and tools ready to go, it's time to start cutting out the corset dress. This requires taking careful measurements and creating patterns to ensure a proper fit. Start by measuring around the bust, waist, hips, and torso. Record these measurements on a piece of paper or cardstock for later use. After this is completed, select the type of fabric that you would like to use as your base layer and cut out two pieces based on the measurements taken earlier.
Once you have two pieces of fabric cutout, it's time to begin assembling them together into a single corset dress shape. To do so, place one of the cut-out pieces with its right side facing up onto a flat surface before placing the other piece overtop with its wrong side facing up. Pin in place then carefully sew along each side until both layers are connected at all four corners; be sure to leave an opening at one end for insertion of laces or ribbons later on down the line.
The next step in making a corset dress involves adding another layer onto what has already been sewn together; repeat the same process from above but this time with thicker fabrics such as coutil or brocade depending upon your desired level of stiffness for finished product. Continue until there are as many layers needed - usually at least three - then proceed by sewing together each individual layer just like before until everything is fastened securely in place; don’t forget to create openings every once in awhile for inserting laces or ribbons.
Adding Support Structures
In order to create a corset dress that flatters your figure and stands up to wear, it’s necessary to add support structures. The bones of the garment are the main component in this part of construction. Whether you choose plastic boning or steel boning depends on personal preference. Plastic boning is less expensive but often does not last as long, while steel boning is more durable but pricier. Some sewers prefer spiral steel boning which enables the corset dress to have more flex without losing shape or structural support. When positioning your bones, make sure they run down the center back, then overlap at each end with a slight curve at the waistline for extra comfort and style.
If desired, another type of internal structure you can use are stays - small pieces of either plastic or metal reinforcements sewn inside the fabric along seams for extra rigidity. If placed correctly in areas such as between straps and at side panels around hip area these will provide additional stability and ensure that your dress won't collapse when worn for long periods of time or heavily loaded with decorations such as beads and sequins.
Finally, don't forget about grommets used to join laces together - these should be evenly spaced throughout the entire length of the corset dress for smooth closure over full bust area. You also may want to consider choosing decorative grommet sets rather than plain ones if you're going for an upscale look.
Finishing Touches
Finishing touches are an essential part of crafting a corset dress. To give your unique garment a professional look, it is important to consider the small details that will bring everything together.
First and foremost, you should think about how you want to decorate the dress with embroidery or beading. A few carefully placed accents can make your work really stand out. You could stitch on ornamental designs such as flowers or geometric shapes along the bottom of the hemline for a fanciful flair. If you're feeling more daring, you can add sparkling beads in bright colors around the top to catch the light when walking down the runway or street.
Make sure that all edges are trimmed neatly so no raw ends poke through after wearing multiple times. Sew over loose ends with fabric glue and double stitch them for extra security. This added touch will ensure your dress stays intact each time it's worn without any fraying at the seams. After all these steps are completed, you'll have created a one-of-a-kind corset gown.
Styling Your Creation
For those looking to complete the ensemble of their corset dress, styling will be a key component. A great way to make an otherwise simple dress come alive is by adding layers and accessories. To create unique looks for both special occasions or everyday wear, here are some tips for accentuating the look of your corset dress:
One fun element can be added with color blocking. Layering different hues together creates a bold yet chic silhouette. Choose colors that complement each other, like soft blues with pink pastels or any combination of neutrals. Adding another dimension in texture can also bring depth to the design–mix velvets and cotton for a textural contrast.
Incorporating interesting accents such as jewelry can take any ensemble up a notch as well. From chandelier earrings to brooches and necklaces, details like these can really elevate the overall look of the outfit while showing off personal style. For more subdued vibes, consider tonal pieces made from glass beads or pearls –they tend to draw attention without overpowering the rest of the apparel. Don’t forget about shoes when it comes time to tie everything together; think mules if aiming for an understated vibe or platforms if you want something more dramatic.
Want to learn more? See: How do I tighten my own corset?