What Can You Use For Boning In A Corset?
Traditionally, steel boning is used for corsetry. It is a rigid material that provides shape to the garment as well as support for certain areas of the body such as the abdomen and chest. The steel allows flexibility while also maintaining its original form, which prevents bunching up or other deformations during wear. Steel boning is available in different widths, lengths and thicknesses depending on what type of design you are looking for and how much structure you need. Plastic or synthetic whalebone can be used in place of steel boning. This type of material is more lightweight than steel but still provides firmness and support for those areas requiring additional structure from their corset.
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Types of Boning
Whether you’re making a bespoke corset, mending an old one or refurbishing a vintage find, there are many types of boning to choose from when constructing the piece. The most common type is steel boning, due to its strength and rigidity which helps keep the corset secure while still allowing some movement. It’s also widely available in multiple shapes – such as spiral bones for support with flexible curves or flat bones – and sizes so that it will match your project perfectly.
Plastic bone can work in much the same way but is often used to create lighter and more comfort-focused garments due to its malleable properties. Sometimes even a combination of both materials can be employed where stiffness is needed but flexibility would be welcome too; like around bustlines or contours. It’s important to note that although plastic bone won't break during wear, unlike steel ones, they have been known to fatigue over time which means that they may need replacing once they become brittle after too many washings.
Other interesting options include reeds (sometimes referred to as rattails) which consist of sewn cords inside channels along the length of the garment and offer an extra comfortable structure without taking up much visual space - great for vintage pieces. Ribbon can also be used in certain circumstances since its semi-rigid nature allows designers more control over body shaping than pliable fabrics alone could provide. Whalebone strips are shaped whale ribs intended primarily for use on tightly-fitted bodices but not dissimilar from how other materials can be arranged when fashioning a historically accurate corset construction.
Benefits of Boning
When it comes to corsets, boning is often an essential component. Boning gives structure and support to a garment, providing the desired shape for the wearer. Even more importantly, it can help keep garments in place and provide additional security while wearing them. With that being said, there are several benefits of using boning in corsets.
One benefit of boning is that it allows the corset to have a tailored fit. By inserting stiff strips into a garment's seams or pockets, you can ensure that your design will fit just right no matter what size or body type you are designing for. The bones also help give extra support and definition around curves so that each piece will look its best when worn by any individual without having to worry about fitting issues.
Another advantage of using boning in corsets is that it provides strength while maintaining flexibility and comfortability for the wearer. Not only does this feature prevent damage due to stretching over time but also helps absorb shock from movement as well as strain from long periods of wear; both which could eventually lead to ripping or tearing fabric if left untreated on other garments not utilizing boning material properly. When placed carefully within seams and channels across certain areas where needed most, those who choose to include boning will find their pieces last longer than expected with minimal adjustments necessary along the way during their lifetime of ownership with their beloved corset pieces.
Supplies to Accompany Boning
Corsetry projects often require more than just boning to complete - there are also a range of supplies that need to accompany the boning itself. Any completed corset requires stiffener, for example, which can be used to hold the fabric in place over the bones and help create crisp lines. A sturdy needle should also accompany the project, as it is needed when stitching together fabric pieces or sewing on details such as eyelets or trimmings.
The type of thread used in corsetry construction is another essential item; strong polyester threads, including one designed specifically for corset making, are available and will ensure that the stitches hold up against pressure and wear. Unless you are using metal boning (which tend to have their own tabs already installed), you may wish to pick up some ready-made tabbing that can be applied with glue or stitch around each end of your chosen bones for extra reinforcement.
In terms of tools required during construction, other than a reliable sewing machine and its accessories (such as pins) consider items such as a hammer for knocking rivets into place, pliers for holding loops or ends while setting grommets, an awl or leather punch for creating holes through multiple layers of material plus an adjustable tape measure - always useful when checking whether seams have been aligned properly or not.
How to Insert Boning Into a Corset
Inserting boning into a corset can be an intimidating task, but with the right supplies and steps it can easily be done. To get started, you'll need to have access to plastic boning, which is more flexible than metal boning and also easier to insert. Most plastic boning comes in curved strips that make it easier to fit over the contours of your body. Once you've acquired the materials needed, there are three basic steps for inserting the boning: cutting, positioning and securing.
First off, each strip of boning needs to be cut down so it will fit within the opening provided by the corset fabric. The best way to do this is by measuring with a ruler or other straight edge as cutting too short or too long could lead to discomfort while wearing the corset. After sizing up each piece of boning according its spot on garment, simply use a pair of sharp scissors cut them down accordingly.
The next step is for positioning each piece of boning where they belong on the corset fabric panel before sewing them into place. Place each one along its designated area and mark both ends so they won't move around when stitching begins later on. Secure them onto their spots using two rows of machine or hand stitches -one at either end- this guarantees that your pieces stay put once finished. With these three steps in mind; cutting, placing and fastening; anyone who wants can now turn any corset into something worthy for all kinds of occasions.
Care and Maintenance for Boning
Proper maintenance of the boning in a corset is essential to extending its lifespan. To preserve your undergarments, there are several steps you can take after every use. It's important to start with the basics and remember that not all materials require the same treatment.
Cleaning your boning should be done by hand or on a gentle cycle with cold water. Take care when machine washing as vibrations and pressure could cause them to become damaged over time. After cleaning, hang dry your corset where it will be exposed to air flow from all sides for best results; never place it directly in direct sunlight or near any type of heat source as this can break down the fibers in your boning over time.
If required, iron on low heat - about 150-200 degrees Fahrenheit – using a damp press cloth between the fabric and the iron to avoid direct contact. Be sure not to apply too much steam or excessive pressure as this could distort the shape of your corsets outer layer and compromise fit accuracy going forward. Following these few simple steps should help keep your boning performing well for years to come.
Alternatives to Traditional Boning
When it comes to corsets, traditional boning is often used for reinforcement and support. Such boning typically consists of either steel or plastic bones that are inserted in the seams. However, not everyone wants to use these rigid materials when constructing their own garments. Fortunately, there are several excellent alternatives available which will provide comparable results without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.
One option is to use bendable reeds or canes for the boning in a corset. This type of material provides enough rigidity and structure while still offering some level of pliability along the seams. It's also lightweight enough that it won't add any additional bulk beneath clothing. The only downside to using this type of boning is that it may not last as long as other materials, but with proper care and maintenance, it should give good service over time.
Another alternative is spiral steel stays–also known as flat spring steel lacing stays–which offer more flexibility than traditional steel bones but still provide ample support along the edges of the garment. These stays are also lightweight, making them comfortable for longer periods of wear without feeling bulky under clothing. They come in various sizes so you can easily find something that fits your particular needs perfectly.
There’s flexible foam-based boning which has become increasingly popular recently due to its ability to offer superior comfort and flexibility over other types of boning material while still providing strong structural integrity at an affordable price point. This type of boning is highly adjustable too so if you need additional flexibility or support in certain areas then all you have to do is adjust accordingly.
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