Making a 1840s Corset
Today's patreon exclusive video details the process of making an 1840's corset - it's actually my second attempt at this corset pattern! It still isn't perfect, but it's much much better, and will be serving as the base for quite a few upcoming projects!
I realized when looking at the worn footage that it wasn't pulled up high enough, and is hitting awkwardly on the chest. But it still provides a good idea of the fit!
I can also lace it much tighter by looping the ties around my waist to preserve tension, and tying it off at the front. Which is what I usually do. But the pressure from the ties around the waist of the corset can cause it to wear down at that point over time, or bend the bones. So it's not encouraged - which is why I didn't show it laced that way in this video! But as someone who has to lace my own corsets and is almost incapable of tying a bow behind my back, it's a god-tier method.
I hope you are all doing well! I had a few deadlines hanging over me, and a family emergency a couple weeks back. And I obviously did a pretty crap job of balancing those with producing regular content - but I'm back to filming now and will have a lot to share soon!
Comments (7)
oh I forgot to tell you you answered one of my questions and sent me to a website thank you. I think they’re going to get me in trouble. Lots of goodies. Again thank you.
Do not cut holes for your grommets. Use a hall to make holes in your fabric. It separates the thread without cutting a whole In Your fabric. You will have much much less trouble with your grommets. If you want a tighter fit at the top of your corset don’t use bias cut it on straight grain. Remember in olden times fabric was very valuable. Cutting on straight grain with a more economical. Just a suggestion..
You made me laugh thank you. You were so cute
Very nice! I've run into problems with using the wrong fashion fabric on corsets, too - and it's the grommets that will get you every time. Did the pattern not call for twill tape along the inside waist? That usually helps a bit with the shaping and durability.
I really love it. It looks fabulous, and the fit is so much improved. BTW I just finished a corset with a silk fashion fabric and all I can say is never again...it frayed so much and was such a pain to work with right up until it was bound. If I could do it over again I would have picked a linen/silk blend - still would have frayed but not nearly as bad as the silk. Just in case anyone else out there is thinking of attempting this.
I had to remove snaps yesterday. My jewelry making hobby and inevitable metal closure removal ensures the proper tool for the job. I love the home spun too bad the weave isn’t doesn’t work well with metal grommets. 😕
Much respect on your recovery from the eyelets setback. I've had to pry out ONE eyelet before and it wasn't easy. You pried them ALL out and then hand stitched them.