Corset

[helwen]

I really need to learn to read the pattern instructions/information well ahead of a project...

The corset calls for something called a busk, which I thought was a one piece thing kind of like a bone folder, but in this case at least it appears to be a two-part thing, one side having holes and the other buttons/pegs that go through them. And of course I want to make it now, not a week or two from now. Fortunately, I have hook and eye tape -- the which I can no longer find in stores, but I have a little left in stock.

Then I'm reading up on the half-oval reed that I have, and the recommendations for using this material are for up to early 19th c, and I'm doing a late 19th c corset. I'm not really sure what the difference in support needs is -- can I just put more than one piece in each slot to make it stiffer? Seems like that would work, since the reed is thinner than the metal stays some folks use. I have a vague recollection of being told I could do this...

At least I have the duck canvas that the pattern called for :P Amazing how I can have all this sewing stuff and still not have all the right things!

Well, it will be a pretty simple corset, as it won't be worn on the outside. Hm.... three weeks and lots of sewing to do -- be interesting to see how much gets done!

Comments

[rtropeano.livejournal.com]

I have looked at a number of sites looking for the busk and stays. What I keep running across is that I can buy a finished corset for only a little more than buying the pieces and trying to make it myself. Ariel and Rosemary each bought one this summer. The busk is really important to providing the shape, and being able to get in and out of the thing. I bought a pattern as well and discovered that the hook and eye tape gapped and buckled something fierce. I used some velcro along it to create a smooth seam.

[helwen.livejournal.com]

I've thought about buying a corset, but likely they would be a little too long for me, at my size. I've cut an inch off the pattern so that it will fit.

On the hook and eye tape, the tape part has a channel, so after sewing it on I ran reed through it.

Right now I'm trying to find my grommet gun...