I have a pattern problem

Cut all the pieces at the same level, about half way between waist and bust level: spread apart by the amount needed. Paste them down on more paper, and true up the seam lines for cutting. Have another go at the toile. With corsets, it can take several goes, so don't get discouraged if more adjustments are needed.

Dear Cindy,

The whole point of making a mockup is to get it to fit properly. It should be used to fit--cut it to raise the bust, lower it to fit on the hip where you want it, adding and subtracting bits of fabric until you're satisfied. Then, use IT as your pattern. If you happen to have one side of your body different than the other, this will be reflected in the mockup. The process is best done with a partner, as it is quite difficult to get perfect fit on one's own body.

There is no need to destroy your original pattern. And this goes for all your sewing projects--use the mockup once it fits. All professional designers do this, and sometimes the mockups are more interesting than the finished garment. Sew with the basting setting on your machine, so that it is easy to rip out.

When ripping, press the pattern pieces carefully, so as not to stretch them out of shape. Remember to place grainlines and other symbols on the mockup, so that when you place them on the fashion fabric, they will be in the correct positions.

Since this project is a corset, it wouldn't hurt to put the main bones in the mockup. I use the sew-through bones for this that comes by the yard. Baste them, of course, and when ready, give them a sharp pull, and they'll come right out again.

Teri

I am so thankful for this thread, I am planning a corset and need to get it done this month if possible, in order to get the outer garments done by mid august.

And everyone is asking me what I am going to do, since the MOG (Mother of the Groom) seems to be supposed to be coodinating her dress to mine? seems silly to me.

I've never made a corset before, but I can't wear a modern all in one garment, the elastic rolls the whole way up to the waist. about six layers of elastic rolled around my waist isn't my idea of a fun wedding. I thought I would be cut in half.

My concerns are which patterns are easiest to make, which will give me support and a smooth line, and still be comfortable. So far I think I need to use linen to make the coolest garment, but I haven't decided what to use to stiffen the corset and keep it comfortable. I don't know if cording would be best of if Spring steel would be comfortable enough.

I loved the story I found online of the (renisance) corset which someone stiffened with straw or something like that. she said it was the most comfortable one she had ever worn but it was completely covered with channels and it wasn't an over bust corset which I think is what I need. It was a straight front corset which is NOT what I need.

So I need to know if anyone has any experience with corded corsets, can you tell me how they are made? will they support the bust? Can I use a Mid Victorian corset pattern to make one? ( which is what I want) Are they covered with channels like the Renesance corset was? Or should I just suck it up and make one with spring steel? If I use linen like I want, should I just use it for the lining or for the whole thing, to keep the dampness at bay?

Thanks, Kitty