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Construction of a Corset

 

Fit to be Tied corsets are the finest quality of materials and workmanship. We use two to three layers of fabric.

The lining is always the highest quality cotton Coutil for superior strength and durability, in either white or black.

As each corset is custom made the choice of fabric for the outer shell is only limited by your imagination. (And what I can find!)

Once the style and fabric is chosen I start with custom drafting the pattern to your exact measurements.

This Corset is fashioned of red chinese silk. The first step is to assemble the panels. The seams are stitched with four threads to ensure superior strength. Wouldn't want the seams to split!

This is the exterior view of the panels as they are constructed.

The lining on this corset is black. At this point we have four pieces. Left and Right exterior shell and lining.

Next step is to insert the central 'busk'. The busk is a series of knobs and loops attached to two straight bones made of plastic coated steel.

This is what allows you in and out!

When inserted the busk almost disappears, leaving very small knobs and the loops.

Now the bottom edge is finished off and the corset is ready for the boning channels. The placement of the boning channel depends on the size and style of corset.

I use two different types of bones.The regular bones are 6mm wide plastic coated steel. They will bend a bit back and forth but retain their shape. Not like the plastic bones found in commercially available corsets that bend when warmed by your body taking on a permanent and unpleasant kink. These bones will last a lifetime.

Spiral bones are much more flexible. Think of a tight spring bent on it's side. These bones have great flexibility back and forth and side to side, but will not compress. I use these bones around curves and when making a corset of increased flexibility like the Mantua styles.

When the bones are inserted and the top finished off, we're ready to set the two rows of grommets in black or white into the fabric. The fabric is not punched, but the fibers gently parted so the grommets will not pull out and tear the fabric.

There are a variety of lacings to chose from. Ribbon, cotton cording or even leather.

All done. Your Fit to be Tied corset is ready to wear!

Lacing your Corset How it's made Other Questions