the spark

My interest in corsets began about five years ago when I was thinking of making a 1950's dress pattern for a gala. That's right, a gala. I knew that era's shapely silhouette was the result of foundation garments and started researching waist cinchers, which quickly led me to corsets.

I purchased an off-the-rack Vollers corset. Right away I understood why one needs a custom fit garment. So I ordered one from Meschantes to be made to my measurements. I was disappointed when it arrived. The craftsmanship was lacking and the fit was terrible. Not good. I decided to take the plunge and sew one myself.

I should mention that at this point I had sewn only one skirt, and I had to take it to an alterations place to have the zipper put in. Undaunted, I bought Norah Waugh's book, Corsets and Crinolines, and decided the pattern on page 77 looked the easiest. I enlarged the pattern, ordered a busk and spiral steel boning, and went to work. I had no directions to follow, just a can do attitude to see me through. There were plenty of issues with that first piece, but I was determined.

That first corset was sewn not quite four years ago. I've made a few more corsets since and my skills have improved with each one.

I still haven't made the dress that sparked the quest.