CORSETS HISTORICAL PATTERNS AND TECHNIQUES

Progressing through almost two centuries of corset-making, this fascinatingcollection showcases an astonishing range of period pieces, from the 1750whale-boned corsets, through the invention of the sewing machine andmass-produced corsets of the 1850s to the makeshift corsets of World War I.Reflecting the changing fashions and attitudes of women throughout thecenturies, the collection includes corsets for pregnancy, riding corsetsfor sportswomen and hard-wearing corsets for housemaids. There are evencorsets for small children and their dolls. The book is packed withpractical information on how to recreate these stunning period pieces foryourself. Each corset features an annotated pattern, a detailed drawing andclose-up photography so any historical detail can be captured accurately bythe maker. A brief overview places the corset within its historical contextand explains any features or alterations necessary for making up thepatterns. For those new to dressmaking there are two step-by-step projectsa?? one for a hand-stitched, pre-1850 corset and one for a post-1850 corsetmade using the sewing machine. There is also invaluable advice on a rangeof corset-making techniques, from cutting and fitting the patterns toadding historical detail. Information on lacing the corsets, insertingeyelets, gussets and split busks and on stitching and flossing is allincluded.