Steel Boned Victorian Corsetry Making Short Course
Course description
Course overview
Designed to offer an introduction to the history of corsetry, the Steel Boned Victorian Corsetry Making Short Course guides students through the process of cutting and making a fitted calico toile and corset.
Students on this 5-day course learn how to cut and make a fitted calico toile, followed by a finished corset (made to measure or a generic size to suit). Students have the option to use their own body measurements if they would like to create their own corset.
Practical exercises include cutting a traditional corset pattern (supplied by the tutor), precision sewing and learning the key elements to corsetry for modern day wear. Students receive step by step tuition on materials, details and components during the course. There will also be an option to explore various decoration techniques towards the end of the course.
Who this course is for
This course is aimed at those with an interest in historical costume, dressmakers, contour and lingerie. It is also a great choice for anyone who would like to widen and refine their sewing skills or even start a business in the field of corsetry and contour.
Beginners / intermediate students should be confident in using a sewing machine to fully engage in the course.
Key information
Topics covered
- A brief history of corsetry
- Pattern cutting
- Sewing skills specific to corsetry
- Making a toile and finished corset
- Fitting and finishing
- Future design inspiration for corsetry and embellishing techniques
Learning outcomes
- Have refined their sewing and finishing skills including application of key components and traditional fasteners (metal busk)
- An understanding of the process of grading and altering a pattern to fit
- Refined cutting skills
- Know how to use an industrial sewing machine
- An understanding of corsetry and all components
- Have explored the process of fitting a bespoke corset on the body, as well as fastening
- Gain an informed understanding of historical costume
- Gain further design resource and inspiration
- Have knowledge of embellishment methods and ideas
- Digital badge and certificate of attendance.
Materials
- Notebook and pen
- Fabric scissors
- Ruler
- Chalk
- Tape measure
- 1m of top fabric, or an old garment to recycle (recommended silk or cotton, avoid stretch/piles fabrics)
- 1 matching thread
- Contrast fabric for boning (50cm)
- All other materials including patterns, coutil and corset components will be provided.
Tutor
Lisa Keating-Best
Lisa Keating-Best studied at Fashion and Textiles at the University of West of England and Falmouth University studying a Masters in Illustration and Communication. She has twenty years of Design experience spent in the garment industry as well as thirteen years as a Corset specialist and bridal wear designer and maker. Lisa then moved into Teaching garment construction and pattern cutting in Higher Education after running Corset Making short courses for over twelve years. She now works as a specialist Garment Technician at Central Saint Martins where she can share her knowledge and skills with the Designers of the future.
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