Victorian Corset Making

Corset construction is a vital skill as a costume maker.

On this 5 day course students will make a full corset, from the late victorian period. From block and pattern drafting to finishing. Anyone who doesn’t finish will leave with all the materials needed to finish.

  • Day 1:

    - Introduction to Corset Making: Brief history and evolution of corsets, including different styles and purposes.

    - Understanding Corset Anatomy: Exploring the different components of a corset, such as busks, boning, eyelets, and lacing.

    - Fabric Selection: Guidance on suitable fabrics for corset making, considering factors like strength, flexibility, and comfort.

    - Taking Measurements: Techniques for accurate measurement-taking

    - Drafting a corset block

    - Adapting a pattern from the block

    Day 2-4:

    - Cutting and Marking: Techniques for cutting the fabric and marking the pattern pieces accurately.

    - Boning Channels : Step-by-step instructions for creating boning channels and inserting bones.

    - Boning: Types of boning materials, including steel, spiral steel, and synthetic options. Techniques for inserting and securing boning channels.

    - Eyelets: Instruction on setting eyelets for lacing.

    - Fitting and Adjustments: Guidance on fitting the corset on the client and making necessary adjustments for a perfect fit.

    Day 5:

    - Finishing Techniques: techniques for finishing the corset, including binding, topstitching, and adding decorative elements.

    - Lacing and Final Touches: Instruction on lacing the corset properly and adding any final embellishments or closures.

    - Anyone who finishes the corset with time to spare will have the opportunity to sample other corset techniques.

  • -This course is intermediate level, for people who can already sew, but want to add to their skills.

    -Classes starts at 10:00 and finish at 16:00 with a 1 hour lunch at 13:00.

    -6-8 Places available

    -Materials and Tools Provided

    -Students will make a full corset each

    -This course is taught in English.

  • £800 per student. This includes all course materials.

    None refundable on cancelation of course 1 week prior to the course.

  • If you’re interested in taking part in this course get in touch below.

    Should you want to ask any further questions about the course you can do so via this email.

    themanchesterschoolofcostume@gmail.com

    Please Note: School admin days are Monday. Applications or questions about courses will be dealt with the following Monday.

  • The school and studio have recently moved.

    We are now located in Ardwick, tucked away behind Ardwick green. A ten minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly station and accessible by bus routes from Manchester and Stockport on the 192 bus service. Parking is available at the rear of the building or local street parking.

    The Manchester school of Costume

    Graphite House, Paddock Street, Manchester M12 6HT

  • -Course is for ages 18 and above

    -Materials and tools provided for the course.

    -Accessibility: Unfortunately the school is unable to accommodate for wheelchair users or anyone who is unable to climb stairs.