Not one Corset pattern but two new corset patterns! I let the cat partially out of the bag last weekend when I sneak peeked the patterns at The Lingerie Retreat. I did my very best not to show too much, because I wanted to wait until I got back to give you all the deets! Eek! It’s very exciting to finally offer a corset pattern and I think a waspie and an underbust is the best place to start start. This post is to provide all the deets about the patterns as well as some basics about corsets – what is the difference between a waspie and underbust, why there are two pattens versus one, the DIY kits (omg hot pink and charms!) and more.

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Both Annabelle and Annette include a waspie and underbust pattern, so why are they separate patterns? There are two differences that were big enough to warrant making two separate patterns.

1. The Annette includes a busk at the center front, so there is a center front facing piece so that it can be inserted and clean finished.

2. The construction of Annette and Annabelle are different. To sum it up – the vertical seams on Annabelle are sewn with wrong sides together and the bone casing is exposed. The vertical seams on Annette are sewn with right sides together and the bone casing is on the inside. There are other minor differences in construction, but those are the two main ones.

Each pattern will be priced at $9.00 and bundled together for $16.00, which is the normal rate of a Madalynne pattern. Personally, I’d be upset if I paid $16.00 for two patterns that were the 99% the same. So if you purchase both, it is the price is consistent with purchasing one pattern.

Don’t know what the difference is between a waspie and an underbust corset? Annabelle and Annette are a type of corset that only covers the midsection. There key differences and pros + cons for each.

Annabelle offers minimal shaping so that it can be worn as lingerie or outerwear. Waist reduction is 1-2” – how much reduction will depend on fabric as well as body composition.

If you intend to wear the waspie or underbust as outerwear over clothing, recommended to size up. If you want to reduce more, recommended to increase the curve/shaping near the waistline on the pattern or size down.

Mesh corsets like Annabelle are a great option for someone who wants the look of a corset but with a little flexibility. However, I don’t recommend Annabelle or any mesh corset for tight lacing (reduction of more than 4” or 20% – the definition varies). Many people wear mesh corsets over clothing as a fashion piece and appreciate the sleek, cinched look it provides. If you prefer to tight lace, recommended to use a strong fabric like coutil.

. The most common questions I’ve received about corsets have had nothing to do with sewing corsets. It’s been about wearing corsets. One – “Does it take one or two people to put on a corset?” Two – “Can I put on a corset by myself?” Fun fact – the invention of the split busk in the 1830s helped democratize corsets. No longer did men (yes, men!) and women need a maid/helper to lace him/her up. He/she could do it themselves!

Before the release of the Annabelle + Annette waspie and underbust patterns (this Friday!), I want to cover the basics. Today is how to put on a corset with a busk (Annette) and tomorrow is how to put on a corset without a busk (Annabelle) by yourself. By no means is it as easy as throwing on a pair of sweatpants, but it’s also not as difficult as most people assume.

1. : You want is to be loose enough so that there is ease (the corset’s circumference measures more than your body’s circumference) so you can easily fasten the busk.

2. : Place the busk at your center front and the laces in the back. Ensure that the waistline on the corset is at your natural waist.

2. : Some people find it easier to fasten the top loop/stud and then work down. Other people find it easier to fasten than work up and down. You do you boo.

4. ’ : This is where it can get tricky and require patience. Using a mirror or your phone’s camera, start pulling the laces tighter. Even people who are not flexible say that they can do this! If you have mobility issues or experience any pain while tightening, I recommend getting someone to help you.

** . I stated this in yesterday’s post and I’ll state it again. The most common questions I’ve received about corsets have had nothing to do with sewing corsets. It’s been about wearing corsets. One – “Does it take one or two people to put on a corset”? Two – “Can I put on a corset by myself”?

Before the release of the Annabelle + Annette waspie and underbust patterns (this Friday!), I want to cover the basics. Yesterday was how to put on a corset with a busk (Annette) and today is how to put on a corset without a busk (Annabelle) by yourself. By no means is it as easy as throwing on a pair of sweatpants, but it’s also not as difficult as most people assume.

1. Loosen laces in the back so you can pull over your head or hips. If you have to take out the laces from a few of the eyelets, that is okay.

2. Tighten laces to the point where it is snug, but you can still twist the corset to the back. Relace any eyelets if you had to take them out step 1.

3. Twist corset around so laces are in back.

4. This is where it can get tricky and require patience. Using a mirror or your phone’s camera, start pulling the laces tighter. Even people who are not flexible say that they can do this! If you have mobility issues or experience any pain while tightening, I recommend getting someone to help you.

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