For your figure you’ll need to adjust the pieces specifically for each side. Meaning, you’ll have all individual pieces for the entire corset and not cutting double (one for left and right the same). It can be done.

As for home corset patterns, the Laughing Moon #100 and Truly Victorian 110 are my go-to’s. The Laughing Moon straight seam goes a bit wonky in the grading above size 12, but the pieces are good to start from. I’ve used the TV pattern many times. Your focus will be to open out seams in areas and even curve edges so when sewn they appear straight. Use your corset to help you measure the new pattern for adjustments, such as raising the front bust cup area and where to open the bottom to cover the high hip more fully without strain on the lower edge or fabric buckling at the waist above that high hip.

[Finally, the corset class is still open for enrollment (January 2025), but I’ll be closing down most (if not all) the courses on the Historical Sewing School during 2025.]

Hello! Simply because you are small on top doesn’t mean you can’t wear an over bust corset! Yes, you can. You could even add bust padding (purchased or made) to add to fuller bust look.
The Victorian Corset Class on this page is for an over-bust corset. With silhouette padding it would work through 1910 fashions. It is the best corset shape for the 1890s. And you can take this class now and work through it at your own pace.
My current workshop class – Late Edwardian Corset – is a very long corset shape truly meant for the slim fashions starting around 1909. It is can be made under the bust or at the apex level (which is the best height for corsets used as undergarments so they don’t show under the bodice). I would not recommend the corset in this class for 1890s or even early 1900s fashions. It’s simply not correct. Hope this helps!

As for events, check historical societies and places. Get on social media and plan a tea or meal at a restaurant for others willing to join you in costume. Sometimes it starts with only a couple people willing to get dressed up and enjoy the day. 🙂

Hi Lorna,
I have a whole tutorial section & video in the class on how to measure for your busk length. As for supplies, you’ll have to order in but I have a list of recommended vendors for you. I do not supply corset supplies. We’ve had a few students from NZ take our classes (including this Victorian Corset one), so you are not alone in making corsets from where you are. 🙂

Cheers,
Jennifer

Oh, yes Bonnie. We will rotate workshops throughout the year. Keep an eye out for when dates are scheduled.