The Easiest Corset I've Ever Made: Sewing a WWI-era Corset

After suffering through my last corset/stays making project, I needed something easy. And while this corset pattern is fairly simple (no lining, no extensive-fitting issues, no frills), I still managed to mess up some parts and run out of supplies along the way! Join me as I make a completely different style of corset from an era I’ve never sewn before (the 1910s) and watch me learn important lessons like "remember which size you’re supposed to cut out” and “how to sew a straight line” - lessons I really ought to have learned by now...
**SUPPLIES**
Rilla Corset Pattern: www.scrooppatt...
Synthetic whalebone, busk, garters: corsetmaking.com
**REFERENCES**
My most recent corset (1780s Stays) video: • Comparing my FIRST cor...
Corset advertisement: sirenschool.tu...
The Delineator 1912: babel.hathitru...
The Delineator 1916: babel.hathitru...
Redthreaded video on extant corsets: • Examining Our Extant C...
Late 18th Century Transitional Stays: www.metmuseum....
1890s Mesh Corset: www.metmuseum....
**CREDITS**
Music from EpidemicSound.com
** CONNECT **
Find me on Instagram @dixiediy: / dixiediy
I blog at dixiediy.com
Comments are welcome, please be kind!

[@chrisenglund9269]

My grandmother, born in 1878, wore this style of corset to the end of her long life. Her corsets were peach-colored and somewhat shiny, probably rayon, and worn over nylon "step-ins."

[@alexismontez4230]

I've seen the shiny fabric called broche

[@Solitude11-11]

Mine did too! I remember hugging her round her hips when I was little and how ‘solid’ she felt with them on 😊

[@theoffkeydiva]

I think making do with supplies you have on hand is exactly what the original WW1 makers of this corset would have done! Bonus points for unintended historical accuracy

[@DixieDIY]

haha, thanks! I will gladly take those points!

[@rhondamast3441]

I love seeing corsets from the eras that aren’t nearly as popular.

[@DixieDIY]

Thanks! me, too

[@sunndoyouknow25]

Bernadette Banner did an Edwardian mesh corselet and I think she used a super sturdy cotton bobbinette, but I’d have to rewatch her video to remember. There’s always power mesh, lol! This looks super awesome, Dixie!!

[@DixieDIY]

Oooh, good idea on the bobbinet. I've actually used power mesh on a modern bra before, I probably still have some laying around although not enough for a full corset, lol!

[@haven9013]

It was cotton bobbinette that was heavily starched, but it was a bust, meaning that it didn't sit on her skin as tightly as a corset and added to her shape instead of bringing her in

[@valentinacavalottivelasco9484]

the triped fabric and where it meets in the seam lines makes brain go happy

[@AraneaBlack]

Corset turned out great! 😍😍😍 And a massive yes for back lacing strips! A definite must have tool for anyone making corsets. 😁

[@MiahGrace]

Now I want to copy cat this corset! It’s dreamy! I don’t know when I would wear it...or with what haha

[@DixieDIY]

thank you :)

[@beth12svist]

As shapewear under modern / vintage clothes. :-) The author of the pattern has commented that she's used it in that capacity in a pinch.

[@meankatrina]

I made Scroop patterns "modern" fantail skirt last year, it was only my third or fourth sewing project ever, and it is still one of my favorite projects to actually make, and to wear. It's great to know that the pattern quality wasn't a one-off for them! I do wish they had more historical styles, but they seem to be creating and releasing new patterns periodically, so we'll just have to keep our eyes peeled.

[@beth12svist]

It's one single patternmaker with a day job, so she doesn't roll out patterns quite as often as some other pattern companies do - but then also you can be sure you're not getting a rushed product. When it comes to historical patterns, she seems to always pick styles that lend themselves to variation and fill a gap on the market, so I think that's another reason she doesn't do them all the time.

[@karenradcliff9163]

Thank you for this! It's just the period I'm interested in. And I'm particularly fond of ticking. As for the mesh, I know several people have mentioned Bernadette's video, but Pocket Full of Poseys also did a mesh corset, and she used Aida embroidery fabric.

[@CocoTheSpookyLibrarian]

I'm so glad this is a simple era because I'm in LOVE with this era 😍🔥

[@CocoTheSpookyLibrarian]

Or relatively

[@cincocats320]

I love the teens too, esp 1915 to 20. So much happened to silouettes in a very short time, it definitely doesnt get the love it deserves.

[@soniaiberti2602]

Just came across this video and subscribed. This corset is so beautiful, so original, I love the fabric you chose for it and the final look is simply gorgeous! I've watched other videos on corset making, but this is the first one that actually makes me want to give it a try... well, sooner or later 🤭 Thank you. Blessings 💗

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Your corset looks so great! My teens one is also out of ticking, though it's the red style. As far as the mesh for the summer corset goes, I believe there is actually a product called corset mesh. That said, I'm not sure where to find it, but I would think someplace like corsetmaking.com should have something like that?

[@DixieDIY]

thank you! I'll do a search for corset mesh and see if anything good pops up, so thanks for that suggestion as well!

[@thearchivemermaid2033]

I bought at 1910's corset pattern for my first corset project because it looks a little bit easier (plus if I get it done in time I can wear it for a The Music Man production), after this video I still have high hopes. Regarding summer mesh corsets I've heard of people using sports mesh or aida for a more HA project, also I know cotton mesh is available for purchase (I'd do a google shopping search).

[@DixieDIY]

Not having to fit the bust definitely made this project easier, so you should go for it! Hmm, aida cloth might work...

[@JoDidntHearYou]

Wow this is so cool! You’ve inspired me and now I want to make this exact corset. Idk how it’ll work for me since I have a big stomach, but I hope that using steel boning will help. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@Pour_La_Victoire]

Very well done! I have this pattern too, but keep putting it off because I'm unfamiliar with 19 teens sewing. Your video has encouraged me to create my Rilla corset sooner rather than later!

[@DixieDIY]

yay! you should definitely make one! and thanks :)

[@jenniferold-dentremont6698]

The stripes were a fantastic choice for this project. What a great utilitarian piece you've got there.

[@DixieDIY]

Thank you!

[@tammymasson2343]

What a fun video to watch you go through this process! It turned out fantastic! I appreciate the pattern review as well!

[@DixieDIY]

Thank you so much! I love it when I find a really good pattern, it's like uncovering buried treasure...

[@lucasmcinnis5045]

I'm almost finished with a 1910s corset using the McCalls M7915 pattern, it's an overbust 1910s corset and I'm making mine from recycled jeans, but it's a very good pattern for anyone who is looking

[@DixieDIY]

Oooh, I like the idea of re-using jeans! I haven't tried any of the Angela Clayton McCall's patterns yet but maybe I will sometime soon.

[@lucasmcinnis5045]

@@DixieDIY Thanks! The jeans I'm using are really sturdy and give the perfect coutil-like strength. This is my first Angela Clayton as well, but it's also my first pattern ever and so far it's been very comprehensive

[@MaridithSmith]

I really adore the look your ticking made.

[@janisi9262]

I love the striped fabric you used here; it's just so pretty.

[@LilacDaisy2]

I was looking forward to seeing how you sit in it. Love the combo of the "utilitarian" fabric together with the pretty and sweet under-garment. So curious how it would hold my D-cups up and firm though!

[@DixieDIY]

Not very well, I’d imagine. It doesn’t give much bust support at all. This is around the time bras became a thing, because not every corset offered “lift.”

[@marthabenner6528]

I think that mesh was called bobbinet or net. it's not very cheap $20 or $28 a half yard at the one store I found it in a year ago. You might check Etsy or make a request of Burnley and Trowbridge. They do not carry it in Jo-Ann's or any of the other handful of fabric stores I checked. However you could make the bottom with bobbin lace and the top with something else and leave the middle empty. That was a style of Summer corset that existed in the symington collection. I was thinking of doing an experiment with some "soft bra tulle" though I do not have high hopes, it's stretchy. My knowledge is purely intellectual I have not had a successful fitting for corsets or stays yet, I have however watched quite a few videos and read a few books, so take it with a grain of salt.

[@Butterflylion1]

Lovely looking design

[@wzrdreams]

I am LOVING your honest thoughts on pattern drafting and pattern instructions!!

[@TakittyLove]

The Royal Russian family's daughters used to wear this kind of corsett but they were shot in 1917 by Bolchevics. The girls could survive due they sewed stones and jewels to the corsetts but unfortunately they were hit to die sadly. This corset gives me a perspective how they could survive in that first moment. Also, it looks so gorgeous ✨

[@lindagoulder8934]

Hi, Dixie: Great video, I'm also making a 1912 corset, to go with my underpinnings and my impressionware for an upcoming self motivated, self guided Titanic living history event. After speaking with the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge Tennessee, they were thrilled to know that I would be visiting in 1912 impressionware.. I may decide to find a tea house and have afternoon tea in my 1912, impressionware.. I will be vlogging this entire vacation and event as an intro for my new KZbin channel the Highland Lass.. The mesh in this corset looks like cotton bobbinet mesh, I purchase my cotton bobbinet from Dharma Trading company out of Cali, love the historical background on this corset and great video... My best always, Linda AKA The Highland Lass

[@elisabethm9655]

Thanks! Great tutorial. As for mesh, Bernadette Banner’s bust bodice video might be helpful...though if memory serves, I think she bought her fabric in the NY fabric district.?🧐😌

[@DixieDIY]

I'll have to re-watch that video to see what she used, thanks!

[@frilindsay]

After watching this, I have a much better idea of how this may work out for me. Thank you so much! Your corset is beautiful!

[@ConstanceMarkiewicz]

Brilliant video! Just about to make a start on this pattern.

[@brissygirl4997]

I know this is a bit of an older video but did you watch Abby's video last week about hand sewing? She had a part about silk threads and how you need thicker/stronger thread for hems etc. It might be useful for future projects. Love the corset and I believe Lady of the Wilderness works with Scroop patterns testing them out to make sure the instructions work etc.

[@alopez7465]

Can you share a link to the video? I'm curious to learn more

[@brissygirl4997]

@@alopez7465 here you go kzbin.info/www/bejne/pofci51-mNCIp5I

[@DixieDIY]

I haven't yet but I'll check it out! thanks!

[@beth12svist]

Lady of the Wilderness works with Leimomi of Scroop Patterns to make the 18th century patterns. The rest are just pattern-tested with handpicked pattern-testers of various shapes and experiences and mother tongues - I've pattern-tested one of her modern patterns for her. But she has experience teaching sewing and also sewing costumes i.e. fitting on variety of bodies (as opposed to "fashion" courses that apparently mostly focus on RTW sizing), so she knows how to write useful instructions and cover fitting problems right off the bat, and the testing just fine-tunes it!

[@oliviamusselman2235]

I just discovered your channel and I love your videos! I'm relatively new to sewing and want to start historical costuming, so these corset-making videos have been especially informative

[@zocansew]

this was so incredibly helpful in making my own rilla corset, thank you so much! :D

[@dawnchapman4585]

Mesh Fabric Source: Bernadette Banner covers this in two videos. She purchases the bobbinet in a video called “NYC & London Fabric Shopping Adventures & New Project Announcement” in cotton at B&J Fabrics (7:22), in polyester at Steinlauf & Stiller Inc. (11:55), and in cotton for half the price as B&J at New York Elegant (www.nyelegant.com) (13:53). She uses the bobbinet in “Achieving That Classic Edwardian Shape.” I watched your video and KNEW I had seen a video, then I stumbled onto it again this evening. I hope this helps!

[@saundrayork767]

I believe, for the summer-time net corset, you will be pleased with a lightweight silk organdy (not to be confused with organza)

[@coffemuse]

I know I'm late coming to this video, but I would LOVE to see you sitting down in that corset, to see how it moves and how it might look with a slim skirt over it while sitting and walking! Great video thanks.

[@DixieDIY]

Can't believe I didnt think of filming sitting down!! Next time this corset appears in a vid I'll remember to do that

[@ClissaT]

I purchased some corsets from Corset Story late last year and one was a mesh corset. The mesh is sort of plastic or maybe made from spun PET. Perhaps it's a camping tent product. Although in the colour I purchased (bright orange) I don't think they make tents in that colour! So check out tent manufacturing supplies or sports supplies and see what they have. I like the way you used the mattress ticking which would be a solid material for a single layer corset. And probably cooler too.

[@SarahBent]

Suddenly getting inspired. I really want to make the Wearing History 1910s suit and will need a corset. Looks good!

[@gigiw.7650]

We don't mind you doing shortcuts because you don't do shortcuts on your work or explanations! 😊 Does it support your bust enough? 🤔 Second edit: I love it! 💕

[@homephone6375]

For the summer corset you could use cotton bobbin knit Fabric and then stiffen it with starch

[@charmainegarnham9722]

Love this era corset, well done!

[@elinordrake7129]

Really nice!

[@atekandi6715]

There is a site called reconstructing history that has a lot of interesting historical patterns. Check it out. Nice work with the corset

[@nathaliej3768]

I loved this video! Your corset looks great :)

[@gabriela1490]

Oooh it's lovely!

[@mandylavida]

Gorgeous!

[@daunledford7780]

Hook and eye on the bottom

[@sahzayaramesses4769]

Yessssss

[@gracetayler4508]

This is such an insightful video thank you for sharing it with us! I’d like to make one of these but I’m really an amateur seamstress is there a anything like a mock-up I can buy online or something to help me start out, what would you suggest? :)

[@DixieDIY]

Thanks! I'm not exactly sure what you're asking for. Like, mock up material to use?? Or a pattern?

[@lifestylecurves685]

Love your content

[@thetimelesscostumemaker1266]

What a lovely corset! And the pattern looks very doable for me. I am rather busty (DDD) though so would you still recommend it for someone who has a large bust? Do you think the other view would go up higher?

[@DixieDIY]

You’d want to make a separate brassiere. There are a few patterns floating around from the era. They won’t be nearly as supportive or “lifting” as modern bras.

[@thetimelesscostumemaker1266]

@@DixieDIY Thank You

[@teddy-3765]

{LAUGH!} Your "pretty messy" sewing room is what mine is like when it's tidy!

[@susanhillis5952]

I respect the too lazy to move the camera mood in this video

[@DixieDIY]

hahaha, glad someone else appreciates that

[@m.r.e3583]

Okay ... Weird thought but follow me ... How exactly would a person be able to use the bathroom wearing a corset like this? I absolutely love the final shape and it actually looks like it'd be comfortable but I don't see how someone could sit on a toilet with this. Maybe my mommy brain is over thinking this but doesn't the boning go all the way down the back of the bum? It's flexible but it doesn't look like something you'd be able to 'flip up' or move out of the way without major discomfort.

[@DixieDIY]

So the bones end at right about the hip level so you could just roll up the fabric below the hips to be able to sit down and the center front part is open below the busk so that helps, too.

[@m.r.e3583]

@@DixieDIY thank you so much ☺️ I thought that was the case but wasn't sure.

[@lynn5399]

I’m picking out my first corset project, but I have a bad back. Do you find that this corset holds your back in a fairly comfortable position? And can you sit comfortably in it? I’d hate to go to all the trouble of making a corset only to not be able to wear it, haha.

[@DixieDIY]

So, corsets don't really hold your back up as much as they prevent you from slouching forward because of the busk. So I guess the level of support depends on what part of your back is giving you trouble. If you have low back issues, this style will cover you but if it's upper back, you'd probably benefit more from an over bust style, if that makes sense. Also if your back issues are related to a large bust, for example, and over bust style would probably be more helpful. Yes, sitting down is comfortable (the bones end at high hip and the front busk is pretty short). Good luck on your first corset!

[@lynn5399]

Dixie DIY Thank you very much! I’m don’t necessarily need a corset to hold me in any certain position, I just wanted to make sure it doesn’t force an unnatural position, if that makes sense. Thanks again!

[@rebeccakoch1890]

I'm going to make this pattern now (I might Frankenstein some cups) How comfortable would you say this is to wear?

[@DixieDIY]

Since the design isn't very curvy I'd say it's pretty comfortable. It's not pulling you in very tightly in the waist, mostly it's just smoothing you out.

[@rebeccakoch1890]

@@DixieDIY thank you! My only concern is that *I* am pretty curvy, but I guess I'll just have to make it and see

[@smalldeergregory6120]

I bought this pattern and was wondering if you had an issue with the first sheet that prints matching to the next sheet. The first sheet with the test square is true to size but does not line up with Piece C. Everything else lined up perfectly.

[@DixieDIY]

Hmm, no I didnt have that problem. Was the difference a significant amount (like more than 1/4in)?

[@TealCheetah]

Did you ever get that last piece of boning?

[@DixieDIY]

Lol no I totally forgot about it until now! Luckily I have more synthetic whale bone so I can just stick some in there, thanks!

[@alexandralefebvre4168]

I just have one question. How do you go to the toilet with a corset that long ?

[@DixieDIY]

Haha I’ve never done it but I imagine it’s not hard seeing as you can easily sit down. I guess you could bend the fabric up if you really needed to.

[@alexandralefebvre4168]

@@DixieDIY thank you. And as a slender person, do you think that it is essential to wear a 1910’s corset in order to achieve the fashionable silhouette?

[@JenInOz]

Try bobbinette from tutu.com for the mesh corset?

[@DixieDIY]

ooooh, I haven't seen that site before, thanks for the link!

[@downinthevalley9757]

who the heck is the 1 person who disliked?

[@beverley-memawmawclarkwhit5102]

I have worn a corset like this with all those garters....they are MURDER to wear!!! try going to the BR with it!!!

[@DixieDIY]

Haha! I haven't had to use the BR while wearing this yet. Come to think of it, I don't think I've worn any of my costumes for a long enough period of time (more than 4hrs) to need the use the BR...

[@sonipitts]

This is why split drawers were so popular, even into the 1910s and a bit later. Much easier to attend to such needs while wearing garters. Still not sure how women in 40s and 50s girdles managed it, tho. Sounds like way too much wrestling under pressure for me, lol.