How to Make a Bodice

Bodices are ideal for Renaissance-style costumes, pirate costumes, prom dresses or simply adding stability to your shape. Sometimes, bras just don't cut it and you need a little more support or you want to make your chest look bigger and your stomach smaller. Some people find them very comfortable, and they can be worn under or over clothing, with or without sleeves and can make your figure look the way you want it to or enhance an outfit or costume. The question is, short of spending tons of money buying one, is it possible to make your own? Of course it is, and you can learn how here.

Things You'll Need

• pattern
• fabric
• sewing machine
• eyelets

Instructions

How to Make a Bodice

1. Find an appropriate patternFabric stores will have patterns for both corsets and bodices – make sure you pick up the right one – and if you can't find good patterns, try online at www.sewingpatterns.com. These patterns will help you so you're not making the bodice on your own, so you can feel confident that it's being made correctly.

2. Find an appropriate patternFabric stores will have patterns for both corsets and bodices – make sure you pick up the right one – and if you can't find good patterns, try online at www.sewingpatterns.com. These patterns will help you so you're not making the bodice on your own, so you can feel confident that it's being made correctly.

3. Choose the Right FabricDo you want a patterned fabric, a solid colored fabric like red or blue or green or a fabric that is meant to go under your outfit in black, white or nude? Do you want lace? Do you want ribbon? All these things need to be taken into consideration before you begin. Then, purchase the amount of fabric you need according to the pattern and your measurements.

4. Cut the Pattern and Piece the Bodice TogetherCut the pieces of the bodice and sew them together. You should also add boning (if you want it) so that you can make it fit properly and make it fit your torso well. Don't buy the binding precut as that will cost more than double.

5. Add the Eyelet Holes and the StringEyelets and eyelet holes are particularly difficult and it's wise to practice on a separate piece of cloth first and set up the eyelets so you know exactly how they look and are sure you like them. Add the string or ribbon you need to tighten it once the eyelets are in. Don't add straps, as these are highly uncomfortable and can rub against your skin.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to easily make more than one bodice, choose two fabrics that you like so you can wear it in reverse.

• So you don't have to wash them often, wear something under the bodice.

Resources

• Morning Coffee: Fully-Lined Bodice
• Fabric
• 16th and 17th Century Bodices and Corsests
• Sewing Patterns