When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Yes
  • Tutor Sharon Steed
  • Course Code W24FASE03C
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

Part of our growing Costuming provision, Regency Corsets is both a stand-alone project as well as one of the quintessential underpinnings that make the Regency and early Victorian silhouettes possible. This term-long course is designed to teach you the skills you need to learn how to construct patterns and fit a corset to your own measurements. A variety of techniques are explored that are appropriate to making both period as well as modern corsets. Teaching is fast paced and students are advised to allow around 3 hours for work between classes. Making corsets is an essential skill much sought after by Theatre and Film production companies, in the fashion industry, for personal use and in Cosplay.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate ability to draft a pattern using own measurements and instruction
  • Analyse the fit of the corset and understand methods of alteration
  • Complete a corset in fabric using appropriate specialist supplies
  • Gain an insight into the history of corsetry and how a corset affects silhouette

Class format and activities

Teaching is delivered on site as a whole class, involving small-group discussions and teaching, demonstrations, photos and explanations of each stage of construction, as well as group discussion/ troubleshooting with the tutor. In order to ensure you make the best possible progress on your course, you will have regular constructive and supportive feedback. Good attendance and punctuality are crucial. Please inform your tutor regarding any lateness or absences.

Entry requirements

This course is an Intermediate level course, suitable for people that have completed clothes making at an intermediate level for 2 terms or more or have equivalent experience. It is not suitable for beginners. This confirms that you can: Check body measurements against pattern and understand ease; Carry out basic pattern alterations such as lengthening/shortening, widening/narrowing; Layout patterns, measure grainlines and cut out fabric following lay plans; Understand pattern markings; Use a sewing machine accurately and safely. Basic numeracy and English language speaking, listening and reading skills are essential.

What you need to know before you enrol

To continue bringing you an exciting range of courses, Victorian Corsets won't be offered again until 2024! Working on patterns and cutting out fabric can involve standing at high tables for a period of time. Please let the tutor know if this would be difficult for you. Sewing machines have a foot operated speed control. The fashion studios are on the first floor of the Nancy Seear building and there is a lift access to the first floor. Please note the eating is not allowed in the fashion studios - you are allowed to have bottled water.

What you need

A list will be provided but you should bring:• a basic sewing kit: fabric scissors, sharp trimming scissors, dressmaker’s pins, tape measure• dressmaker’s tracing wheel and carbon paper• a selection of hand sewing needles and threads• notepad and pens, pencils, sharpener and eraser Also: you must provide your own fabrics, boning, haberdashery, threads, etc. Details will be given to you at the beginning of the course.

What you can do next

We have a wide range of fashion term long and weekend courses which may be of interest to you. Please consult www.morleycollege.ac.uk to see our full offering. You might want to try one of the following: Victorian Bodices, Victorian Corsets and Victorian Skirts. Want to go further? Our HNC/HND, BA (Hons) or Access to Fashion Diploma courses can be the first step to making Fashion your new career. For more details visit: https://www.morleycollege.ac.uk