Junior Rasmussen
A wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime garment, but what happens when it doesn't fit as expected? One solution is to add a corset back, which can add flexibility to the sizing of the waist and bust. This alteration can be done by removing the zipper and replacing it with a lace-up back, allowing the wearer to tighten or loosen the dress as needed. This article will explore the process of adding a corset back to a wedding dress, including the materials needed and the step-by-step guide to achieve the perfect fit.
Characteristics and Values Table for Adding a Corset Back to a Wedding Dress
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Zipper | Remove the zipper and replace it with a corset/lace-up back |
| Fabric | Match the fabric of the dress, especially if there is an overlay on the gown |
| Loops | Determine the number of loops needed, usually spaced 1-1.5 inches apart; create loops with fabric or ribbon |
| Ribbon | Use ribbon to lace up the corset, choosing the width and length as desired; consider using wider ribbon for more coverage and modesty |
| Modesty Panel | Add a modesty panel to cover the lacing, cutting the fabric into a triangular shape to avoid bulkiness |
| Fitting | Ensure the dress fits well between the two bust points in the front for the corset back to work effectively |
| Flexibility | A corset back provides flexibility in sizing, allowing for tightening or loosening in specific areas for a more accurate fit |
| Length | Try on the dress and lace it up to determine the optimal length for the lacing; trim any excess fabric |
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Remove the zipper
To remove the zipper from a wedding dress, you will need a seam ripper. This is the best tool for the job as it allows you to cut the stitches holding the zipper in place without damaging the fabric. Using a seam ripper, start by removing the zipper from the top. Cut the zipper about half an inch above where it needs to stop, and then fold over and sew. You can use a sewing machine, but it can be fiddly, so hand sewing may be quicker and easier.
Before removing the zipper, it is important to note how it is positioned and sewn into the dress. This is so you can sew the new corset lacing in the same way. For example, is the zipper visible or hidden? Does the zipper material peek out from the raw edges of the fabric?
Once you have removed the zipper, you may want to re-attach the hook and eye at the new stop point of the zipper. If your dress did not have a hook and eye, you can find a spare set and attach them.
If your zipper is not being removed to be replaced with a corset back, you can simply replace it with a new zipper. To do this, measure your old zipper and choose a new zipper of the same size, colour, and style. Sew the new zipper into place, following the path of the old stitches.
If your zipper is stuck, there are several at-home fixes you can try. These include:
- Using pliers to gently realign the zipper teeth if they are out of place
- Using a lubricant like petroleum jelly, WD-40, or soap on the teeth near the stoppage
- Rubbing the teeth with the lead of a No. 2 pencil or a bar of soap
- Using a fork to mesh the teeth together (this is a temporary fix)
- Using needle-nose pliers or tweezers to gently pull away any caught fabric
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Cut the fabric
The first step to adding a corset back to a wedding dress is to remove the zipper. You can do this by using a seam ripper to start at the top of the zipper and work your way down. Once you've removed the zipper, cut it off about half an inch above where it needs to stop. Be sure to fold over and sew the fabric to secure it.
Next, you'll need to determine the number and placement of the loops for your corset. Typically, they are spaced about 1.5 inches apart, but you can adjust this depending on your preference and the amount of space you have to work with. If you're using ribbon for the lacing, cut strips of ribbon that are long enough to create loops of the desired size.
If you're using fabric strips for the loops, cut them to the appropriate length, allowing for some overlap when folded in half. You can use extra fabric from the hem of your dress or matching fabric to create these strips. Fold the strips in half lengthwise, with the right sides of the fabric together, and sew a seam along the open edge to create a tube. Turn the tube right side out using a safety pin or a turning stick, and then fold the ends up inside the tube and stitch them closed.
Now you're ready to attach the loops to the dress. Pin or clip the loops to the back of the dress, folding them towards the centre so that they are sandwiched between the main fabric and the lining. Sew all the way down to secure the loops, making sure to include the lining if there is one.
Finally, re-attach the hook and eye at the new stop point of the zipper, and your corset back is complete! You can now lace up your wedding dress and enjoy a perfect fit.
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Create loops
To create loops for a corset back wedding dress, you can use ribbon, string, or fabric strips. Measure the back opening length of the dress and decide how close together you want your loops to be. For instance, if your dress opening is 12 inches long, you may want your loops to be 1 inch apart.
If using ribbon, cut the ribbon into strips of your desired length, allowing for a seam allowance. Fold the strips in half and pin or clip them in place on the back of the dress, with the loops facing toward the centre of the dress. Sew the loops in place, being sure to include the lining if there is any. You can also reinforce the loops by sewing over them a few times.
If using fabric strips, cut them on the bias with a serrated blade to prevent fraying. Allow for a seam allowance, and make them longer than you think you will need. Before stitching, lay a length of cotton twine down the fold, knotting one end and anchoring it in the seam at the top of the tube. Stitch the length, trim the seam, and then pull on the knotted end of the twine to turn the fabric tube right side out. Position the cord by taping it in a continuous piece to a button.
Another method for creating loops with fabric strips involves using a tube turning set, such as the Fasturn brand. First, sew a seam along the open edge of the strip to create a tube. Then, use a safety pin or turning stick to turn the tube right side out. Decide on the spacing of your loops and pin or tape them to the back of the dress. Sew the loops in place, removing the pins or tape afterward.
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Sew the loops
To sew the loops for a corset back on a wedding dress, you will need to cut strips of fabric. If you want to use a matching ribbon, you can find one at your local fabric store. The strips should be cut on the bias about an inch wide. You can use a serrated blade to cut the fabric to prevent raveling.
Before stitching, lay a length of cotton twine down the fold. Knot the top end of the twine, then anchor it in the seam at the top of the tube. Sew a seam about a quarter of an inch from the open edge of the fabric strip, creating a tube. Stretch the fabric as you sew. Turn the tube right side out using a turning stick or safety pin.
Try on the dress and lace it up to decide on the best length for the loops. Trim off any excess fabric and turn up the ends inside the tube about half an inch. Stitch across each opening to close them. Pin the loop strips to the right side of the dress, pinning them between the lining and the dress. Sew the loops in place, reinforcing them with additional strips of fabric if desired.
Finally, pin the modesty panel in place with the loop strip between the lining and the dress. Sew the modesty panel, ensuring it is only attached to one side. You can use bias strips to create a tie for the corset, sewing them together with right sides facing. Trim off the excess fabric and press the seam with an iron.
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Tie the laces
Once you have prepared your dress by removing the zipper and creating the loops, you can start lacing up your corset-back wedding dress. It is recommended to have a helper for this step, as it can be quite tricky to do alone.
Firstly, loosely lace the ribbons from top to bottom, leaving enough room to be able to put the dress on. Once the dress is on, pull the laces tight from top to bottom. You can start at the middle and tighten from both ends simultaneously, or start from the top and work your way down. The latter method is recommended if you want the bottom of the dress to be tighter than the top.
Finally, tie the ends of the ribbon securely, either in a stylish bow or a firm knot. You can then tuck in any excess ribbon neatly into the gown.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need to remove the zipper, add loops and lace up the back of the dress.
Mark the highest point where the zipper can be zipped up. Make sure the wearer can sit down in the dress.
Sew the hook and eye back on at the new place where the zipper goes up to now. Determine how many loops you need and sew them in.
The loops are typically spaced about 1.5 inches apart. However, this can vary depending on the amount of space for the corset back.
