Busks!

[gem]

Ok, that probably didn't need an exclamation point, but I like the word, so. 

What are my busk options?  I know you can buy them, but is there a DIY substitute?  I have a corset from Castle Garden Creations, and it has a really wide, plexiglass busk (4 1/2" across the top, tapering to about 1" at the bottom), but I'm not sure I'm up for working with plexiglass.  I've heard of people using paint sticks, but that seems... potentially more fragile than I'd like.

So.  Let's talk busks, gentles!

[Lady Rosalind]

I like the exclamation point! 

Is your hubby handy with a saw and sander? I believe that Kate's husband made a wooden busk for her corset, but I could be mistaken...

[AmazonSage]

I design and make my own custom busks but since I sell them as a specialty I'd rather not share my secret.... But, some people who go for h.a. use a board cut to the right size, and if you have access to a jig saw or something like it then it's very easy to make.  You'd want to start with good solid wood around 1/2" thick.  The original busks were closer to 3" on top and 2" on the bottom but you could do up to 5" on top, but stay at 2" at the bottom to keep the wood strong.  You'd have to sand down the edges very well to prevent the fabric from ripping.  Back in the back those who couldn't afford whale bone would use wood.

Busk = no Pain no gain
lol

[nliedel]

Cheap and dirty alternative is a paint stick from a paint shop. Seriously.

[verymerryseamstress]

Here you go, Gem!

These are the only busks I use for Elizabethan corsets:
http://store.corsetmaking.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=CMS&Category_Code=WB&AFFIL=CM

Make a pocket sandwiched between your lining and your fashion fabric, and insert your busk into the pocket.  Close it at the top to keep the busk in place with a laced eyelet.  If you're creative, you can do some nice wood-burned designs on these. 

[Cilean]

http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/index.shtml

Hedgehog, has hand made busks, the busk in Elizabethan era is the same all around, it is not tapered, they will make it in any size and wood. I have a lovely purple heart wood busk from them and they are very inexpensive! I paid $12.00 for my busk!!!


So I can suggest this for you!

Cilean

[gem]

Cilean, do you have a direct link to that busk on the Hedgehog website?  The only one I'm finding is their Victorian busk (metal, with hooks that open).

[Cilean]

hmmm well poo!

I sent a message to hedgehog, I don't see them online, I am sorry! They have many different sizes and shapes I can assure you! They said if you speak with them or send them an email they can get right on it.  They will upload (I guess, as soon as they can)

Sorry for that I see them in person a lot as they merchant in Southern California.

Cilean

[Naween]

My mom used to buy giant square plastic margarine tubs.....I cut them to shape (and laminate them together if I need it somewhat sturdier), and find it works well. Likely wouldnt do for rigid support, but for a softer busk that still provides light-medium support, I find they work well.

[Pipere]

TWO PAINT STICKS!

Seriously, bond 'em with a little duct tape, they work great.