I made my first bodice a couple of years ago with a lining that is kind of an odd fabric. It's fairly heavy but has a loose weave, looser than I'd like. I'd like to wear it but I'm afraid it will stretch and lose shape. There are two layers of the inner fabric w/the boning sandwich between. Obviously, it's too late to do anything about it now, but do you think it's wearable?
Thanks!
If the inner layers with the boning between them are sturdy and you are not being poked by the bones it should be fine.
But if you still have the pattern, you can sew a new lining and then slip stitch it over the old one by hand.
I agree with CS; it matters more what the innards of the corset are made with. If you used something sturdy like canvas, you should be fine.
But more to the point: You made a bodice TWO YEARS AGO and haven't worn it yet?! What are you waiting for? And you won't know if the lining is a problem unless you test that baby out.
I want to wear it this weekend. I guess I'll take a back up bodice in case this one starts to lose its holding power.
A back up bra's not a bad idea, either, just in case. My bodices are supportive enough that I don't need one, but if I'm only doing Fairwear (not H/A), I wear a bra (basic, soft-cup T-shirt bra) under mine, just because it's easier to deal with, and helps keep the bodices from wearing out too soon.
I like that idea. Even if the bodice stretches like Armstrong, a bra could be easily worn underneath.
The only trouble is, if your assets are generous, finding a bra that's low-cut in front enough/has skinny enough straps that it's not visible above your chemise. You can actually go to a different size if necessary, since it's basically just a backup for the bodice.