How to make a basic Tudor bodice from scratch

After years of teaching other people's methods of costuming I have decided to go back to my tailoring roots. Sewing simply isn't being taught the way it was used to (goodness that makes me feel OLD!). Online there are plenty of tutorials on how to make bodices, but none that focus on the basics of "how" to sew, what to do at each stage, why certain methods are used by tailors and not costumers (and there is a big difference between the two!) So, from beginning to end I intend, over the next few weeks (let's hope not years) to lay out and explain each stage of the process.

A word or two on expense

"Never buy two cheap dresses when you can afford one good dress." a family saying.

"Don't make do; make it right." another family saying

Tailoring is not a cheap hobby. Why do you think couture clothes are so expensive? Sure you can save money and look fabulous by learning to do it yourself - BUT - you are only saving on the wages paid for the long hours and expert knowledge of the tailor. To have the look and wear of a decent garment you still need to fork out for quality fabrics. A quality fabric will wear longer, look better for longer and hold its shape forever (look at the effigy corset). So skimping isn't an option. Yes you can save money by using cheaper materials - but it will show!

Start with:

1. Taking Measurements