Welcome to the first official blog post for our four-person Corset-Making Challenge! This is going to be one of many exciting firsts for most of us. :)

But first, a quick overview of the mechanics:

  1. Make a corset for a model. The corset must have rigid to semi-rigid boning. there are no material restrictions.
  2. Choose a judge based on (1) aesthetic knowledge, and(2) technical know-how. the judge must not only have a keen eye for beauty, but also an understanding of the construction process of a corset.
  3. Take four to six photos of the corset on the model. three will be front-side-back views, ans two shots will be creative shots to show off the item to the best effect.
  4. Give the pictures to the judges. The pictures must not be labeled with the name of the maker.
Oh, and the prize?

Each contestant will contribute an item of crafting or sewing interest to the contest's "prize pot". The winner takes all four items, as well as enjoys the satisfaction of having created a finely-crafted and damn sexy corset. :)

Criteria:
  • Quality of Workmanship -- the placement of stitches and boning will be vital. The fewer wrinkles, the better, the closer to the prize.
  • Design Creativity -- the design should offer something witty, creative, and new to the viewer. Wit may be shown through the pattern, the materials, even how the corset fits in an ensemble.
  • Fit -- the corset must begin and end on the right parts of the body, and the silhouette must have an hourglass look. The less creases when the corset is worn, the better.
  • Design Usabilty -- The corset, although an old form of dress, should be usable in the
    modern context. Usable can be defined in varying ways -- it may be apt for day or night wear, it may be usable for effecting a vintage feel, and so on. for short, the corset must be wearable.
Thus being said, the contestants are now in the process of designing their corsets. We wish everyone the best of luck, and we avidly look forward to their ideas.