Oct 28, 2025
My 18th Century-Inspired Stays Tutorial

Hello, all! 

This project is not the easiest, but it is my absolute favorite! While I feel like I have this technique pretty well nailed down, I still mess with the base pattern almost every time I make new stays, either lowering the back panels by 1-2 inches or raising the front panels by half an inch. My biggest tips are to take your time and MAKE YOUR MOCK UP... 100% cotton canvas is a great fabric to use for mock-ups.

Pattern Link + Written Guide (For Members)
Pattern Link + Written Guide (For Non-Members)

Materials List

Synthetic Baleen (by the roll)
Synthetic Baleen (by the yard - I recommend buying around 10 yards)
Heavy weight 100% cotton interfacing 
100% cotton canvas
3/8 inch Ribbon 

Taffeta 
6 mm grommets
E6000
Rhinestones
Thread


Tools

Chalk Pen
Grommet Tool
Sewing machine