Corset Making for Beginners Online Course
Learn to Make Your Own Perfectly Fitted Underbust Corset
After teaching hundreds of students in-person over the past decade, we’re thrilled to announce that the online version of our Corset Making for Beginners Course is available to students worldwide, with the course commencing on January 1st, 2025!
If you are fascinated by the endless possibilities of good corsetry but don’t know how (or where) to begin learning this exquisite art, search no more – this course is the solution you’ve been searching for!
With professional corsetiere Lowana O’Shea as your guide, delve into the wonderful world of corsetry and emerge with the secrets, skills and inspiration you require to confidently create your own, real corsets that shape your waist and smooth your silhouette.
Upon completing this course, you’ll have fast-tracked your learning and sewn a perfectly fitted underbust corset (the ideal project to learn corset making properly) to style and wear however you like, proud in the knowledge that you created it from scratch and it fits and flatters you perfectly.
This course is the ‘real deal’: you will make a steel boned corset with busk, learning proper corset construction methods (suitable for all kinds of corsetry).
In this course you will learn how to achieve a perfect fit and come away with a personalized pattern so after attending the course you’ll be able to make more corsets for yourself with your new skills. Plus, with lifetime access to the course you can learn at your own pace and refer back to the lessons at any time.
If you’ve always wanted to learn corset making, or you’ve made corsets before but not had them turn out how you imagined, then join Lowana in the New Year and learn a set of skills that will empower you to craft your own beautiful bespoke corsets.
Our “Gold” Course Access is limited and filling up fast, so book now to secure your spot and discover the secrets to creating professional corsets that fit you flawlessly.
In This Online Course You Will:
Make a Custom Underbust Corset: The perfect project to master the basics and learn essential corset making skills, ensuring a strong foundation for your corset making journey.
Achieve a Perfect Fit, Every Time: Discover techniques to achieve a flawless fit, tailored to your unique body shape (yes, perfectly fitting corsets are possible for all shapes and sizes!)
Received Detailed Guidance: Follow along with easy-to-understand instructions and eliminate guesswork from your corset making projects.
Save Money: Avoid the cost of making expensive mistakes trying to learn corset making on your own by being guided through the entire process, step-by-step.
Overcome Challenges: Tackle fit issues and sewing hurdles with expert tips and support. Say goodbye to the frustration of making mistakes on your own, and hello to the feeling of success when you learn how to prevent and fix mistakes.
Save Time: Take years off your corset making learning journey and achieve a high level of craftsmanship sooner.
Gain Lifetime Skills: Learn sewing and fitting skills that will serve you for years, elevating your abilities across all areas of your sewing (not just your corset making).
Join a Community: Connect with like-minded people who share your passion for sewing and corset making, in a dedicated course forum.
Achieve Professional Results: Gain the knowledge and skills to make corsets that rival those made by seasoned professionals.
Receive Lifetime Access: So you can enjoy the convenience of learning at your own pace and refer to the course at anytime.
Your Teacher
Your teacher, Lowana O'Shea. Photography © Elke Meitzel
Your Teacher
Your teacher is Lowana O’Shea – the passionate and creative force behind Vanyanís (established in 2008). Lowana has been creating custom corsetry since 2003 and her meticulous attention to detail and ability to get the perfect fit has helped to make her a pioneer in the field. Lowana is a full-time corsetiere, with the unique advantage of having made bespoke corsets for just about every body type, ensuring that her professional expertise can be handed to you, her students.
Lowana O’Shea founded the Vanyanís School of Couture in 2014 out of a deep-seated passion for sewing and a desire to empower individuals to create their own bespoke garments. She recognized that while bespoke clothing is often out of reach for many due to its cost, learning to sew offers a pathway to crafting a beautifully fitted and personalized wardrobe. By imparting the specialist skills she has honed over decades, Lowana ensures that each student leaves with the confidence and ability to transform fabric into art.
Since 2017, Lowana has also been working as a mentor and writer for Foundations Revealed where she supports makers online. Her love of corsetry, and perseverance through years of self education in her craft make her a passionate and enthusiastic teacher.
“My Favourite part of the class was Lowana’s teaching – her knowledge, tips and encouragement.” – Tara Moss, author.
“Anyone interested in corsets should try this.”
– Tara Moss
Gallery
The photos featured here are of students (and their work), who have participated in our in-person courses. Whilst this is the first time we are offering this online course, these photos show the experiences and results students have achieved under Lowana’s guidance. We’re excited to see what wonderful creations students create in the online Corset Making for Beginners course.
“This course built my confidence.
The most valuable sewing
course I’ve ever done.”
Student Testimonials
The testimonials featured here are from students who have participated in our in-person courses. Whilst this is the first time we are offering this online course, these testimonials capture the experiences and transformative learning outcomes students have achieved under Lowana’s guidance. We’re excited to bring the same level of expertise and support to the online version of Corset Making for Beginners, ensuring a valuable and engaging experience for all participants.
“Anyone interested in corsets should try this.”
“I felt good. It was very challenging, but a nice environment”
“My Favourite part of the class was Lowana’s teaching – her knowledge, tips and encouragement.”
Tara MossAuthor“Lowana’s technique and guidance took my work from ‘ok’ to ‘great’…. she took years off my learning.”
(Elinor later went on to WIN the Foundations Revealed 2017 Competition in the Beginner’s category!)
Elinor Lloyd-PhilippsBeginner's Corsetry CourseLowana is patient and kind and a great problem solver, and teacher. I can’t wait to come back for the next learning experience!
StudentBeginner's Corsetry CourseWonderful teaching atmosphere – I come away feeling very proud of myself!
StudentBeginner's Corsetry Course“The most valuable thing I learnt was that everything can be fixed; there’s no such thing as perfection.”
“Lowana O’Shea has a never-ending supply of patience.”
SharelynBeginner's Corsetry CourseThe teacher was very informative, passionate and easy to understand. She took us, step by step, through each stage, and assisted each student, one-on-one.
StudentBeginner's Corsetry Course“I really hope I can go back sometime soon and do another course and I would absolutely recommend this course to anyone wanting to learn about corsets and a great few days with lovely Lowana, the best morning & arvo tea, great conversation and laughter and so much sewing!”
MelissaMiss Meli DesignsVery professional and well worth the fee. Wonderful hospitality and such generosity with your knowledge.
StudentBeginner's Corsetry CourseThe most valuable thing I learnt was covering ‘back squidge’ and curving the pattern piece. There were so many tips and tricks, I couldn’t list them all!
StudentBeginner's Corsetry CourseA phenomenal amount of information shared in a digestible way. It is very well done. I will recommend it and will definitely be back!
StudentBeginner's Corsetry Course
“A phenomenal amount of information
shared in a digestible way.
It is very well done.”
Course Information
Course Outcome
Upon completing Corset Making for Beginners you will have made a single layer underbust corset that fits you, gaining the knowledge and confidence to create more waist-shaping corsets on your own. You’ll learn the foundations of great corset making, setting you up for future success in your corset making journey.
You will fast-track your learning and gain skills in: fitting and adjusting your corset pattern, busk and eyelet insertion, how to work with steel boning, tried and tested corset construction methods that will ensure your corset will withstand frequent wear, and much, much more!
Course Content
This course has been divided into 8 modules, which are delivered over 10 weeks (so you get extra time to fit your mock-ups). With lifetime access to the course you can complete the course at your own pace. You’ll make an underbust corset out of a single layer of fabric.
The course curriculum has been designed to teach you a vast amount of information, in an ease-to-digest way. Instructions are delivered step-by-step so you don’t get overwhelmed. By the end of the course you’ll be amazed at what you’ve achieved!
Course Modules
Module 1 – Welcome
- What is a corset?
- Corset terminology
- How to take your measurements
- Corset pattern:
How to choose the right size
When/why/how to modify it) - Materials and tools lists
- Supplier recommendations
Module 2 – Making your mock-up
- Mock-up mindset
- The best mock-up materials
- How to prepare and accurately cut out your mock-up
- How to correctly transfer pattern markings to your fabric
- How to sew a functional mock-up
- How to use steel boning in your mock-up
Module 3 – Fitting your mock-up
- How to get the perfect fit
- How a corset should look and feel
- How to lace up a corset
- Learn how to conquer many fitting issues
- How to fit yourself, by yourself
- Watch recorded fitting sessions of a diverse group of fit models and learn how assess and fix fit
Module 4 – Adjusting your patten
- Pattern management
- How to transfer changes after fittings
- How to accurately transfer changes from your mock-up to your pattern
- How to true seams and refine your pattern so it’s ready-to-use
- How to add seam allowances
Module 5 – Assembling your corset
- How to prepare and accurately cut out your final fabric
- Optional: making a lining
- How to prepare facings for a neat finish
- How to sew the panels together so the corset is the right size
- Neat topstitching
Module 6 – Inserting the busk
- What is a busk?
- What materials and tools you’ll need
- The Vanyanís method of how to neatly insert a busk, guaranteeing a professional finish (without fabric pulling or facings showing) – it works the first time!
Module 7 – Bone channels and eyelets
- Learn the Vanyanís method for neat and strong channels
- How to calculate channel width
- What to use for bone channels
- How many bones do you need?
- How to attach a waist tape
- How to perfectly set two-part eyelets
Module 8 – Boning and binding
- How to make your own bias binding
- How to sew neat binding with tidy corners
- Optional: How to attach a lining
- How to measure, prepare and insert spiral and flat steel boning
- Tips and tricks for a professional finish
- Lacing up your corset
Course Format
The Corset Making for Beginners course is primarily delivered through video format, combining recorded demonstrations and narrated presentations to offer a comprehensive learning experience. The course modules (released weekly) are not delivered live, so you can go through the learning materials whenever best suits your schedule.
The video format allows you to visually grasp each step of the corset making process, making it easier to understand complex techniques and replicate them with confidence. While the course primarily focuses on video instruction, it includes some written materials to reinforce your learning. Throughout the course, you’ll have access to downloadable worksheets designed to support your progress. These worksheets can be printed and used as handy references and guides as you work on your projects.
This multimedia approach ensures that you receive a balanced mix of visual and written instruction, catering to various learning preferences. By blending recorded demonstrations with instructional videos and supplementary written resources, the course provides a robust platform for aspiring corset makers to develop their skills.
Tools and Materials
This course includes tuition only. Students will need to purchase materials and tools separately.
In this course you’ll learn all about the materials and tools you’ll need to create high-quality corsets. The information is designed to help you identify what is essential (and what is just “nice to have”). This will help you to make informed decisions about the tools and materials you invest in.
With the knowledge of what gives the best results, you’ll avoid wasting money on supplies that aren’t suitable for making professional corsets. This will set you up for success from the very start, and save you money long term.
At the start of December 2024 you’ll receive a list of reputable suppliers as well as a list of the required materials and tools that you’ll need to make your own corset. This will give you plenty of time to gather everything you need before the course commences on 1st January 2025 (and you could even add some items to your Christmas wishlists, if you want!).
Q&A Sessions
In this course, “Gold” students will enjoy exclusive access to 8 live weekly Q&A video sessions (scheduled during January and February 2025), offering you a unique chance to interact directly with Lowana, your teacher.
These sessions are designed to deepen your understanding of corset making, allowing you to ask questions about anything included in the course. Questions can be submitted in advance or asked live, ensuring comprehensive support tailored to your learning needs. Each session is recorded, providing the flexibility to revisit the sessions whenever you want.
“Silver” students benefit by accessing these session recordings, gaining insights from the questions asked by the “Gold” students. This allows you to learn from a wide range of questions, enhancing your understanding through shared knowledge. These Q&A sessions foster a collaborative learning environment, enabling all “Silver” and “Gold” to be supported throughout the course.
Course Forums
This course offers integrated online forums, ensuring a distraction-free environment where all corset learning resources are conveniently located in one place.
Both “Silver” and “Gold” students can access a community forum which is designed as both a social space and a platform for discussing course content. You can share your progress, exchange sewing tips and tricks, and talk about corset making.
“Gold” students enjoy additional access to an exclusive “Gold Forum” for one year, where they can interact directly with Lowana, your teacher. This forum provides a unique opportunity to ask questions about course content and receive personalized feedback on your progress. It’s an invaluable resource for those seeking direct teacher interaction.
The forums are designed to promote skill sharing amongst students, creating a helpful and friendly resource for all aspiring corset makers.
Course Dates
The course commences on the 1st of January 2025, with the 8 modules being released over 9 weeks (a ‘break week’ has been scheduled in to give you extra time to fit your mock-ups, or catch up if life gets in the way).
The 8 live Q&A sessions will be scheduled during January and February 2025.
You are welcome to follow along with the course content each week and make your bespoke corset alongside the other students and finish your corset by the end of February 2025. Or, with lifetime access to the course, you can complete the course whenever it suits you.
FREE Corset Pattern Included
Receive a copy of our digital Vanyanís Aeryn underbust pattern (RRP $24) as part of this course. Available in corset sizes 18″ to 44″ it can fit natural (uncorseted) waists of 20″ to 50″ (if you are outside this range of measurements just contact us and we’ll help you).
It has a curvy silhouette with a lovely sweetheart shape at the upper back. The back panels have been drafted to create a smooth silhouette and eliminate any “back overspill”. This pattern creates a beautiful corset with a dramatic shape.
Originally developed for the in-person version of this course, this pattern has fast become popular and has proven to be a huge success with all who’ve tried it.
Achieve a Perfect Fit
Achieving a perfect fit for your corset is one of the hardest challenges of making your own corsets. In this course, the process of fitting has been demystified and made easy, ensuring you achieve a flawless fit every time.
You will learn from a series of recorded fitting sessions. We’ve included a diverse range of fit models, representing various body shapes and sizes, with custom mock-ups crafted for each. Watch as each mock-up is first assessed (to understand how a corset should fit) and then see how each fitting issue is corrected via a recorded fitting session.
Additionally, the course includes videos that demonstrate how to fit yourself, by yourself (yes, it’s possible!). These resources ensure that you can achieve a perfect fit on your own, unlocking new levels of confidence and skill in your corset-making journey.
“Lowana took my work from ‘ok’ to ‘great’.
She took years off my learning.”
Student Requirements
Student Skill Level
Students must already have at least beginner to intermediate sewing skills and some experience with working with clothing patterns. Whether you are new to sewing or are an experienced maker, this course will teach you the foundations of good corset making. (Please note that this course does not include tuition on basic sewing skills.) If you have not made a corset before, or have tried and not achieved the desired result, then this course is for you.
Corset making skills can be applied to other areas of fashion (such as structured evening or bridal gowns) and our students consistently find that their overall sewing ability improves after attending this course. Our students have varied amounts of experience; some are studying fashion, some are hobbyists and others are professional makers looking to learn a new skill. Whatever your background, you’ll learn a lot from this course.
What You’ll Need
In order to complete this course you will need access to a sewing machine and be confident in the basic use of it. It is always easier to learn a new skill on a machine you are familiar with. Please ensure your machine is in good working order (recently serviced, if possible!).
A full materials and tools list will be sent out to students at the start of December 2024, to ensure you have time to collect the supplies you’ll need to make your corset. Students will be provided with links to recommended suppliers so you know where to get everything you need.
Student Code of Conduct
When you enroll in this online course, you agree to the following conditions: course access is strictly for one student only, and sharing login credentials with others is prohibited. Any breach of this policy, including sharing logins, will result in immediate loss of course access without a refund. Additionally, all course materials and information provided are intended solely for your personal learning. You agree not to share, distribute, or reproduce any course content in any form. By adhering to these terms, you contribute to a respectful and secure learning environment for all participants.
Course Forum Etiquette
The course forums are designed to be both a social space as well as somewhere to discuss corset making. You are welcome to share your course progress, sewing tips and tricks, and links to interesting resources while also engaging in discussions about the course content. Skill sharing is encouraged between students and the hope is that the forums become a helpful and friendly resource for you all.
A few housekeeping rules: please respect the privacy of the forums by keeping all discussions and information shared in confidence (unless you obtain permission from the original poster to share elsewhere). Our forums are an inclusive and body-positive space, and we appreciate your efforts in maintaining a supportive, friendly and respectful environment. Thank you all in advance for your contributions to making the forums a positive and enriching environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials will I need?
You’ll receive a detailed list of the essential materials and tools at the start of December, so there’s time for you to order your supplies before the course starts on January 1st, 2025.
What if I need help during the course?
If you’d like to be supported during this course and have access to Lowana (the teacher) so you can get your questions answered, then joining at the “Gold” tier will give you lots of opportunities to get help throughout the course. There will be a weekly live group Q&A session after each of the 8 modules, hosted by Lowana. These sessions are recorded so you’ll be able watch the replays if you can’t attend the Q&A sessions live. At the “Gold” tier you’ll also have access to a private forum where you can get help directly from Lowana.
If you join the “Silver” tier you’ll be able to post in the community forum and possibly get feedback from the other students. You’ll be able to watch the recordings of the Q&A sessions and learn from other people’s questions. At this level there is no direct interaction with Lowana, so if you’re the sort of learner who benefits from working closely with a teacher, then do consider joining the “Gold” tier.
How long will it be available once purchased?
Forever! This course comes with lifetime access to the educational materials so you can enjoy the convenience of learning at your own pace and refer to the course at anytime.
Would it be possible to make a historical corset?
No, not during this course. The content has been especially prepared to gradually build your knowledge and prevent overwhelm as you learn new skills. The course has been set up so that each student is working on the same project, ensuring that the step-by-step instructions are in a logical order, and apply to everyone.
As there is an element of coaching to this course (at the “Gold” tier level), it will work best and ensure everyone really absorbs the information if the coaching is about the one project.
After completing the course you would be able to go on and tackle more ambitious projects (like historical corsets) with the confidence and skills you’ve gained during this course.
Do I have to pay for monthly access?
No, this course only has a one time fee and is NOT a subscription of any kind.
Will there be a help forum to ask questions?
Yes, there is! At the “Gold” tier you’ll have access to a private “Gold” forum where you can ask the teacher questions directly.
Is it a pre-recorded class or will it be a live class on specific days?
The course is made up of pre-recorded content. One module (comprising of multiple lessons) will be released each week, but you will be able to work through the content whenever suits you.
The “Gold” tier will have access to 8 weekly live Q&A sessions that will run via Zoom (video) meetings. The date and time of these sessions will be announced closer to the time. You’ll be able to send your questions in ahead of these sessions if you wish, so if you can’t attend live you can still have your question answered and you can watch the replay.
Can we watch the lessons more than once?
Yes, you can! You’ll get lifetime access to the course content and you are welcome to watch and rewatch the learning materials as many times as you want.
Course Pricing
Our Corset Making for Beginners Online Course offers two distinct pricing tiers, catering to a range of learning preferences and needs.
“Silver” Access: Independent Learning
Ideal for self-directed learners, “Silver” course access provides you with the foundational resources necessary to master corset making independently. This tier includes lifetime access to the 2025 version of the course, ensuring you can revisit the content whenever you wish. Engage with fellow students and makers through our community forum, where you can share your progress and discuss the course. Additionally, “Silver” students will have access to recordings of Q&A sessions, allowing you to learn from others’ questions (without direct teacher interaction).
“Gold” Access: Premium Support
For those seeking more personalized guidance, “Gold” course access offers a comprehensive and interactive learning experience. “Gold” access includes lifetime access to all current and future versions of the course. Benefit from direct interaction with Lowana (your mentor and teacher) for one year via a private “Gold” forum, designed for group mentoring and deeper engagement on course content. “Gold” students will also enjoy 8 weekly live Q&A sessions, providing you with opportunities to ask questions directly and later access the session recordings for continued learning.
Choose the tier that best aligns with your learning style and goals, and embark on your journey to master the art of corset making.
“Silver” Course Access
$199 USD Pay in full
“Silver” Payment Plan
$62 USD
You can find our ‘Payment Plan’ policy, here.
“Gold” Course Access
$398 USD Pay in full
“Gold” Payment Plan
$124 USD
Scholarships
Scholarship Applications
We are excited to offer a limited number of scholarships for our Corset Making for Beginners Online Course, designed to support makers from disadvantaged backgrounds, who genuinely would not be able to access a course like this without help. We believe in fostering a diverse community within the corset making space and providing opportunities for all passionate creators to learn and grow.
How to Apply
To apply for a scholarship, simply send an email to info@vanyanis.com with the subject “Scholarship Application”, detailing these three key points:
- Your Sewing and Corset Making Journey: Share your journey with sewing and corsetry so far, whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience.
- Impact on Your Life: Explain how gaining access to this course would transform your life. We want to understand your dreams and goals in the world of corset making.
- Your Dream Corset: Describe your dream corset you’d love to create. What does it look like, and why is it special to you?
Support the Scholarship Fund
If you wish to help us offer more scholarships, you can contribute to our scholarship fund. Please contact us via email to discuss donation options. Your support can make a significant difference in expanding access to this enriching learning experience.
Scholarship Details
Scholarships grant successful applicants free lifetime access to the course, allowing you to learn at your own pace and revisit content as needed. (Scholarships do not include any physical materials or tools.)
The number of scholarships awarded is linked to the number of paid enrolments. This course is created and taught by a single instructor, who balances this passion with family responsibilities, so there is a limit to how many free scholarships can be given.
Applications will be reviewed prior to the course commencing, and you will be advised if your application is successful or not during December 2024. All decisions are final. If you are not successful this time you can let us know if you’d like your application to be filed and considered again in any future opportunities.
Available Scholarships
As of December 2024 Vanyanís has sponsored three scholarships (tuition only) for the January 2025 course. When the “Gold” access is fully booked, another scholarship place will open up.
In addition, NZ Corsetry have kindly sponsored one ‘Silver’ scholarship along with a material kit that they will be providing to the recipient, so that there will be no financial barriers to the student.
