Mounting Historic Dress for Display

Mounting Historic Dress for Display

Text copyright © Susana Fajardo, Lara Flecker, Sam Gatley and Keira Miller
All images courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London

This booklet has been produced to accompany a two-part course of the same name held at The
Clothworkers’ Centre for the Study and Conservation of Textiles and Fashion, V&A, London, and also at
the Fashion Museum, Bath and at the Gallery of Costume, Manchester, in 2014-2015. We hope to repeat
the course at other museums. The course is one of a series of training opportunities produced in
collaboration between DATS and the V&A, funded by the Arts Council England’s Subject Specialists
Network fund.

The purpose of the course is designed to teach the fundamentals techniques required to mount historic
dress for display and photography, and to put these into practice with the guidance and support of
experienced tutors. This booklet will share knowledge communicated in the workshops with colleagues
and the wider public.

Other workshops/booklets in the series:

Identifying Handmade and Machine Lace (2007)

Identifying Textile Types and Weaves, 1750 -1950 (2007 & 2012)
Identifying Printed Textiles in Dress 1740 – 1890 (2007 & 2012)
Identifying Fibres and Fabrics (2012)
Identifying Hand-made Lace (2013)

Front cover image: T.27-2006. Block-printed day dress worn by Sarah Maria Wright for her marriage to farm-labourer Daniel
Neal, 27th July 1841.

2
Mounting Historic Dress for Display

Contents Page

1. Introduction 5

2. General Guidelines for the Safe Handling of Costume and Textiles 6

Susana Farjado

General Guidelines 6
Health and Safety 8
Textile and Dress Guidelines 9
Examples of Handling and Packing for Short Distances 12
Recognising Weakness 13

3. Measuring Costumes and Selecting Mannequins 14

Lara Flecker

Selecting mannequins or figures 14

Measuring costumes and figures 16
Costume measurement form 20
Torso measurement form 21
The quick toile method 22

4. Padding and covering a dress stand 24

Sam Gatley

Tips and templates for fitting the costume onto the figure 25
Padding a dress stand with polyester wadding 28
Covering the stand with stretch cotton jersey 33
Creating historic female body shapes – the 18th century 38
– the 19th century 42

5. Arms, Petticoats and Underpinnings 47

Keira Miller

Padded arms 49
Tube petticoats 56
Trouser supports 58
Net petticoats 61
Silk top skirts 65
A brief history of 18th century skirt shapes 67
A brief history of 19th century skirt shapes 68

3
Contents (cont’d) Page

6. Suppliers List 69

7. Whaley’s of Bradford product codes 70

8. Bibliography 71

9. Useful websites 71

10. List of contributors 71

11. Acknowledgments 74

4
Mounting Historic Dress for Display
Introduction

Mounting historic dress can be challenging even for experienced dress curators and conservators. This
booklet and the accompanying course and loans box have been developed to provide a starting point for
colleagues to develop their practical skills to enable them to interpret their collections for their
audiences.

The course is intended to help participants develop the necessary skills and areas of knowledge:

 Best practice in handling historic dress and textiles.

 How to assess an object for damage and areas of stress, and how to document this.

 How to assess if an object is suitable for display and when remedial conservation may be
necessary, and when to bring in a conservator.

 How to accurately measure an object.

 How to choose the style and nature of a support/mount/figure.

 How to make a toile.

 How to start researching the correct silhouette, what underpinnings are required and how to
design and make them.

 How to pad a figure and cover with suitable fabric.

 Knowing which stitches to use and how to execute them.

 Which conservation standard materials to use and where to purchase them from.

After completing the course we hope that delegates will be able to approach display of historic dress
with greater confidence.

This booklet will be available to download free of charge from the DATS website
(www.dressandtextilespecialists.org.uk) from Summer 2015.

A loans box has been developed to work alongside this booklet giving people the chance to examine
sample underpinnings and their patterns, swatch samples of conservation-grade materials and a copy of
Lara Flecker’s book, A Practical Guide to Costume Mounting. This can be booked via the DATS’ website
(www.dressandtextilespecialists.org.uk) from Summer 2015, free of charge, but borrowers are
responsible for all postage and insurance costs.

Jenny Lister (ACE liaison officer, DATS and Curator, Textiles and Fashion, V&A)
Caro Whitehead (freelance dress and textiles curator)

5
General Guidelines for the Safe Handling of Costume and Textiles
Susana Fajardo

Inappropriate handling is one of the main causes of damage to museum objects. As a rule, handling
should be kept to a minimum. No matter how small a distance you are transferring objects over, the risk
of any damage occurring can be reduced by good preparation and following the procedures outlined
below.

General Guidelines

Before you start

Are you a risk? Check that personal effects such as loose clothing, long hair or jewellery will not
be a hazard. Rings, bracelets, watches, long necklaces, long hair, ties and
identity passes should be removed as they may interfere with objects. Wearing
flat comfortable shoes with non-slip soles should prevent any risk of slipping or
tripping on polished or uneven surfaces.

Plan the route The route should be checked to ensure that it is free of obstacles such as
furniture, cables or barriers. It is important that doorways are wide enough,
steps are easily negotiable, everywhere is well lit and lifts that you are planning
to use are operating. If the route includes areas open to the public try to avoid
them or use quiet routes. Some objects are better moved when the museum is
closed to the public. Never negotiate opening or closing doors while carrying
objects, put the object down and wedge the door.

Access The end location should also be checked to confirm that it is suitably prepared
to receive objects. A set of steps with a platform and support rail should be used
for objects on high shelves. In this situation a second person should be available
to pass the object to.

Never alone Travel in twos or more, one person will have hands free to open doors, position
themselves in between the traveling object and the public, and be able to fetch
or move anything or anyone that is not where it/they are supposed to be.

Container/Trolley If an object is being moved from one room to another, it should be placed in a
container. This is much safer and easier than carrying the object in your hands.
A padded box will provide good protection. Arrange the appropriate container
and trolley for your object. For example, a tray or a basket, a table top trolley, A-
frame or U-shaped trolley. No parts of an object should be allowed to overhang
the container where they might catch or knock against something. The weight
should be spread evenly over the container. It is a good idea to count objects in

6
 and out of the container to ensure small objects or fragments do not get
overlooked.

Check the object

Condition & structure Examine the object carefully before handling to determine if it has any
structural weaknesses, previous damage or fragile surfaces. If in doubt consult
a conservator. An object may consist of multiple parts. If so, consider if it is safer
for those parts to travel together or separate. The object should travel in a
suitable orientation, e.g. vertical or horizontal.

Size & weight The weight and shape of the object will dictate how many people and the type
of equipment necessary to lift and move it safely. Some particularly large, heavy
or awkward objects may require more than one person to lift them or the help
of other members of staff. It is important that the lifting operation is performed
in unison – so count it in – e.g. ‘1, 2, 3 lift’.

Handling

Don’t touch! The fundamental rule should always be: keep handling to a minimum.

Gloves Different materials have different requirements. Some objects will require use
of nitrile gloves OR no gloves. Avoid latex gloves for metal objects or objects
with metal parts; latex contains sulphur which can cause tarnishing. Avoid
cotton/textile gloves as they can be slippery and catch. Non-slip black dots on
material gloves can leach plasticisers and leave marks.

Support Only one object should be lifted at a time with both hands. The main body
should generally be supported with one hand below its centre of gravity, using
the other hand to steady it. Support materials should be of conservation grade
(meaning they should not chemically interact with the object or leave residues).
Acid free tissue paper wads can be used, as can other suitable materials,
including Plastazote®, polyethylene foam and Tyvek®. (Bubble wrap, newspaper
or pressure sensitive tape should never be used in contact with an object).

Space When removing objects from a store or case, the path should be made clear by
moving other objects out of the way. Ensure that larger objects do not touch
the top or sides of the case/storage space. No object should be lifted over
another. Be aware of shelf height and surrounding objects, concentrate when
holding an object!

Tip It is safer to use pencils around objects rather than pens as ink is much more
problematic to remove in case of accidental staining.

7
Health and Safety

Manual handling

Lift wisely with a straight back, lift using your legs keeping the centre of gravity close to you. Do not
move anything that you are not confident moving. Heavy /awkward/complex objects might need to be
moved by more than one person or by other members of staff (e.g. Front of House) using equipment
with trained operators.

Hazards in objects

Objects in many museum collections can pose health and safety hazards.

Examples

Hazards can be physical hazards in the form of sharps (glass, blade weapons, and loaded firearms).
Commonly found inherent hazards include heavy metals, such as lead or mercury in pigments.
Inadvertent health hazards such as mould spores and rodent excrement may also be present. Acquired
hazards vary, e.g. in the past museums applied pest-control materials containing arsenic, mercury, 1,4-
dichlorobenzene (para-dichlorobenzene or PDB), and ethylene oxide. Less commonly found hazards
include radioactive substances (uranium salts as a glass colourant), organic poisons (poison arrows), and
explosive ordnance (incendiary bomb).

Concerns?

If in doubt about handling an object with regards to your or anyone else’s health and safety, check your
institution’s Hazards in Objects Policy and Health and Safety Policy.

8
Textile and Dress Guidelines

Condition & structure

Before handling ascertain overall condition, establish whether areas of concern are local or widespread.

 Textiles cover a wide variety of objects: flat textiles (from tapestries to a piece of lace), 3
dimensional objects (e.g. costumes), composite objects, upholstered furniture, and costume
accessories.

 Fragile by nature, their condition, structure and form can be deteriorated by:
o previous damage (e.g. mechanical: poor handling,
poor storage, wear and tear);
o soiling and stains which are often acidic and can make a textile brittle;
o biological damage (insects, rodents and micro-organisms);
o visible and invisible-light UV and infra-RED radiation(loss of colour, weakened
fibres, desiccation, and yellowing);
o fluctuation of Relative Humidity (RH) and Temperature(drying and
embrittlement under low RH conditions to corrosion, staining and migration of
dyes under high RH conditions);
o atmospheric pollutants (e.g. dust particulate deposition);
o structural weakness due to original manufacture and design (e.g. metal salts
from textile finishes and after treatments, degradation of decorative printed
and painted layers, heavily beaded dresses);
o old repairs, (e.g. coarse and cobbled);
o previous conservation treatments (e.g. failing past adhesive treatments, failing
conservation materials.

Gloves - Nitrile or vinyl gloves:

 Although the use of nitrile is generally recommended. In some case such as the dressing and
undressing of costumes clean hands which have just been washed is preferred.

 Always use gloves when metal components are present (metal threads, metal decorations, and
metal tissue fabric) as fingerprints can damage and etch metallic finishes.

 Nitrile or vinyl gloves are mandatory PPE (personal protective equipment) when handling
objects with hazardous substances, e.g. felt hats which may contain mercury, some painted
textiles, and feather and fur trims which may contain traces of pesticides).

Support

 Any textile or costume must always be supported sufficiently to avoid any risk of damage under
its own weight. This becomes particularly important when moving them.

9
  The condition of the object will determine whether the textile or costume is supported vertically
or horizontally, preferably is it best to support textiles and costumes as horizontally as it is
possible.

 Time span is crucial: the longer the support is required for the greater or more robust the
support should be.

 Flat textiles can be supported flat on padded boards, Correx® or acid-free-card boards, or rolled.
Large flat textiles can be rolled on sufficiently robust cylindrical tubes to withstand the weight
of the object and to avoid the warping of the tube. Use Plastazote® blocks to support the rolled
object enough to avoid risk of crushing.

 When rolling is not possible a ‘concertina’ method is applicable, making sure all folds are padded
and all layers interleaved.

 For costumes, support the object in the most fragile areas (large holes, splits, areas of any heavy
decoration attached). If the costume is large and heavy one person lifts the costume by placing
the hands inside the shoulders and the other supports lower section of the costume.

 If possible, when mounting, place the costume on/ off one shoulder/ arm at a time. When both
arms need to be dressed simultaneously, do so with great care and a gentle easing action;

 Conservation made ‘bean-bags’ (cotton jersey filled with polystyrene beads) are useful when
supporting small 3 dimensional objects.

 When moving or lifting a dressed mannequin, hold from the base and the neck. Move slowly
and avoid tilting the mannequin.

Space

Check object size and prepare a large enough space in which to work: ensure surface is clean, lay acid-
free tissue or polythene sheeting and a cushioning layer if necessary. Make sure there is adequate light
to work.

Container/Trolley

 Pad hard ridges of metal trolley with Plastazote®.

 Use weights to restrain objects whilst moving.

 Line boxes and trays with acid free tissue, add cushioning if necessary.

 Large flat textiles are best moved rolled.

 Smaller flat textiles can be stacked in a tray or flat container to move.

10
  Containers for 3 dimensional textile objects should be large enough to avoid stacking. Allow
sufficient room for padding and protect the object securely.

 Dressed mannequins can be moved in groups (in a trolley), or individually (in a skate or slide).

 Protect the train in costumes on acid free tissue or a dust sheet on the base of the trolley, or
wrap the costume inside a protective custom made Tyvek® bag.

Health and Safety

Some potential hazards specific to textiles

Toxic gasses and vapours from ageing processes (e.g. early plastics), stains and accretions (residues of
organic products and or body decomposition products), the weight of particular objects (e.g. large rolled
flat textiles), awkwardly shaped objects (e.g. dressed mannequins which must kept upright when lifted),
working at height (e.g. installing large flat textiles), the presence of hazardous substances (e.g. lead,
arsenic, mercury), fungal growths (mould and mildew).

11
Examples of Handling and Packing for Short Distances

Flat textile on a board Flat textile rolled Flat textile concertina

Sufficient help at hand Moving costumes on a rail

Costumes on a padded hanger

Moving a mannequin Correct labelling when handling object with hazardous substances

12
Recognizing Weakness

Examples of areas of potential vulnerability to be aware of when examining and object

before handling

Pull in the weave. Carpet beetle damage Moth damage and frass

Fungal growth: Mould Fungal growth: Mildew Tapestry weave, Tapestry weave,
deposits can be black, are whitish growths stitched and step slits
blue, green or red interlocked slits

Corrosion of metal
caused by coating
on imitation
‘pearls’

Damage to
gelatine sequins
caused by
Silk ‘rose’ with
moisture.
Splits in red silk many splits, the
due to proximity to worst are
a heavy encapsulated but
embroidered panel are still vulnerable
& abrasion of
surface, and loss of
embroidery.
Missing diamanté stones from buckle on evening gown

13
Mounting Historic Dress for Display
Measuring Costumes and Selecting Mannequins Lara Flecker

Measuring a costume is not as straightforward as it sounds and it is important to be able to do this

accurately when mounting costumes for display. In particular this is crucial when selecting a figure for a
costume, whether recycling an old torso or purchasing one new. Size of a mannequin, however, is only
one part of its selection criteria and several other factors should be taken into consideration when
making decisions about costume mounts.

This section will include the following:

 Mannequin/figure selection;

 Measuring costumes and figures;

 A simple technique for making quick toiles.

Selecting mannequins

Mannequins and torsos come in many shapes, styles, sizes, finishes, materials and prices.

 When selecting a figure, consideration should be given to the following:

o the physical state of the costume;

o the display conditions;
o the structural stability of the figure;
o the adaptability of the figure;
o the aesthetic appeal of the figure;
o the cost of the figure;
o the pose of the figure;
o the fixtures and fittings of the figure;
o the materials the figure is made from.

 When mounting historic costume, a figure should be chosen that is significantly smaller than
the garment.

 Be aware that it can often take a long time for manufacture and delivery of figures.

Materials

 As a general rule avoid figures made from high-density urethane and polyurethane foams.

 As the substances used in the manufacture of mannequins and paints vary, it is impossible to
guarantee the stability of any material without proper testing. However, figures made from
14
 fibreglass, Plastazote®/Ethafoam®, buckram, Perspex®and wax are thought to be comparatively
safe, as are water-based emulsions and cellulose paints.

Customised figures

 Getting a figure custom made can be expensive and time consuming.

 It is usually a collaborative process requiring several fittings.

 Smaller alterations can be made to mannequins that are more affordable such as removing the
bust.

Dress stands

 Dress stands are widely used in many museums and galleries, including the V&A.

 Although the materials they are made from are not perfect, they have many advantages:

o They are cheap, sturdy and come in wide range of sizes;

o Arms, heads and even legs can be added if required;
o The fabric cover provides a ready-made foundation on to which padding can be
stitched;
o They are adaptable, making them easy to recycle for different displays and particularly
suitable for use with historical costume.

15
Measuring Costumes

General Notes

 Whenever possible take your own measurements of a costume, don’t rely on other people’s.

 When selecting modern figures for historic dress, always choose a figure that is considerably
smaller than the garment.

 Use the back nape to waist measurement to judge where the waist of a garment will sit when
dressed on the figure.

Practical tips

1. Lay the costume out on a clean surface with access to good light.

2. If possible use a narrow tape measure (approximately 1 cm wide).

3. Take measurements twice to get the most accurate reading.

4. Take vertical measurements from the outside of the costume.

5. If possible, take circumference measurements from the inside of the costume, where the
garment is at its smallest.

6. Circumference measurements should be supplemented with a position reference (i.e. where the
measurement was taken from in relation to the waist).

7. Ensure that measurements do not include button overlaps or placket openings.

8. Always estimate a back nape to waist measurement even if it is not evident from the costume.

16
 Where to Take Basic Garment and Figure Measurements

N.B. The numbers in the first column in the tables cross-reference with the numbers on the key of where
to take your measurements on page 19. Use the forms on pages 20-21 when taking these measurements.

Upper Torso and Arm Measurements

Measurements Location on a figure Location on a costume Reference position
1. Around waist The waist is usually the Usually easily recognisable by seam and
narrowest part of the figure dart shaping or the position of
between the hips and bust. waistbands.
The measurement is taken
around the entire waist
circumference.
2. Around bust or This measurement is taken The level of the bust can be located at Measure the reference
chest over the fullest part of the the farthest tip of the bust darts. If there position from bust line to
bust or chest, under the arms are no darts the measurement should be waistline
and across the back, keeping taken from just below the armhole.
the tape measure as level as
possible.
3. Around ribcage This measurement is taken Locating the level of the ribcage on a Measure the reference
directly under the bust, costume can be difficult. If it is unclear, position from ribcage to
around the body and across the measurement should be taken waistline.
the back, keeping the tape approximately 7 – 9cm below the bust
measure as level as possible. line.
4. Across back This is a flat measurement This measurement is taken in a straight
taken across the back of the line across the back of the costume, from
figure, from the crease of armhole seam to armhole seam. The
each arm, approx. 14 – 15cm measurement should be taken approx.
down from the shoulder 14 – 15 cm down from the shoulder point.
point.
5. Nape to back This is the distance from the Unless the costume is cut with a high
waist nape of the neck to the CB neckline, this measurement must be
waist. If uncertain where the estimated. To do this take the shoulder
nape is, drape a tape point to side waist measurement and
measure around the neck of add 4- 5cm, or use a nape to waist
the figure and allow it to fall estimator.
naturally. The nape can be
found where the bottom
edge of the tape measure
rests on the CB neck.
6. Length of This measurement is taken If the sleeve is straight, simulate an
arm/sleeve with the arm slightly bent. elbow by arranging it into a slight bend
Measure from the shoulder on the table. The measurement should
point, around the tip of the be taken from the sleeve head/shoulder
elbow to the wrist. point, around the tip of the elbow to the
cuff.
7. Around This measurement should be This measurement should be taken
wrist/cuff taken around the wrist. around the cuff or hem of the sleeve.

17
Lower Torso and Skirt Measurements

Measurements Location on a figure Location on a costume Reference Position

1. Around waist As with the upper torso When dealing with skirts that are
separate from the bodice, it is important
to take waist measurements for both.
Skirts usually have a waistband that
makes this measurement easy to take.
8. Around lower This measurement is taken Though the bottom is the fattest point Measure the reference
hip or bottom around the figure at the of the lower torso it is still sometimes position from the level
fattest part of the bottom. It difficult to locate on a costume. If this is of the bottom to the
can usually be found the case the measurement should be waistline
approximately 20cm below taken approximately 20cm below the
the line of the waist. line of the waist.
9. Front length of This measurement is taken This measurement is taken from the CF
skirt/leg from the CF waist of the waist of the costume to the hem.
figure to the top of the foot.
10. Back length of This measurement is taken This measurement is taken from the CB
skirt/leg from the CB waist to the waist of the costume to the hem and
floor. should include any skirt extension or
train.
11. Around hem of This comparative This measurement is taken around the
skirt/leg measurement can be taken hem of the skirt. If the costume includes
‘around the ankles’. a train, the around hem measurement
may be misleading. To gauge it more
accurately, lay the tape measure
horizontally across the train rather than
going around the outside edge.

18
Key: Where to Take Measurements

N.B. The numbers in the key cross-reference with the numbers in the first column of the previous tables
on pp 17-18.

19
Costume Measurement Form

Measurement Reference Position Notes

1. Around Waist

2. Around Bust or
chest

3. Around Ribcage

8. Around lower
hip or bottom

4. Across back

5. Nape to back
waist

6. Length of
arm/sleeve

7. Around
wrist/cuff

9. Front length of
skirt

10. Back length of

skirt

11. Around hem of

skirt

20
Torso Measurement Form

Measurement Reference Notes

Position
1. Around Waist

2. Around Bust or
chest

3. Around Ribcage

8. Around lower
hip or bottom

4. Across back

5. Nape to back
waist

21
The Quick Toile Method
Instructions

1. Before starting consider which parts of the costume you need to copy – generally only the bodice is
required.

2. Dress the costume on a figure and when necessary support with temporary padding.

3. Start at the centre front and cut a piece of tissue large enough to overlap the front panel. Using a ruler
and pencil, draw a line and mark as the straight of grain.

4. Lay the tissue over the panel matching the pencil line to the straight of grain. Hold the paper in place
by pinning to the neck of the figure. (A small piece of low tack masking tape can be substituted when
working on a solid figure.)

5. Repeat the same process for the panels at the centre back.

6. Cut tissue for the side panels. Mark on the straight of grain and position each piece over the bodice,
matching up the grain lines. To hold them in place, join them to the centre front and centre back panels
with pins, following the line of the seams.

7. Join the front and back pattern pieces together along the shoulder with pins.

8. Ease the paper around the neck and arms by tearing the tissue into short tabs.

9. Improve the shape and accuracy of the pattern by working down each seam line, repositioning the
pins and tightening up the tissue until it fits closely over the costume.

10. Using a soft pencil, trace the neck opening, armholes, hemline and seams onto the tissue pattern.
Remove the pattern from the costume, making sure that each panel is labelled before it is unpinned.

9. Even up the pattern as necessary and add balance marks to the seams.

10. Use the tissue pattern to make up a fabric toile. Alternatively, the pattern pieces can be stitched or
pinned together as they are and used as a paper toile.

22
Example of a quick toile pattern being taken from a dress

23
Mounting Historic Dress for Display
Padding and covering a dress stand Sam Gatley
Good padding of a dress stand is what forms the basis of a successful costume mount. The padding
performs two key functions in transforming limp textiles into 3-dimensional objects. The first of these is
to offer support to garments. Padding should follow the shape and size of the garment in a way that
supports the textile and does not introduce stress and strains into the fabric.

The second function is interpretive as padding is applied to simulate the fashionable body shape of the
period showing the garment to its best advantage.

This section will include the following:

 Tips and templates for fitting the costume onto the figure.

 Padding the figure with polyester wadding.

 Covering the figure in stretch cotton jersey.

24
Tips and templates for fitting the costume onto the figure

A Few Fitting Points to Watch Out For

Shoulders too narrow, the unsupported dress drops

drastically away at the shoulder.

Mannequin bust the in wrong position.

Dress sitting too low on the waist, particularly at the back,

preventing the waistband from sitting straight.

Sleeves unsupported and therefore sitting too low and too

far back. The fullness of the sleeve is in an incorrect position.

Skirt unsupported and therefore pulling the waistband out

of position. Also, not at the correct fullness, therefore hiding
the embroidery which should be a focal point.

25
26
Example of a torso padding diagram filled in

Costume

Project

Front

Back

27
Padding a Dress Stand with Polyester Wadding

Practical Instructions

You will need:

Polyester wadding
Dust mask *
Paper scissors
Curved needle
Thread
Glass headed pins

* Health & Safety warning: wadding is made from thermally bonded polyester fibres that get
everywhere - including your lungs! It is advisable to wear a dust mask when working with polyester
wadding and keep objects away from the area you are working in.

1: Begin padding the torso after an initial fitting of the garment/toile on a suitably sized dress stand and
detailed measurements of where padding needs to go has been recorded. (See fitting documents on
pages 26-27).

2: Have reference material to hand showing the silhouette of the period you are trying to replicate.

28
3: Approach the torso as distinct areas of the body. For example think about the stomach as separate to
the lower back. This will help to create a more realistic form than wrapping wadding around the torso
like a bandage would.

4: After assessing both your garment measurements and the torso shape decide on the area you are
working on and cut pieces of polyester wadding to roughly the right shape and size.

5: Soften the outline of your pieces by ‘feathering’ the edges using your fingertips. (This is more easily
achieved when working with the weave direction of the wadding).

29
6: Lay the feathered piece of wadding onto the torso and pin into position so that it is slightly taut. Use
large colourful glass headed pins that won’t get lost in the padding.

7: Attach the wadding onto the dress stand using a large herring bone stitch. This is easiest with a large
curved needle. Once stitched ensure all pins are removed.

8: To build body contours repeat this process with decreasing sized pieces of wadding until the desired
shape and size of each area of the body is formed.

30
9: Check the progress of the padding by measuring often, particularly at the bust, waist and nape to
waist. These dimensions offer a useful reference point for other measurements. If you are using a toile
you can have an unlimited number of fittings, but otherwise it is advisable to try the object on the
mount as little as possible.

10: Once you feel your padding is built to the desired shape and size you should protect the costume
from the wadding fibres with a protective temporary cover before fitting the garment.

31
Tips

 Always add padding to specific areas of the body. This will result in a more accurate shape and
a smoother finish.

 Use paper scissors when cutting wadding, as it will blunt the blade of good cloth scissors.

 It is also advisable to moisturise hands once you have finished working, as the skin becomes
dry when working with wadding (Take care not to touch objects with cream on hands!).

 Use a curved needle to stitch onto the dress stand.

 A pair of tights can be used as an effective temporary cover for fittings.

32
Covering a Padded Dress Stand with Stretch Jersey

Practical Instructions

You will need:

Cover fabric (one metre should be enough)
Glass headed pins
China-graph pencil or chalk
Fabric scissors
Tacking thread
Needle
Sewing machine

1: Ensure your chosen fabric has been scoured of chemicals. A hot machine wash without detergent
should remove most bleaches and treatments in the cloth and exhaust dyes in coloured fabrics.

2: Cut your fabric so there is ample to cover the front of the torso and another separate piece to cover the
back. Both pieces should have the warp running from neck to stomach on the mannequin.

33
3: Pin each side roughly to the mannequin ensuring the fabric grain runs straight from top to bottom of
the dress stand. The fabric should be pinned with the finished fabric side facing out.

4: At the waist of the torso, pinch the front and back pieces of fabric together and pin on both sides of
the figure.

5: Repeat pinching the fabric together until it is pinned fully along the lengths of both sides of the torso.

34
6: To ensure the cover is tight enough pin around the sides again, but inside the original pin line.

7: Once you are happy that the cover is tight, evenly stretched, and that your pinned side seams are
straight, cut away the excess fabric leaving approximately 2cm seam allowance.

8: Next, open out your cut edges at the torso sides and using a china-graph pencil, or chalk, mark the
position of the pins on the inside of the seam allowance. It is also a good idea to add ‘balance marks’ at
key points such as the waist, bust and shoulder.

35
9: Be sure to also mark the front and back pieces.

10: Once both cover edges are marked remove the pins and take the front and back off the dress stand.
Once removed place the pieces together with the topside of the fabric facing in.

11: Using your balance marks pin your cover together at these points first. Then line up your other marks
and further pin around the edges of the cover.

12: Stitch your cover together using an over-lock stitch or small zig-zag stitch. Follow your pencilled line
and ensure the cover is stretched out as you sew in order to avoid puckering etc. Take care not to hit pins
as you stitch as this will break the machine needle.

36
13: Cut the excess seam allowance off the cover as close to your stitch line as possible. Turn the cover so
the topside is facing out.

14: Tack your side seams down, this will stop them twisting when you place the cover onto the dress
stand and help to create a neat finish.

15: Dress the cover onto the torso ensuring the side seams are straight and the stretch tension of the
cover is even across the surface of the torso. It will help to pin the cover at the top and bottom of the
dress stand.

16: The bottom edge of the cover should be folded in under the dress stand, pinned and attached to the
original cover with large double thread tacking stitches.

37
Creating an 18th century body shape

Extract taken from: Lara Flecker’s book, A Practical Guide to Costume Mounting, (Butterworth-
Heinemann, 2007), pp. 80-81

A brief history of 18th century stays

During the 1700s, corsets were known as ‘stays’. Though there were some variations and developments

to the shape and style of this undergarment, the stays did not radically change during this period. For

the purposes of costume mounting, the basic body silhouette remains fairly constant until the last ten

years of the century. Stays were rigid in construction, stiffened with whalebone and made out of fabrics

such as cotton and linen. Below the level of the waist, the stays were slit into tabs, liberating the flesh

and preventing the stays from digging into the body.

The function of the stays was to mould the figure into the shape of an inverted cone, incorporating a

long, straight centre front line that finished in a point well below the level of the waist. The stays

effectively elevated the position of the bust, curbing the natural form, by flattening and displacing it

upwards. By the 1750s several curved bones had been added at the front of the stays to help control the

chest and compress it into a smooth bowed line. The back of the garment was cut high, keeping the

figure rigid and straight. This helped to draw the shoulders back, which in turn pushed the bust forward.

The waist was pulled in at the sides, reducing the width and making it appear smaller. The neatness of

the waist was further emphasised by the wearing of exaggerated panniers, side hoops and hip pads. This

basic silhouette and firm structure was maintained for the first two thirds of the century. With the

abandonment of the fashionable side hoops in the 1770s, changes to the bodice also began to occur. The

stays became less rigid and a slightly more fluid shape developed. During the 1780s the centre front

point of the bodice rose back up to the natural level of the waist and greater emphasis was placed on the

bust. By the mid 1790s the waistline had risen into the neo-classically inspired Empire line and lighter

stays were worn. These were usually less densely boned, with particularly narrow backs and enough

structure to lift and control the bust.

The techniques of applying padding to create an 18th century body shape

Without the use of structured underwear, the natural shape of the female figure is oval. Stays from the

18th century alter the body by pushing the sides of the upper torso inwards. Like a balloon, once the sides

38
are squeezed closer together, the front and back will begin to expand, changing the body from an oval to

a cylindrical shape. To alter a modern figure into this corseted silhouette, padding must be principally

applied to the front of the figure, leaving the sides above the waist relatively bare. Some padding should

also be added to the back to straighten the vertical line of the figure and to help create the characteristic

cylindrical shape. The original location and shape of the bust must be radically altered. The bust points

are raised and positioned closer together and the front chest considerably filled out, making the

shoulders appear to be pushed back. Padding should also be applied below the level of the waist to bulk

out the hips, where the tabs of the stays allowed the surplus flesh to bulge.

39
Mounting an 18th century corset

Dress stand before work Corset on dress stand before

padding

Dress stand padded to fit corset Corset on completed dress stand

40
 The techniques of applying padding to make an 18th Century shape

Bust points

Waist level

Bottom
level

Following your notes and measurements, start by raising

Mark key measurements onto the figure using pins,
the bust line and closing the bust points together to create
tacking or tapes.
a cleavage. Mark the new bust points with two small
circles of wadding approx. 6 cm diameter. Feather out the
wadding and pin and stitch into place. You can inflate the
bust points by stuffing the circles slightly with scraps of
wadding before stitching down.

Working with the new points, start to mould and build

up the bust with graded circles of wadding. To reduce
the prominence of the original bust, do not apply any
padding on top of it until it has been levelled off. Now build up the front of the figure to match the bust.
Start to mould the torso into a cylindrical shape by
applying the padding in graded pieces. Remember that
the angle of the vertical line from bust to waist is
straightened by an C18th corset.

Build out the back of the figure in the same way as the
front, keeping the shape as cylindrical as possible.
Additional padding will probably be needed to enlarge
the bottom.
Build up the hips of the figure. You may also need a small
amount of padding on the sides of the upper torso, but
try and keep this to a minimum, particularly in the waist.
41
Creating 19th century body shapes

Extract taken from: Lara Flecker’s book, A Practical Guide to Costume Mounting, )Butterworth-
Heinemann, 2007), pp. 85-86 & p. 90

A brief history of 19th century corsets

The evolution of corsetry during the 1800s was far more diverse than the previous century and

consequently changes to the female silhouette occur more frequently. The early years were marked by

the distinctive high-waisted dresses that had come into fashion at the end of the 18th century and

during this time lightweight stays were commonly worn to control the figure. The waistline continued to

rise, reaching its peak in 1815, gradually descending after this date. By the 1820s, additional triangular

gussets were inserted into the top of corsets, either side of the central busk, allowing a rounder more

separated bust shape to develop. To accommodate the fullness of the hips, gussets were also added to

the bottom of the corset, replacing the 18th century tabs. During the second half of the 1820s, the

waistline sank back to its natural level and corsets became more structured, with emphasis on a small

waist and a more curvaceous silhouette. This body shape, so typical of the 19th century, was assisted by

the hip and bust gussets, which allowed the figure to swell out above and below the increasingly

cinched-in waist.

This fashionable profile continued to develop throughout the 30s and 40s. Corsetry was improved by the

invention of metal eyelet holes in 1823, which enabled garments to be laced more tightly and efficiently,

forcing women’s figures into more exaggerated shapes. A slight drop in the level of the waistline during

the 1840s lent some variety to this period. By the 1850s skirt dimensions had become so enormous that

the waist of the figure could not fail to look small by comparison. As a result shorter and less substantial

corsets were adopted and tight lacing was allowed to relax to some extent. The waistline, which had

returned to its natural level during the 1850s, shifted once again early in the next decade, rising slightly

above the waist. During the 1870s this dropped back once more, to accommodate the longer close-fitting

bodices that were coming into fashion at this time.

By 1875 the cuirasse bodice had become fashionable and dresses were cut to fit tightly over the figure as

far down as the hips. To create an appropriate foundation for these garments, corsets were elaborately

cut and once again became longer and heavier. In about 1873 the spoon busk was introduced, curving

42
into the waist and out over the lower abdomen, forming a rounded plumpness at the front of the torso.

This body shape continued throughout most of the 1880s. With the bustle discarded, the final decade of

the century was marked by an alteration in the general silhouette. The female torso now lost some of its

curvaceousness and corsets were cut with a straight front. Particular emphasis was placed on a small

waist and to achieve this affect, underwear was more tightly laced than ever.

The techniques of applying padding to create 19th century body shapes

The general construction of corsets from the 19th century tends to focus on reducing the size of the

waist. This in turn increases the swell of the hips and bust, creating a far more voluptuous silhouette

compared to that of the previous century. In order to keep the waist looking as narrow as possible, when

adapting a figure, padding should be principally applied to the front and back of the torso, leaving the

side waist relatively free. As with the previous century the level of the bust is raised, but its shape is very

different. Rather than confining it with heavy bones, the introduction of gussets or shaping either side of

the central busk, gives the chest room for expansion. The bust points are therefore positioned further

apart and padding used to create a more independently defined shape. The construction of corsets over

the hips acts in a similar way and padding should be used in this area to build a smooth, rounded shape.

With the introduction of strapless corsets early in the century, the fashionable line of the shoulders

became more sloping. When necessary, padding can be used to adapt this part of the figure.

1800s-1820s: The high waists of the empire line tend to add confusion to this transition period.

Borrowing from the previous century, costumes are often cut astonishingly narrow across the back, with

a full and rounded bust. The circumference of the diaphragm can also be tiny, making it difficult to find

modern figures small enough for use with these costumes. Using a child’s torso instead is often a

practical solution, as this will combine a narrow back as well as a small diaphragm. Padding should be

concentrated on the front of the figure, rather than the back or sides, creating a high well-defined bust.

1820s-1850s: The curvaceous body shape of this period becomes increasingly exaggerated as the waist is

more tightly laced and the hip and bust shaping in corsets is developed. Depending on the date of the

costume, padding should reflect this development. The small waists created by these corsets often mean

that modern figures are too large to be used as mounts. Unfortunately children’s torsos are also

unsuitable, as the waist sizes are likewise generally too big. For this reason, figures may need to be cut

43
down before they can be shaped with padding or it may be necessary to purchase a torso from a

specialist supplier.

1850s and 1860s: The same general body shape persists, but as the corsets become less tightly laced

during the 50s, costumes from this period tend to be slightly larger. For this reason, using modern

figures as mounts can be less problematic, though there are always exceptions. When preparing torsos

with padding, it is important to remember that the level of the waist needs to be raised slightly for

garments from the early 1860s to early 1870s.

1870s and 1880s: With the cuirasse bodice in vogue early in the 1870s, the close fit of dresses from

shoulder to hip, puts greater emphasis on the shape of the body below the level of the waist. The

invention of the spoon busk played a large part in moulding the front of the lower torso, dipping into the

waist and out over the lower abdomen creating a distinctive, rounded stomach. As the shape of the hips,

bottom and stomach will all be visible beneath the costume, as much care must be taken to pad the

lower part of the torso as the upper.

1890s: By the 1890s the front of the corset had become straighter and the rounded tummy created by

the curved spoon busk had disappeared. Padding should be used to emphasise the bust and hips keeping

the waist as small as possible to reflect the tightly laced corsets worn at this time.

44
Mounting an 19th century corset

Corset on dress stand before Torso padded with polyester

padding wadding

Padding covered with stretch

Corset on completed dress stand
fabric

45
The techniques of applying padding to make an 19th Century shape

46
Mounting Historic Dress for Display

Arms, Petticoats and Underpinnings Keira Miller

While a well-padded mannequin is the absolute foundation of costume mounting, underpinnings
provide the finishing touches, and very often it is these finishing touches that place the garment within
the correct historical period; providing the silhouette appropriate to the object, and a much greater
sense of the body within the garment.

This chapter will cover the following basic elements of making underpinnings for costume mounting:

 Padded Arms

 Tube Petticoats

 Trouser Supports

 Net Petticoats

 Silk Top Skirts

 A Brief History of 18th and 19th Century Skirt Shapes

47
Equipment List

Vital
Fabric Scissors
Glass Headed Pins
Needle
Wadding
Calico
Silk Habotai
Rigilene™
Sewing Thread
Tape Measure
Pinking Shears
Net (in different weights)
Mount board

Desirable
Sewing Machine
Overlocker Machine

48
Padded Arms

If there is one thing alone that cheers up the appearance of a costume on display, it is the addition of a
pair of padded arms. Padded arms ensure that sleeves are displayed in their correct position, while the
simple addition of a dart in the elbow creates a convincing hint at the body inside the costume.

49
Making the Pattern

1. Measure the arms of your garment, taking note of the sleeve length (shoulder point to cuff) and
the circumference inside the cuff.

2. Enlarge and trace the pattern supplied (at Part One of the workshop).

Make adaptations to the traced copy in order to ensure both the sleeve length and the cuff circumference meet the
requirements of the garment. The finished length of the padded arm should be 1.5cm shorter than the sleeve of the
object. All adaptations should be made symmetrically, and the elbow dart should be repositioned so as to remain in
proportion.

3. If the wrist measurement has been altered, the wrist disk pattern must be altered to match.

Measure the wrist circumference and divide your measurement by π(3.14) to determine the diameter, then divide
this by 2 (to get the radius). Set your compass to the radius measurement and draw a new wrist disk.

Cutting out the Arms

4. Using the pattern as a template, cut out two rectangles of cotton slightly larger than the
pattern. Place these one on top of the other and place the pattern on the top.

5. Pin the pattern in place and trace the seam allowance, shoulder dart and elbow dart onto the
fabric using a tracing wheel.

Trace the pattern onto the calico

6. Remove the pattern and lay the rectangles out so they show a left and a right sleeve.

50
7. Place a layer of silk, or other slippery fabric, over each piece of cotton, and pin these in place.

Lay a piece of silk over each marked piece of calico

8. Working with the cotton side face up, machine stitch around the outside of the sleeve,
following the wheeled line.

Stitch over the wheeled line

51
Making up the Arms

9. Trim the seam allowance to about 1.5cm all the way around the sleeve.

10. With the right (silk) side of the fabric facing inwards, pin and stitch the shoulder and elbow
darts.

Elbow dart

11. Finish the head of the sleeve with pinking shears. You may also wish to turn in the seam
allowance and stitch it down.

Pinked sleeve head

52
 Sleeve head pinked and stitched turned back

12. Again, with the right sides facing inwards, fold the sleeves in half and pin and stitch the seams
down the length of the sleeve, to form tubes.

Sleeve pinned and ready to be stitched

13. Turn the tubes the right way out, so that the seam is on the inside.

53
 14. Stuff the arm with polyester wadding.

It is possible to use scraps of wadding to stuff the arms, but rolls of wadding will achieve a better finish. Make two
tapered rolls that are slightly bigger than the desired finished arm, and feed these down inside each tube. Once this
is done, excess wadding can be trimmed away from the wrist and head of the support. When trimming excess from
the head of the support, it is worth shaping the wadding so that it can fit smoothly to the body of the mannequin.

A suitable roll of wadding

15. To gauge whether the correct length of support has been achieved, it is worth trying the
costume on with the sleeve supports pinned to the mannequin.

Always ensure pins are pointing inwards so that they cannot snag on the object.

16. Cut out two wrists disk for the support.

Cut out two circles in cotton and two in silk

These can be made from a medium-weight display board (acid-free mounting board). To cover the disks, cut out two
circles of fabric in the cotton, and a further two in the top fabric. The fabric circles should be about 2 cm larger than
the wrist disks themselves. Lay the silk circle on top of the cotton circle and put a running stitch around the circle,
about 1 cm in from the edge, either by hand or with a machine, and draw up this running stitch to pull the cover
around the disk.

54
 Place the cotton on top of the silk and stitch around the wrist disk

Draw up threads to gather the fabric around the disc

17. Once the length has been correctly set, slip stitch the covered wrist disk onto the end of the
sleeve, folding the seam allowance from the sleeve end inside the support.

Attaching the Arms to the Figure

18. Use a herringbone stitch to attach the sleeves to the shoulder of the figure. Only the head of
the sleeve need be stitched, to allow a more natural hang to the arm.

55
Tube Petticoats

In costume mounting terms, tube petticoats take the place of legs, and provide a foundation on which to
build up the layers of net which provide support to skirts no longer being worn with their original
undergarments.

56
Making the Pattern
1. The vital measurements required to make a tube petticoat are as follows:
(i). The measurement around the widest part of the hips (generally about 20 cm below the
waist)
(ii). The length of the petticoat. This can be calculated by measuring the waist to hem of the
object and subtracting around 10cm.

2. These two measurements can then be transferred onto a piece of calico using a pencil and ruler,
with the hip measurement (i) forming the horizontal edges of a square/rectangle, and the
length measurement (ii) forming the vertical edges.

3. Working up from the bottom edge, mark 2 to 3 lines for applying boning, each about 15 to 20 cm
apart. Boning will also be applied to the hem.

4. 2 cm of seam allowance should now be drawn around all sides, and the pattern can then be cut
out. Finish the edges with pinking shears, or by over-locking or zigzag stitch on the sewing
machine.

Stitching Together and Applying Boning

5. With the right sides together, the side seams (lines (ii)) should be placed together and pinned
and stitched. The seam can them be pressed open.

6. With the tube still the wrong way out, rings of Rigilene™ are stitched along the boning lines and
the hem line using a wide zig-zag stitch on the sewing machine.

It is worth noting that the Rigilene™ works best if its natural curve matches that of the completed petticoat.
Therefore, as the boning is being stitched to the inside of the tube, it should be applied with the curve in the reverse
direction. Once turned though, it will then curve correctly.

7. Turn up the hem and pin and stitch in place.

Attaching the Tube to the Figure

8. Turn the petticoat the correct way out and pull in over the figure so that the top edge lines up
with widest part of the hips. Herringbone stitch in place.

Larger tube petticoats can be made by adding additional width around the waist. However, once the
circumference goes above around 1.5 m, steel boning may be required to help the petticoat keep its
shape.

57
Trouser Supports

Trouser supports serve a similar function to tube petticoats, and are used if a garment has trousers
rather than a skirt. Thankfully, they are also made in a similar way. However, a major thing to note for
costumes with trousers is that the mannequin will need to have a cut away to accommodate the crotch.

58
Making a Pattern
1. The measurements for leg supports are as follows, taken while the figure is on the mannequin:
(i). Measure the inner circumference of the trouser leg at its narrowest point. Subtract 2.5 cm
from this measurement.
(ii). Measure the length of the trousers from the bottom edge of the mannequin to the hem.
(iii). Measure the approximate circumference of the trousers where they meet the edge of the
mannequin.

2. These two measurements can then be transferred onto a piece of calico using a pencil and ruler,
with the circumference measurement (i) forming the horizontal edges of a rectangle, and the
length measurement (ii) forming the vertical edges.

3. To create a more realistic leg shape, the top the horizontal line should be extended in relation to
the circumference measurement of the trousers where they meet the bottom edge of the
mannequin (iii). Ensure that this is done evenly on each side. Re-join the top line to the ankle
line, creating a shape that tapers outwards towards the top.

Where each measurement ends up on the pattern

4. Working up from the bottom edge, mark 2 to 3 lines for applying boning, each about 15-20cm
apart. Boning will also be applied to the hem.

59
 5. 2cm of seam allowance should now be drawn around all sides, and the pattern can then be cut
out. Finish the edges with pinking shears, or by over-locking or zigzag stitch on the sewing
machine.

Stitching Together and Applying Boning

6. With the right sides together, the side seams (lines (ii)), on each leg should be placed together
and pinned and stitched. The seams can them be pressed open.

7. With the tubes still the wrong way out, rings of Rigilene™ are stitched along the boning lines
and the hem line using a wide zig-zag stitch on the sewing machine.

It is worth noting that the Rigilene™ works best if its natural curve matches that of the completed petticoat.
Therefore, as the boning is being stitched to the inside of the tube, it should be applied with the curve in the reverse
direction. Once turned though, it will then curve correctly.

8. Turn up the hem and pin and stitch in place.

9. Turn the leg supports the correct way out and pull over the cut-away at the bottom edge of the
figure. Herringbone stitch in place.

60
Net Petticoats

While it is sometimes necessary to make underpinnings which closely resemble original undergarments,
most costumes can be given an accurate and supportive silhouette with the use of net petticoats and
frills.

Net can be used to make full petticoats, or it can be used for frills attached to a tube petticoat, or even as
frills applied directly to the mannequin. The beauty of using net is that it provides the costume with a
soft and sympathetic base on which to rest, with the bonus being that the building up of nets can be
done in subtle increments to create a perfect historical silhouette.

Even if a larger tube petticoat is used, a finishing layer or two of net will always give a finer and more
sympathetic finish.

61
Weights of Net
Net can be purchased in many different weights and as a general rule, stiff net is used to build up larger
skirts, while medium/soft net provides a softening layer between the stiff net and the top skirt. Softer
net can also be used under garments which are in need of less support or a less dramatic period shape.

How much to cut –

1. Measure the length of the frill or petticoat required.

2. Measure the distance you want your frill to cover, be it around a tube petticoat, around the
waist circumference, or around a sleeve. For very stiff net, times this measurement by 2 to 3, for
medium net times the measurement by 3 to 5 and for very light weight net, times it by 5 to 7 in
order to determine the width of net required.

3. Cut several strips of net to the required length. You will need to cut as many strips as are needed
to create the bulk of gathering needed in the width (the distance of the frill x 2 to 7, depending
on the bulk required and the weight of net used).

Gathering Net

4. (i) Draw Cord Method

Stitch all your strips of net together in a long line, over lapping the edges and stitching them
flat, rather than creating a standard seam.

Overlapped edges

62
Using the largest stitch length, stitch two parallel lines of straight stitching along the top edge,
without anchoring them off at the ends. If the net is very stiff, a third line might be useful.

x2 stitch lines along the top edge of the net

Use these lines of stitching to draw the net into gathers by pulling on the top threads, or the
bottom threads, to gather the fabric along the lines.

Net gathered with drawn-up stitching

63
(ii) Quick Method
Stitch all the widths of net together, as above. Rather than applying a draw cord, quickly gather
the net by pleating it as you feed it under the machine foot. This is best done using the point of
your scissors, or a small metal spatula, if you have one.

Using scissors to ‘quick-pleat’ ‘Quick-pleated’ net

The easiest way attach nets to a petticoat or a mannequin is either by machine stitching, or by
using a herringbone stitch.

64
Top Petticoats

Once the desired shape has been completed, a top petticoat should be added to act as a barrier between
the net and the object. Top petticoats are best if made out of a slippery fabric, such as silk habotai.

65
How much fabric to cut

1. (i) Measure the length from the waist of the figure to just below the hem of the net
support (5-6 cm).

(ii) Calculate the width required by measuring around the net support at its widest. Add a
further 50 cm to allow for ease. To attain enough width you will probably have to seam
together two or more widths of fabric. Once stitched, seams should be pressed open
and finished with pinking shears, or by over-locking or a zig-zag stitch on the sewing
machine.

2. If you have an over-locker sewing machine, over-lock all raw edges and gather the top edge of
the petticoat on the sewing machine, as per the draw cord method used for gathering net frills.

3. If you don't have an over locker, finish the raw edges with pinking shears or a zig-zag stitch on
the sewing machine. Turn over 2 cm at the top of the petticoat and iron flat and then apply
gathering stitches through both layers of fabric. This will give the petticoat a neat top edge.

4. To attach the petticoat to the mannequin, pin the centre of the petticoat to the centre front of
the mannequin and draw up the gathering stitches, positioning the gathers where they will best
work with the silhouette of the garment.

66
A Brief History of 18th Century Skirt Shapes

Extract taken from: Lara Flecker’s book, A Practical Guide to Costume Mounting, (Butterworth-
Heinemann, 2007), p. 135

The exaggerated panniers or hoops worn beneath skirts during the 18th century are so characteristic of
their time that garments from this period can be easily identified, even by those who are less familiar
with the history of dress. Although the extremes of this style are a familiar image of the period, the
evolution of the skirt during this century is punctuated by a variety of changes that are important to be
aware of.

Early alterations to the skirt silhouette were partly inspired by the newly available silks, velvets and
brocades from France, which could be shown off to greater advantage if spread out over a larger surface
area. Initially skirts were supported with petticoats and pads and it was not until 1710 that the first
structured underskirt of the century was introduced. This took the form of a large dome or bell shaped
garment, supported with whalebone. By the 1740s the silhouette had changed, flattening out at the
front and back and extending beyond the hips, to create the hoop or pannier shape that is so symbolic of
this period. Throughout this time, hoops continued to expand, in some cases to a preposterous extent.
Skirts and frames were shaped into a square, boxlike silhouette or fashioned into a fan shape that flared
out from the top of the skirt into an even wider hem.

By the 1750s the size of the skirts had begun to reduce and pocket-hoops were worn for informal ware.
These supports were made as separate structures, like two half buckets worn over the hips and held
together by a communal waist tape. This less extreme silhouette persisted for another twenty or thirty
years, although the larger panniers of earlier decades continued to be worn for formal and court
occasions. Pocket-hoops were finally replaced in the late 1770s by hip and bum-pads (false rumps), made
of fabric stuffed with wool, horsehair or cork. These pads were worn throughout the 1780s creating a
rounded shape to the skirt. By the mid 1790s a more radical change had occurred. The female waistline
rose dramatically, altering the silhouette to a classical line. Skirts at this time become straighter and less
voluminous with only a small bustle or bum-pad used to fill out the curve in the spine and prevent skirts
from resting on the backside of the wearer.

67
A Brief History of 19th Century Skirt Shapes Extract taken from: Lara Flecker’s book, A Practical
Guide to Costume Mounting, (Butterworth-Heinemann, 2007), p. 145-146

The high waist that had become fashionable at the end of the 1700s marks the commencement of the
19th century with a particularly distinctive style of dress. Persisting with this shape, the first years of the
century are characterised by a waistline that continued to rise until reaching its zenith around 1815.
Although maintaining decency, underpinnings from this period were less bulky than previously. Dresses
often made of transparent muslins and gauzes were cut with relatively straight skirts, requiring little
support to define their shape, apart from a tiny pad worn in the small of the back. From 1815 onwards the
skirt silhouette began to fill out and the hem developed into a more spherical bell shape.

By the mid 1820s the high waist had dropped while the skirts continued to increase gradually in size. The
numbers of undergarments worn beneath skirts inevitably multiplied to support their swelling shape.
Throughout the 1830s and 40s, the expansion of the skirt continued, with hem circumferences steadily
growing. A larger bum-pad or bustle was used at this time to fill out the back of the skirt while many
layers of starched and stiffened petticoats were now worn to create the correct silhouette. By the end of
the 1830s a sturdier petticoat known as a crinoline was being used. This undergarment obtained its
name from the French word crin or horsehair with which the petticoat was reinforced and should not be
confused with the crinoline frame which was introduced some years later.

The waistline, which had temporarily dropped during the 1840s, rose again in the 1850s. By this time
skirts had become so large that the number of petticoats worn to produce the shape was very
cumbersome. In 1856, the cage crinoline was introduced to overcome this problem. Made out of a series
of spring steel hoops suspended from tapes, the crinoline successfully liberated women from their
previous petticoats, providing a firm support for the skirt. The shape of the skirt soon began to develop
into a slightly more elegant silhouette, flattening out at the front and extending at the back. This bias
towards the back of the figure seemed to develop throughout the decade culminating at its end in the
first era of the bustle. With the crinoline abandoned, the bustle shape was partly derived from the
looping up and draping of the surplus material left over from larger skirts. The level of the waist was also
raised at this time and the bustle worn fairly high. To create the bustle silhouette, skirts were often
supported with frames based on the structure of a half crinoline and made of fabric reinforced with
whalebones or steels. Pads were also used, stuffed with straw, cotton or feathers. Later, in the early
1870s, when skirts were narrower, pads were worn alone, before being temporarily dropped to make way
for the new slim line shape of 1874.

This new fashion was a radical change to the female silhouette and was also short lived. Skirt shapes at
this time were moulded tightly over the hips and kept flat and narrow down the front and sides. The
back was also fitted, often with an additional train attached to the skirt and positioned sometimes as
low as knee level. Trains were supported with layers of flounces attached to the back of a fitted
petticoat. By 1882, the bustle began to return, becoming more exaggerated than before. Positioned
slightly lower than previously, it projected almost horizontally from the back waist of the figure. The
flatter front of the skirt survived, helping to accentuate the bustle behind, which was also narrower than
its previous incarnation. Around the middle of the 1880s, the bustle began to shrink and had disappeared
entirely by the beginning of the next decade. Skirts now became relatively unstructured and were
supported with gored petticoats stiffened with frills and gathered at the centre back for greater fullness.

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Mounting Historic Dress for Display
Suppliers

It is useful practice to ask your colleagues for any scraps or off-cuts of Plastazote®, acid-free mounting
board, Melinex® etc. for you to use when mounting dress – as you will often only need a small amount.

Preservation Equipment Ltd. (PEL) - www.pel.eu

For: Tyvek®, Secol® sleeves, acid-free tissue paper, mounting board, Plastazote®, dust masks, spatulas.

Polyester Converters -www.polyesterconverters.com/index.htm

For: Melinex®

Restore Products -www.restore-products.co.uk/ecommerce/

For: small reels of polyester thread

MacCulloch and Wallis - www.macculloch-wallis.co.uk

For: fabrics and haberdashery/notions such as Rigilene™, curved needles, curved beading needles, glass
headed steel pins

Pongees – www.pongees.co.uk
For: silks

Jacob Cowen and Sons Ltd. – www.jacobcowen.com

For: polyester wadding

Proportion London - http://www.proportionlondon.com/

For: dress stands and mannequins

Siegel and Stockman – www.siegel-stockman.com

For: dress stands and mannequins

Shopfittings (Manchester) Ltd. - www.shopfittings-ltd.co.uk or email: matt@4-shops.co.uk

For: ready-made torso covers

Feuerstein – http://www.suprama.com/katalog-englisch/darm1.html
For: curved surgical needles – 3/8 curved, regular eye - PD 533-O size 1 or 2

John James - www.jjneedles.com

For: curved quilting needles – assorted sizes

Restore Products - http://restore-products.co.uk/ecommerce/product/fine_curved_needles/

For: fine curved needles – assorted sizes

69
Mounting Historic Dress for Display

Whaleys of Bradford product codes

http://www.whaleys-bradford.ltd.uk/

Whaleys of Bradford can supply many different fabrics suitable for mounting dress. They will also send
out swatches, but you may have to pay a small amount for these. Some of the following materials have
been used to create the swatch file in the loans box.

Name Code Width Cost per metre (for

10 metres or more),
ex VAT
Scoured Natural (shrunk) Calico AJ404 150 cm £2.99

Calico Heavy CC27 183 cm £2.89

Cotton/Lycra Black SF19A 160 cm £5.99

Cotton/Lycra White (Optic white) SF19 160 cm £5.99

Merz Cotton Natural (Jersey) CMOS 115 150 cm £3.91

Habotai Silk, Medium white S122 114 cm £6.41

Habotai Silk, Black DS13 112 cm £7.87

Heavy weight net WB415 150 cm £2.08

Medium weight net white BC88 137 cm £1.05

Soft weight net, scoured nylon – white 110 cm £14.91

Bobbinet white cotton net AK99 160 cm £15.93

Prices correct as of April 2014

70
Bibliography
Flecker, L. A Practical Guide to Costume Mounting; Butterworth-Heinemann, 2007

Gernsheim, A. Victorian and Edwardian Fashion, a Photographic Survey; Dover Publications, 1981

Robinson, J. An Illustrated Guide to the Care of Costume and Textile Collections; MGC, 2000
and Pardue, T.

Readers Digest New Complete Guide to Sewing: Step-By-Step Techniques for Making Clothes and
Home Accessories, 2010
Waugh, N. Corsets and Crinolines; Faber and Faber Limited, London, 1993

Useful websites

http://www.clothestellstories.com/
http://www.australiandressregister.org/resources/
http://www.connectingtocollections.org/mountinggarments/
http://blogs.utexas.edu/culturalcompass/tag/a-practical-guide-to-costume-mounting/

List of authors and workshop tutors

V&A

Susana Fajardo (author)

Has been a Textile Conservator at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) since 1996. A BA(Hons) degree
in Constructed Textiles at Camberwell School of Art, London, was followed by an apprenticeship in
classical tapestry weaving at the Manufacture des Gobelins, Paris, and a three year textile conservation
apprenticeship at Ksynia Marko’s Textile Conservation Studio, London. Susana is currently working on
the conservation of material for the Europe 1600-1800 Galleries, part of V&A’s FuturePlan Project.

Lara Flecker (author and Part One tutor)

Works as a specialist in Costume Mounting in the conservation department at the V&A. She trained as a
costume maker at Wimbledon School of Art and after graduating, worked in the theatre and film
industry as well as for the conservation department at Historic Royal Palaces. Lara is the author of A
Practical Guide to Costume Mounting which was first published in 2007.

Sam Gatley (author and Part One tutor)

Works as a Textile Display Specialist within the Textile Conservation department at the Victoria and
Albert Museum. Having worked as a technician for a number of museums around the UK she went on to
complete a BA (Hons) in Costume Interpretation at Wimbledon School of Art before graduating with an
MA in Conservation and Mounting of Costume from the Royal College of Art/V&A.

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Joanne Hackett ACR (Part One tutor)
Graduated with an M.Sc. from the Winterthur/University of Delaware programme in Art Conservation in
1998. She worked for the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and the Indianapolis Museum of Art
before joining the textile conservation department of the V&A in 2006. She is an Accredited
Conservator and a Fellow of the American Institute for Conservation.

Keira Miller (author and Part One tutor)

Graduated from Wimbledon School of Art in 2007, gaining a BA (Hons) in Theatre Design: Costume
Interpretation. Since graduation, she worked briefly for the BBC wardrobe department, before taking up
a post in the Textile Conservation Department of the Victoria and Albert Museum, where she specialises
in the mounting and packing of textiles and dress objects.

Part Two tutors: Bath

The second part of the DATS dress-mounting course is a 'live learning' exercise at the Fashion Museum in
Bath. The aim is to assist with the mounting of 19th century dress for the refresh display of the popular
Behind the Scenes gallery at the museum. Across the two days you will be guided by the experienced
team, each of whom has a role both in the Fashion Museum display preparation and in the DATS course.
This is the FM team:

Janet Wood
Independent textile conservator- Janet is one of the leading figures in establishing the modern practise
of mounting dress in museums. After a successful career in fashion, Janet became a textile conservator
and pioneered dress mounting techniques at Historic Royal Palaces / Kensington Palace. Janet has
mounted dress for the Fashion Museum in the past and will be working on the refresh display as well as
being one of the team of three key tutors for the DATS delegates at Bath.

Christine Housden
Independent textile conservator - Christine worked closely with Janet at Historic Royal Palaces after a
career in theatre wardrobe making, and is also involved in mounting the dress on display at the FM with
Janet. Christine also masterminds the integrated pest management (IPM) at the FM and will act as one
of the three key tutors for the DATS course at Bath.

Elly Summers
Fashion Museum Collections Assistant - Elly has worked at the FM for 10 years and is joint exhibition
curator with Elaine Uttley for the Behind the Scenes refresh display. Elly will be one of the three key
tutors who will guide the work and learning of the DATS delegates.

Elaine Uttley
Fashion Museum Collections Assistant - Elaine has worked at the FM for 7 years and with Elly Summers is
joint exhibition curator for the Behind the Scenes refresh display. Elaine will be condition checking
objects to be mounted for the refresh display during the DATS course.

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Jean Scott
Fashion Museum Volunteer Lead - Jean is in charge of the Friday Ladies Volunteer Group at the FM, a
voluntary role that she has filled for over 10 years. Jean's background is in education and fashion making,
and her role during the installation period will be to assist with the provision and supply of
underpinnings, and arms, for the display figures used by the delegates.

Fleur Johnson
Fashion Museum Curatorial Intern - Fleur is at the FM on a one-year contract, working on the Fashion
Museum Backlog by noting the locations of objects on the collections management system (CMS). This is
Fleur's first exhibition, and she will act as runner.

Vivien Hynes
Fashion Museum Administrator - Vivien has worked at the FM for 4 years. During the display installation
Vivien will anchor the day-to-day work of the museum, and also liaise with front of house staff and
marketing colleagues.

Rosemary Harden
Fashion Museum Manager - Rosemary has worked at the FM for 23 years and has an overview of the
display refresh and the DATS mounting course. Rosemary will introduce the course and the roles of the
FM team, and also be working on a storage project on the gallery during the installation and DATS
course.

Ann French
Collections Care Manager/Conservator (Textiles) Whitworth Art Gallery - Ann is textile conservation lead
on the DATS dress-mounting project and her role is overall moderator during the DATS course in Bath,
ensuring consistency and the delivery of key learning aims. Ann has over 30 years textile conservation
experience, and has worked extensively at the Fashion Museum in the past.

Ann has worked in the field of Textile Conservation for nearly 30 years for a variety of institutions,
including the V&A, Glasgow Museums, the Area Museums Council for the South West and the National
Trust for England and Wales. She has been employed at the Whitworth Art Gallery, the University of
Manchester since 2002 as Conservator (Textiles). Since 2011 she has combined this role with that of
Collection Care Manager. In addition, Ann teaches conservation and collection care seminars for the
universities of Manchester, Glasgow and East Anglia. Ann is chair of ICON’s Textiles Group, and the
Conservation Representative on DATS’ Committee.

Caro Whitehead
Independent dress and textiles curator - Caro is joint lead with Jenny Lister of the DATS dress mounting
project, and her role during the DATS course is, with Ann, to ensure delivery of key aims as required by
Arts Council England, who have funded the project. Caro has also worked on collection documentation
tasks at the FM, and will be taking record photographs during the DATS course. Caro worked for 23 years
as the Costume and Textiles specialist at Tyne & Wear Museums.

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Part Two tutors: Manchester

Ann French (see previous page)

Sarah Walton

Has recently started a two year internship at Queens Park Conservation Studios, in conjunction with the
Manchester City Galleries as a costume mounting technician. Sarah has a background in textiles and
studied BA (Hons) Embroidery at the Manchester School of Art.

Geza Werner
After working as a costume maker in the theatre for several years Gesa trained as a "Gewandmeisterin"
at "Staatliche Fachschule für Gestaltung", Hamburg (German equivalent to BA (Hons) Theatre and Screen
- Costume Interpretation) in 2005, and started focusing on the fine art of drafting patterns and cutting
clothes. She took up Costume Mounting at the V&A Textile Conservation Department in 2011 and has
been doing this ever since, first on a full time post at the V&A, and now as a freelancer for various clients.

Aside from this Gesa has also developed an additional enterprise making bespoke garments for private
clients in the 1920s -1940s style. It is a great pleasure to be able to do both, creating new and wonderful
garments on the one hand and also preserving old, fragile treasures by mounting them for display on the
other.

Acknowledgements

We are very grateful to all the authors involved for their contributions to this booklet. We would like to
acknowledge the generosity of Butterworth-Heinemann and the V&A for allowing us to use extracts
from Lara Flecker’s book, A Practical Guide to Costume Mounting, and our thanks also go to the V&A for
allowing their images to be reproduced free of charge.

Particular thanks are due to Lara Flecker, Sam Gatley and Keira Miller from the V&A’s Costume Mounting
team, and Susana Fajado and Jo Hackett from the V&A’s Conservation team for contributions to the
booklet, and devising and running Part One of the course.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the staff at our partner venues, the Fashion Museum, Bath and The Gallery of
Costume, Manchester for running the Part Two sessions of the course. Particularly for allowing our
participants to practice on their objects in a real life scenario of object mounting for display. So, thanks
go to: Rosemary Harden, Elly Summers, Elaine Uttley, Fleur Johnson, Jean Scott and Vivian Hynes of the
Fashion Museum, Bath alongside Janet Wood and Christine Housden, and to Ann French, Sarah Walton,
and Dr Miles Lambert from Manchester City Galleries alongside Gesa Werner.

Thanks also go to Sarah Waldron (Arts Council England).

Jenny Lister and Caro Whitehead

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