Thank you all for your suggestions on this problem. The front is on a curve, so boning is not going to be an option, but I will remember that option for straighter seams. I did sew down hooks and bars through the round holes, and the area by the hook top. But I did not set it back from the edge by 1/2", only about 1/4", which might be part of the problem so the hooks will be moved. The bars were sewn on top of the underlap about a half inch from the edge, so I will move those closer to the edge. Because of the lapped parts of the bodice, I couldn't figure out how to alternate the hooks and bars. Both hooks and bars were sewn through the lining and interlining of linen canvas, but that seems to be allowing the silk top fabric to shift back a little. I may hand sew the layers together about an inch back to keep the layers together and see if that also helps.
I am trying to get a photo or two uploaded of the problem area but that's going to take a bit of work, as I am also uploading the rest of the photos for my dress diary. I don't have a full shot of the whole outfit yet, as I took a few photos with the photographer, but he hasn't contacted me yet to get the photos ordered. Another person took a photo of the Fashion Show we had at the Ball, and you can see the me in this photo (the only female of the three). http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=481895455986&set=t.1209547229 The headband was annoying, and didn't stay in place until I shoved it close to the hairline near the end of the night, which is why it is nearly in my eyes. Live and learn. Thanks again for all the great suggestions. I've really learned a lot about what seems like a simple thing. I'll post a link to my dress diary and photos a little later. Kimiko Smallhttp://www.kimiko1.com "Be the change you want to see in the world." ~ Ghandi The Tudor Lady's Wardrobe pattern http://www.margospatterns.com/ _______________________________________________ h-costume mailing list [email protected] http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
