$50.00
What is the difference between synthetic whalebone and steel boning?
Synthetic whalebone is a plastic boning made to mimic the qualities of whalebone or baleen, which was historically used in corsets for hundreds of years. Steel boning is made of steel and is commonly used in corsets today. It was first used in corsets during the Victorian era, when the Industrial Revolution made steel a less expensive alternative to whalebone. Now that synthetic whalebone has become readily available, many costume historians prefer it over steel.
There is a common misconception that steel boning is better than plastic or synthetic whalebone boning for use in corsets. I prefer using synthetic whalebone over steel boning because whalebone is lighter, more flexible, and actually molds to the shape of the body over time as it is warmed by body heat. Steel boning is heavier, stiffer, and will never change shape to adjust to your body over time. That being said, if you prefer steel boning anyway, this listing is for you 🙂
This listing upgrades any standard corset to steel boning. This item must be purchased in addition to a made-to-order corset.
If you are purchasing tudor stays, you must select the “tudor stays” option at checkout, as this style has a lot more boning than all other corsets.
Please note that I only use 1/4″ steel boning in my bodices, corsets, and stays, so it may not provide the same amount of strength you are familiar with if you are familiar with steel boning. I currently do not use 1/2″ steel bones because these must be custom cut and my arthritis can no longer handle cutting through that thickness of steel. As a seamstress who already undergoes a lot of stress on my hands and wrists, I have to protect myself against further damage. Thank you for understanding 🙂
Est. Ship Date 06/11/2023 - 06/15/2023
All made-to-order items are handmade in Portland, Oregon. This means that your item will take some time for us to make — typically between 6-10 weeks, depending on our current order volume.
You can guarantee your processing time by selecting a Priority Processing Upgrade from the drop-down menu.
Please note that the processing time does not include shipping time. For example, an item purchased today with a 4 week processing time will be shipped 4 weeks from today.
Standard size corsets/stays are considered made-to-order unless otherwise noted. For custom fit items, this processing time begins from the time you submit your measurements. Failure to submit your measurements in a timely manner could result in your order being delayed.
Please note that the estimated delivery date is just an estimate. We only have a small team of fairies to help pattern, cut, sew, and ship your order, so sometimes orders can get delayed by a week or two. If you need your order by an exact date, we highly recommend adding Priority Processing to your order.
*Please note that the estimated delivery date will not update on this page, regardless of which Processing option you select.
Natahlia –
Fantastic! Very happy I chose the upgrade to steel boning.