Frequently Asked Questions

We are currently on indefinite hiatus for custom orders. This includes custom size modifications and colors for our standard corsets.

Please see our Policies Page for a detailed explanation of all of these topics.

As of 2021 we are primarily focused only on corsetry. We make costumes for theatrical and entertainment clients on occasion. We no longer accept custom gown or costume orders for individual retail clients. No exceptions.  

Visit our Sizing Chart page for information and instructional video.

Visit our Sizing Charts page for information and instructional video.

Our corsets are historically accurate in silhouette and pattern shaping. We use modern materials when necessary to approximate historical products which are no longer available, such as whalebone. We use grommets for all of our standard/stock stays and corsets because they are sturdy and economical, but these did not exist until the 19th century. Our construction techniques are a blend of historical methods and modern theatrical methods. We choose one or the other by taking into consideration durability, visual appeal, alterability, and construction ease. All corsets are machine stitched. 

Believe us, we wish they didn't have to cost more, because we understand how frustrating the current fashion market is for plus size women. However, our plus sizes are quite different from the standard range. They are different drafts, not simply scaled-up versions of standard sizes. We've taken care to add more boning and in some cases more seams to help with fit and support. All of this comes at an additional material and labor cost.  

Large manufacturers are able to absorb the cost of the extra fabrics and materials used in plus sizing across their entire size range; the XS helps pay for the 2X etc. When you're manufacturing 1,000 or 10,000 pieces, that works. However, this is simply not possible at our small scale. We've done our best to keep the pricing differences as low as possible. 

Regarding pricing generally, because our corsets are made in small batches  in the USA, our overhead costs are significantly higher (particularly labor) when compared to the mass manufactured corsets made in Pakistan and China. We also use top-quality materials and focus on providing excellent fit and historical accuracy.

Detailed instructions and videos can be found at our Wear & Care page 

Detailed instruct ions can be found at our Wear & Care page

Costume and corset supplies are widely available online from many retailers. Here are some suggestions as of 2022:

Sew Curvy (UK)
Corsetmaking.com (USA)
Farthingales (CA)
Whaleys Bradford LTD (UK)
Tutu.com (USA)
Richard the Thread (USA)
Wawak Sewing (USA)
Renaissance Fabrics (USA)
Burnley and Trowbridge (USA)
Silk Baron (USA)

We also sell corset kits that coordinate with our pattern line. Our wooden busks are a Redthreaded exclusive and are manufactured for us by a local workshop. 

Our corsetmaking knowledge has come through many years of research and trial and error, in addition to some college classes focused on corsets and support garments. There is no substitute for doing your own reading and investigation. Current beginners are lucky, because there are many more resources now. Here are some great places to start:

Books – You simply cannot beat books for costume research. Here is an Amazon list of a bunch of helpful titles. We have read many of these cover to cover. Many of these can be gotten through inter-library loan programs or small independent boostores--you don't have to support Amazon!.

Facebook/Social Media – There are a number of corsetmaking and costuming groups on facebook that have excellent information. 

Our own patterns will walk you through construction and provide experience. 

Update as of November, 2025: we have moved locations and are no longer able to provide fitting services at the new location due to lease terms. However, we have a very easy return policy so you can try your order on at home easily, and we are always happy to answer sizing questions. 

Likewise, we are unable to offer local pick-up or drop-off services.

Generally, no. We get dozens of requests per year, but are unable to give away product for free. This would cut into our profit margins significantly and make it difficult for us to stay in business. However, we do occasionally offer quantity discounts.  

Redthreaded does not offer internships and is not hiring. If that ever changes, we'll make an announcement on social media, our mailing list, and job sites.
 

The bulk of our work is done on industrial Juki DDL-8700H machines with servo motors. They are fast, quiet, self oiling, and incredibly reliable. Our studio also has a Juki industrial serger and Bernina 1008.

We recommend used mechanical Bernina or vintage Singer machines for costumers and corsetmakers just starting out, who need a reliable machine with multiple features. Most new machines are half plastic and break down after a year or two of regular use.