I know there have been some threads about bra-making in the past, but can anyone tell me where I might obtain wide non-elasticated shoulder strapping for a large busted lady? The straps are currently folding over and digging into her shoulders and I’d like to be able to replace them. A UK supplier would be especially welcome, but I could order from further afield if that were the only option.
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Replies
Before you go too far replacing this lady's straps, would you please check her back strap placement? The back of her bra may be riding too low. For large busted women, it is important that the back of the bra rides across the lower part of her shoulder blades, in order to support the front of her bra. This is how the weight is designed to be supported. The shoulder strap is merely designed to hold the front top part of the bra up. If it is cutting into her shoulder, it is supporting too much weight, and the bra back should be raised. It feels funny until she gets used to it, but once accustomed to it, she will be surprised at how much better she looks, and how much better her back feels. Most women wear their bras too low. Cathy
Here is a site with good pics on how a properly fitted bra looks
http://www.blestbras.com/page.aspx?ID=123&e=1 I am not supporting the site, just the pictures are good.
Edited 9/4/2008 12:07 am ET by ThreadKoe
Thanks - that is an interesting site with some worthwhile info on comparable cup sizes/back measurements. I've bookmarked it.
However this lady is wearing a corset rather than a bra - in bra size she'd be about the largest cup size, and I think the corset is to help give more support using the torso. But still those straps are folding over and cutting in, and I'd love to be able to offer to replace them with wider ones.
In that case, I would suggest that you consider sewing custom straps instead. A slightly curved strap, shaped and padded would probably be more comfortable for her. If you check out the different straps that are available on the ready made bras, you will see some that are like that, only they are slightly stretchy. It would give you an idea of what I mean. Or even a slightly wider pad that her existing straps can be sew to to stabilize them and keep them from folding over and cutting in. Just a thought. I will keep looking through my books for further resources and let you know if I find anything. Perhaps one of our corset maker friends here would have another suggestion. Cathy
Hi Moira,
Check out the bramakers website. Beverly Johnson is an instructor for professional bramakers. Also, you might try making a padded strap out of a soft fabric similar to the fabric used for the bra.
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