Late 1860s Elliptical Hoop Tutorial

As promised, here is my how-to on making a late-1860s covered cage.

I started out by drafting up a pattern model with all the measurements. The measurements I used are in red, but if you are a more normal sized person, I have some suggested measurements in black. In general, the front length measure is about 7"-10" less than the waist-to-floor measure, the waist is about 10"-15" larger than the corsetted waist measure, and the hem circumference is what you feel will suit you in terms of functionality and body proportions. I figured out mine by looking at koshka_the_cat's elliptical crinoline on her website, which she said was 95". Katherine and I are about the same size and I knew I wanted a smaller cage, so my hem circumference here is 90", but the 6" worth of seam allowance (1/2" seam allowance) brought it down to 84". The alternative measurements I give here would be suitable if your waist-to-floor is about 42"-45" and your corsetted waist measure is around 30" and you want a hem of about 105". I also give the measurements for a bumpad, which I have inside the hoop. Also, have your waistband the length of your corsetted waist plus 3" and 3" wide.

( Rest of the instructions behind the cut )

This really was easy to make and I probably could have done it all in one day if I tried. I hope this is helpful for anyone who wants to make this kind of hoop! And please let me know if anything is unclear or you have any questions. :)