Online art communities and a feature

Lilly’s Workshop is currently featured on steampunk paranormal romance author O.M. Grey’s blog Caught in the Cogs! Steph is reading and planning a review of O.M. Grey's intriguing novel Avalon Revisited in the upcoming weeks, so keep an eye out for that.

I’d also like to highlight two amazing artist/crafter communities that I joined during the month of May.

The first is deviantART. Even if you’re not a member you’ve probably still seen deviantART, especially if you like viewing art online. In the three weeks since I started an account I’ve found amazing art and artists to favorite and put into my gallery, and I’ve received hundreds of comments and suggestions on my corsets (and a couple cockatiel photos). I really like the customization and organization options on your personal page and decided to try out a premium membership. So far I like it!

The second community is TotalArtSoul. This tight-knit group of artists and crafters offers forums, blogs, galleries, instant messaging and other features that help create a sense of community. I highly recommend looking through the insightful blog section, as well as the gallery full of artisan works.

Steph in her steampunk corset

A couple shots of my adorable girlfriend Steph wearing her overbust corset that I made. She's also wearing a beautiful owl necklace by The Spectra Nova.

Two new corset variations

In the past week I've made two new custom corset variations.

The first is an underbust version of my steampunk utility corset. It has adjustable straps that cross in the back and have brass buckles in the front. I made it for The Spectra Nova, who will be wearing it to the World Steam Expo in Dearborn, Michigan. If you're there go see her amazing and beautiful steampunk jewelry!

The overbust steampunk utility corset.

The other new corset I made is my overbust pattern with imitation black leather instead of the brown faux leather and brocade. I love the way the silver busks and white lacing looks in contrast to the shiny black leather. This corset could be steampunk or even goth depending on what you wear it with.

What goes into making a corset

eph has been taking a lot of pictures of me making steampunk corsets so that she can send updates to customers. I decided to use some of them to demonstrate some of what goes into making a corset!

The first thing I do is make a custom pattern based on a customer's measurements. The pattern shown above is for an underbust corset.

After I've finished the pattern I cut the exterior fabric (hunter green brocade and imitation leather in this case) and the cotton coutil lining.

I sew the exterior fabric together forming an outer shell and then I sew the lining pieces together forming the inner shell. I then baste the two shells together at the seams and machine stitch the casings for the busk and boning.

What happens in Vegas Etsy treasury

Check out my Las Vegas Etsy Treasury, featuring artists from the new Las Vegas Etsy Team (final name pending)!

Check out my steampunk corset in the Etsy Prom Queen Voter!

Etsy frequently holds votes on items for specific events and themes. In the past these themes have ranged from Easter to gardening; the current vote is for an "item you think could help pull off an unforgettable glammed out prom night!"

Custom Neo-Victorian Steampunk turquoise blue and imitation leather corset

My turquoise Neo-Victorian steampunk corset is among many other beautiful dresses, hairpieces, shoes, toiletries and accessories up for vote. The winning item will be featured on Etsy's front page next week. Take a look at all the beautiful pieces and vote for your favorite!