My Favorite Corset Maker

I must admit, I was a little nervous when I started looking for corsets to complete my Steampunk costumes.  Skirts & blouses were easy to find, but a corset.....now that's a whole different matter. So, I did what I always do, I turned to Etsy to look and learn.  I found:

Damsel in this Dress

I'd actually heard about Damsel in this Dress from several ladies I met at a writing conference.  I fell in love with their use of patterns, prints, colors, and texture. They really have a superb eye for design.  Most importantly, their designs come in a broad range of sizes.  Recently they produced a "Look Book" that showed how their skirts and corsets can be combined to make western, futuristic, Steampunk, and fantasy (and much more) themed costumes.  I especially love their Tieranny skirts and bustle accessories that allow you to mix and match pieces to create a variety of outfits.

Their sizing instructions were easy to follow and the corset(s) I purchased are designed for support and all day comfort.

My understanding is that Damsel in this Dress will have a booth at Portland's Gear Con 2013.  I will be sure to swing by and say, "Hi!" and perhaps leave with a wallet that is several dollars lighter.  :D

To view their full offering, visit their main website.

Damsel in this Dress Vixen corset with full length bustle skirt.
 (The Vixen corset comes with a removable hood.  Brilliant!)

Welcome to Morgan's Compendium

Welcome to my new blog!!

Like all things Steampunk, here you will find an eclectic mix of objects, images, and stories from my adventures.  I may even include the occasional arts & craft project in celebration of the DIY (do-it-yourself) spirit of the Steampunk community.

Who am I and why am I doing this blog?

My name is Morgan Mechan.  "Mechan" is short for "mechanical" and "mechanic."  I am an author working on a young adult, Steampunk novel based in 1860 Virginia.  (Yup, I'm writing multicultural Steampunk adventures.)  I'm also a mechanical engineer who earned a Bachelor of Science at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH.  Needless to say, the geek girl in me jumped with glee when I started to learn more about Steampunk culture, gadgets, and costumes.

Recently, I was asked to sit on some author panels at Portland's Gear Con 2013.  So, if you are there, please say "hi" to the new girl - that would be me!  (I will be sure to include pictures of my first Steampunk gathering in upcoming posts.)

In the mean time, here is my latest find....

Steamed Up Designs

My dear friend, Mel, is the creative genius behind Steamed Up Designs.  The link above takes you directly to her Etsy store.  I have the honor of being her very first customer!

Mel uses a variety of found objects in her designs.  Notice that the anchor piece for the necklace below is a door hinge!  Brilliant!  Though I already own the piece pictured below, trust me when I say that there are loads of other GREAT finds on her sight.  Check it out and let me know what you think....

Thanks for stopping by!  <3 Morgan