Description of the types of busk we sell
What is a Busk?
The busk, is a closure fitted in the front of a corset. It is designed so that the corset can be put on and taken off without completely rethreading or removing the lacing each time. There is a series of clasps running along one side, into which a matching set of studs, on the other side, slot, creating a strong fastening. The various types are outlined below.
The Straight Busk
Flexible Busk
Our Busks are made from the finest spring steel and are powder coated for long life. The ends are smoothly ground, then hot dipped to ensure that no damage is done to the fabric of the corset.
The clip fastenings are finished in bright nickel chrome, or gold effect finishes.
These busks are flexible and create a smooth curved front to the corset whilst providing very firm structure and closure.
The separating busk was invented in 1829 but did not appear frequently until 1850 onwards when it was used in most corsets. It is found in the majority of modern corsets.
Please order your busk 1" shorter than the finished length at the centre front of your corset.
Please note, the busks are manufactured in mm sizes. As a result the inch lengths given are approximate.
The Spoon busk
Spoon Busk
This is a classic spoon busk design.
A heavy, curved, steel closure for traditional period corsetry. Very strong and well made, broad rigid busk with six clasps.
These are made of solid steel, are completely inflexible and are made in 2 parts. The are easily recognised as they are wider at the bottom than the top and form a curve out from the waist over the belly.
Historically accurate for the period 1873 to 1889, or for creating modern retro inspired designs.
The Solid steel Busk
Solid Steel Busk
We are now stocking a heavy weight solid steel busk. This busk has limited flex and is well suited to making straight fronted traditional corsets and providing superior figure control.
A steel busk with plastic dipped ends.
The Wooden Busk
Wooden Busk
The single piece wooden busk is perfect for finishing historical corsets or stays. They are tapered, narrowing towards the bottom. They form a solid line at the front of the body and tend to separate the breasts.
The are correct for corsets from about 1500-1820.
Busk Hints & Tips
When you look at most busks, you will notice that there are two studs and clasps set closer together, this indicates the bottom of the busk. On a spoon busk, this coincides with the broader, rounded end.
This design allows more strength at the point where your belly is going to get pulled in ;)
On very short busks for cinchers and low cut corsets, the clasps might be evenly spaced, so it doesn't matter which way up you put