Simplicity 8162 18th Century Bum Pad
This year, I finally committed to building a historically accurate 18th century ensemble after having been obsessed with the fashions from this time period for years! After finishing my stays, my next step was to create a bum pad.
THE MATERIALS
I used cotton damask sheets for the bum pad. I purchased this gorgeous sheet set years ago, only to realize large areas of the sheet set were discolored - into the mock up fabric pile it went! The tone-on-tone damask pattern is subtle, but pretty, and the fabric was very easy to work with.
I used cotton twill tape that I'd bought on a large spool from bay for the waist ties. The bum pad is lightly stuffed with polyfill from an old pillow. Yay for creative reuse!
I used Simplicity 8162, the first 18th century undergarments pattern by American Duchess. The pattern was easy to follow. I made the bum pad to the smallest size, without adjustments or a mock up.
This bum pad made up so quickly! The entire process, from cutting out the pattern pieces to hemming the ruffle, took less than 2 hours. I sewed this by machine as I had already taken shortcuts with the materials.
Note: stuff the bum pad less than you initially estimate. Too much volume in the bum pad may create a caricature-esque look! I ended up removing nearly half of the stuffing and I'm really pleased with the gentle roundness of the final shape.
Many thanks to the American Duchess team for creating a great, easy to use, easy to fit pattern.
As always, I'd be happy to hear from you if you have any questions or comments about my sewing methods. Happy stitching!
