What gives a better cinch, cords or ribbons?

Originally, we posted our videos on this subject in December 2023. Since then, we have encountered this question many more times. Some people openly expressed disbelief that a satin ribbon could be strong enough for a corset, and accused us of sacrificing function for aesthetics. They advised each other to buy a skein of cord and swap immediately.

While we are happy to see our clients use our designs and modify them, it's important to pick the right cords. Many cords on the market are not suitable for corsetry, because they have a give or stretch out with time.

We use a tested brand of non-stretchy satin cords for cord-laced designs. Our cords are nylon, you may use cotton or hemp if that's your preference, as long as it doesn't stretch. Avoid cords that look like two distinctive strands of fibers twisted together, that's one of the worst things you can get. Also avoid woven cords that feel like shoelaces. Trying to tighten a corset with a stretchy cord was one of the most frustrating corset-related things I've done.

Our default option is a strong double-faced satin ribbon. I wear our corsets myself, and I'm strong enough to rip a ribbon, but it only happened a couple of times when the ribbon was already worn out. It's definitely enough for casual wear (I'd say up to 12cm/5 inches of waist reduction.

TLDR: Based on the experience we gathered over eight years, there's no functional difference between cords and ribbons in your fan lacing, it's just a matter of aesthetic preference. 

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