Does this make my butt look big? Or How to make a Bum Roll....

I've been commissioned to make a few gowns for the upcoming Ren season.  We are starting from the base up and as I've already posted on how to do a corset (though this one has hook and eye closure in front....I may just post pics), I know you are all wondering about what else goes under these huge dresses. 

I won't bore you with all the details of what goes where, but will let you know that I've created a few bum rolls and this one is no different.  This project will take less than an hour to put together and an evening to stuff and stitch closed. 

Here's where you start to get a very in depth detailing of how to create a pattern:
http://www.reddawn.net/costume/bumroll.htm

I used the foil trick to get a true curve for the gal I'm making this for.  One trick that isn't listed on the site is you only have to go to just beyond the front hip bone.  You don't need to measure all the way around the hip line.  The ends don't meet in the middle.

From here, it was on to drawing out the pattern, using this as the inner curve.

These rolls can be anywhere from 4" wide to 6+" in back.  This one is a little over 5".  Don't worry if your back curve isn't exact, you can fold your paper and cut what you think is correct and it should be correct on both sides.

Find some type of fabric that is sturdy to use for your bum roll.  You don't want to use a stretch fabric and it doesn't have to be pretty.  This is one of those items that only you will see.  Since I had cotton duck here, that's what I used.  You'll need two pieces, so fold your fabric and cut it out.  Some sites will tell you that one has to go in one direction and another the other direction (grain and cross grain), but I've never had any problems just using it on the grain.  Once you have it cut, double check that the front curve is pretty close.  Be sure to put in a seam allowance or the curve is going to be too big and the roll will slip and slide.

You can see here that it's pretty darn close!  Now you need to find ties.  You can use ribbon (grosgrain, not satin)or even twill tape or you can do as I like to do, shoe laces.  These you can pick up real cheap and not waste your ribbon on something that's not going to be seen. 

You want to line up your ties with the end of the horns on both sides.  These are then going to be pinned down on ONE of the pieces and out of way of the seams.

Put on your next piece so the pins are inside of the roll.  TIP:  When pinning these down, pin TOWARDS the horn.  It will make it easier to take out the pins when you've finished sewing it up.

You're ready to sew this together.  Starting at the center back, you want to be sure to leave at least 5" or more open to turn the roll and to give plenty of room to stuff it.  You also want to be sure to stitch the ties at the very tip of the horns or it won't fit correctly.  If you miss it, rip the seam and do it again.  Trim your seam allowance close to the stitching.  Now, reach inside the roll and take out your pins and pull your ties through the hole.

Use them to help you turn the roll right side out.  If you need something to push the ends of the horn out, a dowel, wooden spoon or even a chop stick work well.  Press it flat and you're ready to stuff it and then stitch the hole shut.  Be sure to stuff it very firm, like you would a toy or doll.  Done!