experimenting with casting flounces
I can't say that I am pleased with the result. Key qualities such as the original lightness and gentle layering have been lost. I am going to move away from this approach for the meantime, and begin looking into ways of solidifying my fabric models. A combination of a stiff or stiffened material together with structural inserts will be a better approach and more in keeping with the logic of the corset/petticoat.
i understand your dissatisfaction with the results - but it is also quite beautiful - and interesting in its own right. Would continue these tests in parallel with others that look at ways to strengthen the fabrics (again, go to Tiranti's on Warren Street for some advice - bring some of your pieces and see what they can suggest for you - if you want to do it right). think the solid vs sheet study is an important one to elaborate.
Much of the finesse and detail that you are missing can be re-integrated via some sanding of the final object - the casting is really only the first stage.
Instead of sand, you could also try multiple casts of plaster - adding layer by layer in order to use these to create the mould for the inverse casts.
version 2 - create model to be cnc'd so you can mill bernini-esque drapery.