[Robinhood]

This discussion on worsted wool sparked
a thought from my (thoroughly lousy)
memory. I recall reading somewhere that
worsted wool is commonly finished with
a process that makes is smooth. It involves
a machine that steams or dampens the
woven fabric with hot water and
then flattens (felts) it with little hammers
as it rolls over a metal roller. The fabric
which is already pretty smooth because
there are very few short fibers' ends
sticking out, becomes very smooth and
shiny.

This process is to my recollection the
opposite of fulling, where short fiber
woven wool is felted in a bath and
allowed to shrink and thicken, and the
short fibers' ends encouraged to fluff out.
This makes nice warm but itchy blankets.

[It is interesting to note that some peoples
surnames relate to the work their ancestors
did, which in this discussion explains the
names Weaver and Fuller. I don't ever
recall ever hearing the name Worster,
or Woerster (I don't think Worcester is
related). Maybe there is a different name
for this process, which people still carry.]

[ChattanCat]

BTW, I have made all my kilts with two buckles.

[mrchris]

Back in London now, but when I'm back home again for christmas, I'm going to wander round to the kiltmakers and get fitted up for that kilt then.

It's a reputable kiltmaker, so I'm presuming it's worsted, and if not I've no doubt it's a good quality wool, so will serve my needs (weddings, and occasional events).

2 straps it'll be too, I think I prefer the look of 3, but as it makes no practical difference, I'm happy to go with 2 as the price is quite good.