Interesting things you find when working on other maker's kilts....

[NorCalPiper]

I have worked on just about every kilt makers kilt at this point (90% are just buckle moves, the rest are re-linings), and I'm always learning bits and pieces of technique when I do. It really is true that while kilt making has a standard as far as construction goes, its the smaller details that become unique to individual makers.
I recently replaced a prong-less buckle on a kilt made by Burnett & Struth. While I didn't have to take anything apart excepting the buckle strap, I did notice the INCREDIBLE fringe on this kilt. It was triple layered, but all layers we trimmed perfectly, and the fringe was....stiff (for lack of a better word). Almost like it had been brushed and hair sprayed straight. It looked amazing, and as a I ran my finger through it, it snapped right back to its form! Is there something I'm missing to achieve this effect? The first layer is 1/16 of an inch, the second under 1/2 inch, and the third layer under 3/4ths of an inch.

[creagdhubh]

Wow, I wish the fringe on my kilts were like that! I would ask Paul Henry, as he makes kilts with a triple fringe, that does appear to be stiff.

Cheers,

[NorCalPiper]

I personally just do a double fringe and have always liked it......until now! M-U-S-T L-E-A-R-N....

[CopperNGold]

Could it be felted and then some sort of permanent sizing applied?

[Downunder Kilt]

I have two kilts made by Highland Clans which also have the fringe you describe Josh. One is 13oz HOE cloth and the other Lochcarron 16oz, but both bounce back as you say

[Braemar Kiltmaker]

I've found enough "surprises" when altering that I now prefer to only work on ones I've made myself! Can't quite make it an absolute rule, but I WISH I could.
One time I had an apron almost apart to enlarge a kilt before I discovered that a 6"x8" piece had been cut out of it ... looked like just about the right size for a new set of buckle tabs.
And a few years ago I was altering a number of Burnett's & Struth kilts for a pipeband and they were all made with the wrong side of the tartan out!

Ron.

[Pleater]

Could it be felted and then some sort of permanent sizing applied?

I wonder if it could be 'Fray check' or similar - it is designed for use on open edges, to prevent them undoing themselves.

I have been hesitating to make fringes due to concerns about them becoming matted or going into self destruct - I considered using waterproof white wood glue, diluted down - but 'Fray check' might be the safer option.

Anne the Pleater

[Barb T.]

I've found enough "surprises" when altering that I now prefer to only work on ones I've made myself! Ron.

Me too - that's my rule as well for full-on alterations. I silill do buckles and hems although even that can be unpleasant - you would not believe the stench that rises from some kilts that isn't apparent until you start pressing the kilt....I now inquire at least whether the person is a smoker or has worn the kilt in places where people smoke. If the answer is yes, I send them elsewhere even for buckles.