I've always been struck by the work of Lady Chrystel and the marvelous double box pleats she creates. I first heard of them on X Marks and was in awe at the quality of work when these kilts, both tartan and tweed, were modelled by Robert.
I decided some time ago that I wanted one... badly... but also concluded that I'd prefer one in wool than PV which would mean additional saving required. I decided that the most economical way for me to aquire one was to provide my own fabric so I scoured the fabric auctions on ebay for a few months but nothing particularly striking or special jumped out. Then I found a 15oz, 8 yard length of Lindsay Modern being sold by 'myclantartan' an X Marks member. The tartan was made in scotland and is a particularly fine example of the weavers art. It's made by Peter MacArthur of Hamilton (Now sadly, a closed mill ). I've admired the Lindsay for a while and love the deep plum red of it. We also have Downies in our mix who are a sept of Lindsay so there's my excuse
. I bought it in a 'buy it now' stylee knowing this would be just the job for a Double Box.
I had a look at
Chrystels website and figured the €232 (with postage) would take a bit of saving for. I'm not great at saving so in December last year, I contacted Chrystel and Robert and asked how they would feel about an installment plan. I suggested €50 per month for four months with work on the kilt starting after receipt of the final payment. They were more than happy to accomodate this arrangement. Needless to say the wait has been killing me. I sent them the fabric at the end of January and In February I pulled some overtime at work which enabled me to square the deal a month early. I had a feeling when I kicked this off that I wouldn't be able to last the duration.
Anyway... The kilt is now underway (No queue fortunately) and I have the first pictures back of the making of... Both Chrystel and Robert tell me the fabric is lovely.
Chrystel and Robert measure up the fabric to work out the pleating. (Robert posted this on the Saltire in France thread and it was this picture that made me close the deal early... It's like waving a piece of toast at a rottweiler.
)
Much agonising over the pleating decision. Working on advice I've opted for pleating to the red which should (I imagine) give flashes of dark bluey-green when the pleats are splayed.
Working it out precisely.
The pleats take shape.
Basting stitches being applied. About six hours work so far I'm told. It would take me about 6 years and then I'd have to pull them all out and start again.
I am in awe.
I'll post more pictures in this thread, as and when.
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