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Thread: Stretch Test

  1. #1
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    Stretch Test

    My new 5-yard wool kilt from J. Higgins fails the stretch test.

    I knew it would because Higgins does not add stabilizers to 5-yard kilts. The stretch isn't permanent (yet). It is noticeable when worn (wavy dark vertical line) but looks fine when hung up / laid out.

    My questions are:
    1. Is it possible to add a stabilizer to an unlined 5-yard kilt?
    2. Is is cost effective to do so, versus saving up for a properly-made 8-yard kilt?

  2. #2
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    Almost any kilt can be improved by altering it to include a stabilizer and interfacings. Some have even done it to the Pakistani pub kilts.

    Will the previous threads on kilt alterations be enough to guide you or do you need more specific instructions?
    Steve Ashton
    www.freedomkilts.com
    Skype (webcam enabled) thewizardofbc
    I wear the kilt because:
    Swish + Swagger = Swoon.

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  4. #3
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    Quote Originally Posted by The Wizard of BC View Post
    Almost any kilt can be improved by altering it to include a stabilizer and interfacings. Some have even done it to the Pakistani pub kilts.

    Will the previous threads on kilt alterations be enough to guide you or do you need more specific instructions?
    I think they should be enough to guide me. And if I get stuck, I can take photos and post them for guidance. Thanks!

  5. #4
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    OK, good luck.

    Remember, we are here to help.

    Post photos of the progress. They may serve as inspiration to others to do the same.
    Steve Ashton
    Forum Owner

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  7. #5
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    I ended up with two acrylic kilts; one was given to me and one was for sale used locally for next to nothing in MacLeod of Harris.

    Following Steve's wonderful posts here (mostly this one - http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...05/index5.html), I added a stabilizer and interfacing to both. While it may not be "worth it," to spend all the time modifying an acrylic kilt, at some point I'm going to try to build my own kilt so I figured it would be great to learn these skills.

    I've learned quite a bit and my hand sewing has improved dramatically so I feel much more confident about tackling my own at some point.

    I also basted and repressed which has improved things quite a bit in terms of how they hang in the back. Not perfect but I've reduced the shower curtain effect quite a bit.

    Good luck,

    Shane

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  9. #6
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    I think it is always worthwhile to give a lesser fabric good support - without it the garment will last no time at all, with it there is at least no sagging and stretching at the important points so it looks better for longer - and you don't get those with a bit of tailoring or dressmaking experience tutting at it in passing.
    I presume to dictate to no man what he shall eat or drink or wherewithal he shall be clothed."
    -- The Hon. Stuart Ruaidri Erskine, The Kilt & How to Wear It, 1901.

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  11. #7
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    Good instincts on solving your problem.

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  13. #8
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    Quote Originally Posted by gsmacleod View Post
    I also basted and repressed
    The concept of a repressed kilt is unfathomable. Mine are exceedingly outgoing; impossible even to abash, much less embarrass to the point of repression
    even after a good basting with a carpet beater.

    Oh. You mean you spruced it up.

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  15. #9
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    Quote Originally Posted by tripleblessed View Post
    The concept of a repressed kilt is unfathomable. Mine are exceedingly outgoing; impossible even to abash, much less embarrass to the point of repression
    even after a good basting with a carpet beater.

    Oh. You mean you spruced it up.
    I wasn't sure I had before and after pictures but I did find ones for my acrylic MacLeod of Harris:

    Before
    IMG_20190414_1342121~2.jpg

    After (stabilizer, interfacing, buckles sewn to stabilizer, basted and re-pressed)
    IMG_20190616_1341078~2.jpg

    Shane

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  17. #10
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    Bravo Shane. Good examples in the photos.

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