And now the wait...............

[Grizzly]

Some of you may recall that I started a thread regarding the choice between DC Dalgleish and Lochcarron fabric . Well to cut a long story short Lochcarron won the day, primarily because they could supply the fabric faster. Both my choices were out of stock so it came down to a choice of first to supply wins. I think that I would have gone with Dalgleish but they really need to sort out their order process and communication.

Anyway this leads me to why I was in the company of our own Paul Henry last Sunday afternoon. I have commissioned Paul to make my first proper tank. 8 and some more yards of 16oz Lochcarron Strome to be transformed into a work of art. Paul and I have been discussing this for a while so it was a shock when he informed me that he had received delivery of the fabric well in advance of the anticipated supply date.

Meeting with Paul was an absolute delight. We went through all of the options, pleating to the stripe variations, number of straps, design of the lining, choices of buckles, quality of leather, whether I wanted belt loops, hidden hip strap or button hole etc.... the choice was mind boggling and endless.

Needless to say that eventually I decided what I wanted and so far haven't changed my mind on the options.

Working with Paul was a total pleasure and I am sure many of you have experienced his thorough knowledge and talent. I am very impressed with his dedication and commitment to making the finished product the creme de la creme.

I am convinced that I will receive an heirloom quality product which will be totally bespoke and last for decades. Shame no one in my family is my size, oh well they can always have it re-made as there will be loads of fabric.

So when you order your next kilt, if you can, deal direct with you kilt maker. There are many excellent kiltmakers on here both advertisers and hobbyists. The service and garment you receive will be far superior and made exactly to your requirements.

In the meantime I have the waiting time while Paul finishes some other projects. I know it will be worth the wait.

[BCAC]

It will be worth the wait, Simon. Paul made me an absolutely fabulously unique kilt, definately heirloom quality. Paul is a Master craftsman and a delight to work with. You WILL be pleased with your kilt.

[creagdhubh]

Well said, Simon! Congratulations and I look forward to possibly seeing photos of your new kilt in due course. I understand your reasoning for deciding to go with Lochcarron for your tartan fabric. I adhere to Lochcarron Strome or D.C. Dalgliesh's heavyweight line myself and have not been disappointed in the least. And your point in regards to dealing with a kilt-maker directly is absoultely spot on.

Kind regards,

[Grizzly]

Thanks BCAC and Kyle, I will definitely post pics in due course. Am so looking forward to receiving the finished kilt, I am sure that Paul will do an outstanding job and knowing that I had such a direct input makes it even more special.

Now a bespoke sporran methinks..............think I will give Kate McPherson a ring.

[creagdhubh]

Now a bespoke sporran methinks..............think I will give Kate McPherson a ring.

Go for it! I highly recommend her sporrans; definitely top notch, heirloom quality and expertly crafted. Also, the best full-mask sporrans on the market...bar none.

Cheers,

[Grizzly]

Sadly I dont think the OH will permit a full mask sporran, at least not if she is with me. However I know Kate does some fine fur sporrans which I may get past the board of approval.

[creagdhubh]

Sadly I dont think the OH will permit a full mask sporran, at least not if she is with me. However I know Kate does some fine fur sporrans which I may get past the board of approval.

I understand completely, gotta keep the OH happy!