Not sure if this is in the right place or not, but was having a thought, and decided to go ahead and ask.

What is the relationship between the Sett and the Colors of a particular tartan? If I understand correctly, the Sett is what determines the tartan, and the colors are more malleable. For example, the difference between a Clan regular tartan, Hunting tartan, or Dress tartan. Is this accurate? Meaning as long as the weave of the Sett is maintained, the colors can be different yet still be a viable tartan of the clan?

Curious because I'm a Clarke, and the Clark tartan is pretty much a one shot. I don't see a lot of variations out there, possibly because it's a family tartan and not a clan, I don't know. I was just curious about getting some more colors into my kilts when I can afford the next one, and was wondering if there was a way to do this and still wear the Clark tartan, or if I'd have to look at expanding into other tartans I could legitimately wear, such as the US Army, Law Enforcement Officer, or Carolina tartans.

Thanks for any information and education on the subject.


Casey