Is Fringe a benefit?

[TheBrus]

I never realized how difficult the waiting for a new kilt was. The physical pain of anticipation is excruciating! The jones are a slow burn. It's been one month, five more to go, and I should be the proud custodian of a new kilt made by MAC Newsome. I've passed the time so far by quiety browsing for accessories. (Matt the Jedi Mind Trick doesn't work through the XMTS forum does it? If it does: You want to make my kilt next. You can't wait to make my kilt.)

My question: should I opt for the fringed edge? My order-form indicates no fringe, but I'm sure there's time to change my mind. I sent Matt six yards of 16 oz weathered Logan (MacLennan) tartan yardage from Marton Mills. I ripped the fabric so that the kilt (hopefully) will fall just at the top of my knee cap. The design will be a six-yard knife pleated kilt with brown straps. I intend the kilt for everyday or casual evening wear... nothing too high-toned.

Knowing all of this, whether it's important or not, what are the pros and cons of fringing?

[Pyper]

I can't imagine owning a kilt without fringe. It appeals to my disorderly mind. I like fringe on rugs, too.

[Ryan Ross]

I don't like having fringe. In fact, I almost wish I had asked Matt to remove the fringe from my Ross Hunting kilt, last time he worked on it.

It can get rumpled and disarranged, and so requires extra care. It can pick up little fuzzies from all over the place. I think it can interrupt the all-around visual flow of the kilt.

I have one kilt with, and three without, and yeah, I prefer it without.

[Paul Henry]

the Fringe doesn't really serve any purpose, but it's a lovely decorative touch, unlike Ryan's, mine don't seem to be uncontrollable and behave well, and don't need any extra care.
When I'm making a traditional kilt my default is to go for a triple fringe,subject to the client being happy with that, I can only remember one client wanting a double one , but I was happy to make that for him.
My vote woud be definately for a fringe, it provides that little something extra , and really does seem to make the kilt something special

[Ryan Ross]

the Fringe doesn't really serve any purpose, but it's a lovely decorative touch, unlike Ryan's, mine don't seem to be uncontrollable and behave well, and don't need any extra care.

Matt's worked on several of my kilts after they've been worn by me for extended periods. Don't get me wrong, I always take good care of my things, but in Matt's words to me "You wear your kilts HARD".

Haha- I think that may have something to do with it. Plus, the main area that tends to get mussed is where the sporran strap intersects it. Maybe I'm just weird.

[ForresterModern]

Double or triple fringe man myself,in part because of the look, in part because it adds extra fabric and thereby weight to the fringed apron edge helping keep it hanging straight even in adverse climatic conditions.

[chrisupyonder]

Both of my 8yd 16oz wool tanks have a triple fringe. I think it adds that finishing touch and would not like "no fringe"

Chris.

[creagdhubh]

Double or triple fringe man myself,in part because of the look, in part because it adds extra fabric and thereby weight to the fringed apron edge helping keep it hanging straight even in adverse climatic conditions.

I agree.

[artificer]

I like the fringed edge. I had Matt put one on my R'lyeh tartan kilt.

ith:

[Jock Scot]

I can't say I really think about the fringe, but I like to know its there when I do.