For my fellow Marines

[SlackerDrummer]

I don't have a dog in this fight one way or another, but this thread does highlight the need for a chain of command. Heroes they may be, but I don't reckon we'd get very far if decisions were to be decided among the troops.

[FatherWilliam57]

"With all due respect, Colonel, the boys and I took a vote on your last order and instead of taking that hill, we've decided to go to Hooters."

Some decisions may be better than others, but, by and large, I'd have to agree with you, Kenneth!

Of course, the only "orders" that count here, Steve, are the ones you are sure to receive in the shop when you offer this new tartan.

[The Wizard of BC]

For those who have expressed interest in this Tartan...

I have place the order for a minimum yardage special weave from Marton Mills in their Jura (16oz.) fabric.

They tell me that the chances are pretty good that I will have this fabric in my hands by 1 August. That is so I will be able to make the first kilt in this Tartan during Kilt Kamp.

It is my plan to make a full traditional (full-rise, hand sewn, 8 yard) kilt with one small change. I intend to add two of my side slash pockets and an under-apron pocket to this kilt. As far as I can tell this will be the first time this has ever been done.

Right now, before even seeing the fabric I plan to pleat this kilt to the "blood stripe". This is the broader red within the light blue band. I am hoping that this will look reminiscent of the trousers of the Dress Blue Uniform. It should also lighten the look of the kilt as some of you have expressed an interest in.

The Sett size of this Tartan is a bit on the large size at 7 1/4". This was done to allow the Tartan to form an almost perfect 2 1/2" wide box pleat if the owner wished.

As a minimum yardage run from Marton Mills is 14 meters, and I will need about 8.04 yards for my kilt, there should be enough of this fabric left over for three more kilts. I would be willing to make kilts or sell the fabric if someone is interested. If enough people like this Tartan I could even call the weavers and increase the yardage.

But I never actually expected the positive responses that I have received. I honestly thought that most people would comment with "We already have our Tartan". So thank you to all who have responded and commented so far.


p.s. I know that the designer of the Leatherneck Tartan is a member here but has not posted in a long time. If anyone can contact him I would like to hear what he has to say about this new Tartan.

[Geoff Withnell]

I would certainly sign up for enough of that to make a box pleat kilt for 56" hips.

[creagdhubh]

Whereas I think both U.S. Marine Corps tartans are very attractive, I'm afraid it's only Macpherson/Chattan tartans for me. Yes, the majority of you are indeed aware, that I subscribe to the "one clan tartan (and its variants) only" mentality. To each is own.

Cheers,

[Tartan Tess]

I like your new one more than the origional

[M. A. C. Newsome]

Steve,

The tartan design looks good. I don't think a 7.25" is "on the large side," I would say it is about average. The great majority of the tartans I have made kilts from have had sett repeats somewhere in the 7" to 7.5" range.

But my main reason for chiming in on this thread was to point out that there is another kilt option for marines, though not a tartan. Let's not forget about the Leatherneck pipe band who wear blue kilts with a "red blood stripe" addition on the apron fringe. Pretty sharp, if you ask me!

[Mickey]

I really like it and may be interested in one if I have the cash.

Matt, great shots! I've never seen those before. Thank you

[Riverkilt]

Seems like the Marines who are members of the SAMS would be a great market for this tartan kilt. Would look perfect with the khaki shirts. Don't know if there's a way to get an information piece in the SAMS newsletter....just seems the perfect market.

[Steve Ashton]

Sorry Ron, SAMS is what?