@ Anne - I'm using a back stitch, which, I believe, should meet that requirement. This is the first thing I've actually ever sewn, because I chickened out of making the kilt. If I interpreted the instructions correctly, this should work just as you say. It looks like a long, straight line of stiching without any spacing in between. My stitches are about 1 cm in length, and they double back half-way into each stitch, creating 1/2 cm stitches. It seems pretty sturdy so far.

@ Martin - That was my plan, to use the steam iron. Have you checked out Marton Mills's Jura range of tartans? A wide selection at a reasonable price. The quality of the cloth passed Matt's inspection, and the kilt I got from it looks good. It's less than GBP 20 a meter, double width.