Quote Originally Posted by M. A. C. Newsome View Post
Steve is correct in the fact that it has only been since 1932 that the Royal Family has chosen to restrict sale and usage of this tartan. Prior to that it was sold quite commonly as a fashion tartan, similar, I suppose, to the way the Princess Diana tartan is sold today.
It's also worth pointing out that this restriction is in essence a gentlemen's agreement and in deference to the Royal Family's wishes. The design is well out of copyright and there is technically nothing to prevent anyone from weaving or selling the pattern either as tartan or in the original tweed version.