Kilt Map (via Google Maps)

[DotDLL]

I've started putting together a map of stores where one can walk in and either try on, or be fitted for, a kilt that they can buy. This is based, in large part, on some of my own frustrations of seeing kilts from online vendors that look nice, but the end product leaves something to be desired, one it has been tried on.

I've posted a link to the map at http://kiltmap.com . I am planning on keeping the map open for all to see. Suggestions for edits are very much welcome. 'Brick and mortar' type stores (where one can walk into) are generally preferred, but I'd consider adding other things to the list.

Might anyone have suggestions for edits or additions?

[The Wizard of BC]

A good starting point would probably be those who support this site.

Freedom Kilts
1919 Fernwood Rd.
Victoria, BC
Canada V8T 2Y6

[DotDLL]

A good starting point would probably be those who support this site.

That sounds good to me. I've added it to the map. Thanks!

[Rick Y]

I don't see Steve's shop on the map.

[DotDLL]

I don't see Steve's shop on the map.

Thanks for the tip!

I'm finding that Google Maps can take a while, often several minutes, to make entries show up.

Maybe try reloading it? I'm seeing it on my end, across a few different web browsers, and across a few different devices (not all of which are logged into Google).

[The Wizard of BC]

One thing you have to keep in mind is that before the internet you did not google "kilt" but found your local kiltmaker who was usually someone working out of their home. Perhaps the best traditional kilt in the world is still made this way. Barb Tewksbury does not have a brick and mortar shop.

[DotDLL]

One thing you have to keep in mind is that before the internet you did not google "kilt" but found your local kiltmaker who was usually someone working out of their home. Perhaps the best traditional kilt in the world is still made this way. Barb Tewksbury does not have a brick and mortar shop.

Agreed. I'm still trying to figure out a good way to list persons or places that are appointment-only, and in some cases, only want an approximate location listed.

[Jock Scot]

Quite right Steve, Barb used to, I don't know if she still does, be found sat on a rock miles from anywhere and "somewhere interesting" sewing away in the midst of some interesting geology or other.

[DotDLL]

I've started adding appointment-only persons/vendors, in some cases, with approximate locations. These are listed in a new, "Appointment ONLY" section, which I hope will be sufficient to let people know that it really is only available by appointment!

If anyone knows if Barbara has a location, even an approximately placed one (such as a city) that she prefers to use, with which she makes available to the public, and provides adequate contact info, I'd be happy to add it!

I've heard a ton of good things about Barbara's work, and wouldn't mind having a kilt from her myself, some day!

[The Wizard of BC]

It's quite common today to expect to walk into a shop and find dozens, or in some cases, hundreds of items hanging on racks. At least two of the places I see on your map do not make the kilts they have in their shop.
There is nothing wrong with that, but please don't forget those who still think of the kilt as a face-to-face personal service. A maker measuring a customer and making the exact kilt requested.

I like to think of it this way. - When you walk into a shop offering off-the-rack garments, you are in effect buying someone else's idea of their perfect kilt. There are still those who prefer to to talk to, and listen to you as a customer, and who are going to make your perfect kilt. Many of these artists do not have rack upon rack of pre-made, or even imported, kilts.

Some of the largest dealers are also those who have created the standardization we think of today as traditional in an effort to make it easier and cheaper to sell in large volume.
For example, the current standard jacket styles, jacobite shirts, ghillie brogue shoes and white hose were not the traditional standard in the days before the internet. There was variety, customization and personal service.

These artists are still around, still offering the best that they are capable of making. Most of the traditional style kilts we prize so much are still made and sold this way. These makers do not usually have fancy, expensive websites, or impressive brick and mortar shops stocked to the gills with product. 2 of these can be found on our side advertiser's banner and 2 on our lower advertiser's banner. Please do not forget these artists for the sake of mass marketing and mass production.