How many yards for a belted plaid

[Robinhood]

I've searched the archives to find the correct
length for a belted plaid, and all I have found
is between 4 and 6 yards. I'd like to know
how to decide where in this range is the proper
size.

It seems that a mere 4 yards is enough length
to pleat for all but the largest waistlines. I'm
therefore wondering if the choice of length
is determined by factors like height or arm
span, or shoulder width, which may make a
difference in the fit of the upper portion of the
plaid.

Maybe height is a factor in having a blanket
long enough to sleep under (or in) when it
is not being worn.

Can anyone say with any authority how
to tell what length is correct?

[starbkjrus]

Robin,

Try Matt Newsom's website on the Other Kilt Styles page as well as read his article (linked from the above page) on the History of the Great Kilt.

Might be some answers there for you.

[chasem]

4 yards should be suitable for just about anybody, I'd say 5 yards max. The pleats are a lot less "perfect" in a belted plaid. Just fold and belt. As such, the pleat size, pleat spacing, what's showing on the pleat, etc just doesn't matter so much.

I've belted on three yards even, and it felt sufficient. I'd say 3-5, matter of preference.

[Nick]

More material can give you more options when deciding what to do with the material above the belt. 4 yards is enough, but I find I can do a lot more with the top of my 6 yd. kilt than a friend with a 4 yd.

[arrogcow]

Mine is 4 1/2 yd and that is a lot of pleats. Remember though this is 4 1/2 of double width material.

Adam

[David White]

here is one of mine, alittle over 4 yards double width.

[Joe Gondek]

I'm 5'11
48"chest and 41"waist
4.5-5 yards is plenty

[switchblade5984]

great pics david!

you could buy some CHEAP fabric and try it on...

[Oatmeal Savage]

David,

A picture is worth... What type of shoes are you wearing? They look like 18th century straight last shoes.

Thanks
Kevin

here is one of mine, alittle over 4 yards double width.

[Andrew Green]

My belted plaids are 5 yards, and I am around 6'1", and rather large in the middle... with practice, you get a feel for your pleating.
Although I am considering getting a plaide in 6 yards, just to make some deeper pleats, but the fivers get pretty full as they are. 4.5 yards = historically accurate from what I have read. Anything from 4-6 yards should be fine for just about anyone... more than that seems like it would be difficult (I have a 'beag in 6 yards, and it pleats out nicely, but I would not go longer). For most body types, the 4.5 yards should be more than adequate. It's easy to not realize how much cloth you are actually dealing with when you think in terms of "only" 4.5 yards or whatever... just messes with the visualization.