I just had occasion to handle the first kilt I bought. It was made for me in Scotland while I was there and mailed to me here 35 years ago, whoa. It's heavy, from mills that don't exist anymore. I only wore it on special events, like getting married, and I've outgrown it. I took it to Burnett's and Struth to see what it would take to get it made bigger. It would take some money and I have to lose 3-4 inches.

The quality is still there. The wool is still good. I don't have too many other possessions that have lasted that long or are worth putting more money and time into.

I have my army surplus kilt, which did service before coming to me. It still serves for walking on the beach by day and formal dining by night. The quality is still there. It cost me less than the first one so I feel freer with it.

I would not complain about a kiltmaker's rate, only the quality I would get for that money.

By the way, quick plug, you should see the energy Rob of R-kilts puts into his booths at the events. I've seen him a number of times and talked with him. I wear a sporran made by him. The service he gives is incredible and you just can't buy that either. I don't remember if Alan mentioned the time at events as part of the job.