Hand sew a X-Kilt

[The F-H.C.A.G.]

I have hand sewn parts of the X-Kilts that I've made. I'd say that it can be done, but given that you will be sewing down all the outer and inner edges of the pleats, this is going to be one LOOOOOOOOOOONG project if you hand sew it.

You see, the materials recommended for an X-Kilt are generally not those that hold a pleat well, and in order to maintain the pleats through machine washings, you will need to sew down these edges. I'd recommend, if you value your sanity, that you just find yourself a cheap, used sewing machine.

You don't need anything fancy for this. My machine is 20 years old, and does a fine job.

Be well,

[Pleater]

I will hand sew 8 yards where I only need to do the aprons at the edges and the waistline, and I have done one where I had to turn up a hem, but the speed and ease of a sewing machine turns a week's work into something done in an afternoon.

If you can find an older type machine which is all mechanical, does a range of useful stitches and a few fancy ones it should not cost much and it should give good service - unless it was owned by someone using it six hours a day, of course when it is highly likely to be worn out.

Normally when things get worn the machine clatters when running, so it is not difficult to tell.

One feature which would be a good thing is an automatic button hole - a thing which you put onto the machine, put the button you want to use into it and the machine then creates a button hole to fit.

It is not essential, but it is useful, just don't pay overmuch for it.

Once set up with your machine you should be amazed at how many things you can achieve with it, turning odds and ends of fabric into useful items.

Of course you might also end up unable to pass a fabric shop and have a 6ft high stack of fabrics - but I can't quite work out if that is a disadvantage or not - you'll never find that a wet weekend is wasted ever again.