Of 4 handsewn heavy or midweight wool 8yd kilts I own all have had at least three or more rows of basting stitches when recieved by shipping. One had 5 rows.

Of 10 machine sewn or partially handsewn heavy or midweight wool 8yd kilts I own half came with basting (usually two, maybe three rows max) by shipping. 2 of the ones that came with no basting have been sent out to Kathy Lare for some subsequent size revisions which returned without basting but well boxed.

One PV off the peg 8yd kilt had no basting upon arrival.

I must admit that although basting helps keep the kilt from developing wrinkles over the pleated sections it does nothing for the aprons, and that is where I seem to find the most problems with wrinkles/rumples upon receipt. Nothing a good steaming either with a formal steamer or by hanging in the bathroom for a couple days where showers were taken couldn't fix right up. I do not recollect ever having rumpled or creased pleats eitherwith or without basting. I would say it is about half and half as to whether my kilts arrived neatly folded in an appropriate length box (so the kilt was not folded across its length, only along the pleats) or in a soft shipping bag (usually folded several times along the pleats and at least once across the pleats).

Enough rambling about history. I guess what I am trying to say is I think basting has some value but am not sure exactly how much, as my pleats have never been an issue from the standpont of requiring (ever) a pressing, as a simple steaming returned thier natural shape. I may have (carefully) pressed a front apron once or twice when I did not wish to suffer the time to do a full steaming, but steaming and proper hanging (Scotweb and Celtic Croft kilt hangers only) have been all my kilts of various types and grades have required over several years. The steamer remains in the closet with them, ever at the ready.

I hope I never have to send a kilt out for formal cleaning that requires I have to re-baste the pleats, as, although I have a history with a needle and thread sewing some clothes and kites, I would never pretend to know I had any idea how to baste a set of kilt pleats properly for cleaning and/or pressing.
jeff