Barbs book

[beerbecue]

I like your reasoning Sciuropterus (and your nickname, takes me back to my mammology days). You are quite right, just buying fabric at retail prices is rather expensive. A quick pricing of tartan at the Kilt Store shows that it will set you back about USD 300 for 4 yds DW.

For me, its not about economics. I am utterly and completely fascinated by kilts, and the best way for me to learn as much as I can (at this point in my life) is to construct one. I also have an inexpensive Stillwater that needs major alterations, and for its price, it is not worth paying someone else to do it.

It's how I am with about most everthing I do, computers, bicycles, cooking, brewing, etc. I like to get my hands into it, and learn along the way. I am a research scientist in molecular microbiology, so I guess it is in my nature to tinker....

[bubba]

Having made several kilts from the Folkwear pattern, I know the costs. I manage to do it inexpensively by using tartan type material I find at the fabric store, like my last kilt in 14 oz wool. For me the making is an enjoyable passtime.The first kilt I made from denim and I wear that when I'm painting or doing messy chores. As you said, each one gets better. My materials investment for my last kilt was around $50, but I sew anyway so some things, like lining and thread and needles I already have. Making kilts is a great hobby if you like detail work. Barbs book should take me to the next level.

[richardljohnson]

...for most people, it is probably a false economy to make your own high-end wool kilt using traditional methods and workmanship,

...rewarding if it turns out good), just go into it knowing you will likely not save any money and consider it a learning experience.

I would say there is not much price difference between making it yourself and having a traditional kilt made to measure by someone who does it professionally. Buying the proper fabric and all the incidentals to make one kilt can add up quick, especially if you are paying retail! Not to mention the value of your time, which should not be ignored, especially if you have a family.

Plan on spending a lot of time with no guarantee the first one will turn out like you hoped.... Each one you make will be better. If you just want a kilt, start saving up and buy one from a professional kiltmaker and be done with it...

After making more than a few machine made and trying my hand at a 'hand sewn' there is nothing here I can't disagree with except the line...

...I don't know ANYONE who has put on their new hand-tailored worsted wool kilt and said "Gee, I wish I had just made one myself instead of buying this".

However, the "I made ths myself" factor for some of us is still a driving factor!

Richard-

[beerbecue]

To quote Richard-
"However, the "I made ths myself" factor for some of us is still a driving factor!"

That reminds me of the saying "I make the beer I drink"

For those of us making (errr, trying to make...) their own kilts it would be, "I make the kilts I wear"....

Regardless, I can't wait to buy a tank either!

[richardljohnson]

To quote Richard-
"However, the "I made ths myself" factor for some of us is still a driving factor!"

That reminds me of the saying "I make the beer I drink"

For those of us making (errr, trying to make...) their own kilts it would be, "I make the kilts I wear"....

Regardless, I can't wait to buy a tank either!

Well, as a former home vinter and brewer I use to think I was running low when I got to 25 gallons of beer and 150 bottles of wine or 50 bottles of sparkling wine...BOY, those were the days. Maybe I transfered from one thing to another. Now with about 20 kilts...well, you get the idea!

Richard-

[beerbecue]

I certainly do!!

Have to have plenty on hand, 'just in case'....

[bubba]

The book came today and, I must say, I'm impressed. This is going to take my kiltmaking to an entirely new level. I highly recommend it to anyone even thinking about making their own kilt. It's beautifully organized and put together. The spiral binding makes it easy to keep on the table as reference while working. 5 stars, no question.

[beerbecue]

My Hunting Stewart fabric arrived, I think it passed the symmetry test (horizontal stripes match perfectly), and I will start construction soon.

I am currently altering a Stillwater kilt that is quite a few inches too big, so I must finish it first.

As a neophyte in the world of kilts (especially making a kilt), I am thinking of taking some photographs along the way, documenting my adventure (including the alteration), that is if anyone is interested.

I can post it to a personal web page, or to a personal gallery here I suppose.

Suggestions? Interest?

I know the first one won't be perfect, but maybe more than one of us could learn along the way. Mind you, this will be a LONG journey....

[bubba]

It might be a long journey, but I think one you'll find immensely satisfying. By all means keep us posted on your progress and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Someone here will be able to answer your questions. I've started really reading Barbs book, The Art of Kiltmaking, in between family obligations. I'm learning a great deal and once I read it through completely I'll certainly be applying what I learned and I'm sure I'll be referring to it often.

[dana]

My Hunting Stewart fabric arrived, I think it passed the symmetry test (horizontal stripes match perfectly), and I will start construction soon.

I am currently altering a Stillwater kilt that is quite a few inches too big, so I must finish it first.

As a neophyte in the world of kilts (especially making a kilt), I am thinking of taking some photographs along the way, documenting my adventure (including the alteration), that is if anyone is interested.

I can post it to a personal web page, or to a personal gallery here I suppose.

Suggestions? Interest?

I know the first one won't be perfect, but maybe more than one of us could learn along the way. Mind you, this will be a LONG journey....

I'm sure you'd have plenty of interest in a photgraphic journal of your kilt altering and assembly.

Sounds like a great idea.

dana