Wendy Keith Designs - Kilt Hose

**BCAC** · 16th May 13, 08:02 AM

Originally Posted by Pleater

A photo of them actually being worn would give the full effect - though they do look rather good.

As a knitter of hose for some 45 years now I must say that if you want the top quality and hand knitted, then you either need to pay that sort of price or accept lesser quality, or the use of slave labour. If I had to pay myself for what I make I don't think I could afford it.

There are some reductions when buying in bulk, but just the yarn for a pair of blue and white hose cost me 13 pounds, though once I finish them I don't envisage having to make them again.

Anne the Pleater :ootd;

You're right, of course, Anne.

These are top quality hand knitted (by artisans in their own homes) kilt hose and these people should be paid a fair price for their labour.

Maybe one day.

I mean one can save money to be able to afford some of these socks, no?

It's not as if we're buying kilt hose every week nor every month.

**MacCathmhaoil** · 16th May 13, 09:25 AM

I agree whole heartedly that if you want the quality of bespoke hand knit kilt hose then you will have to pay for it, I have no problem paying the premium price to help support the artisan/knitter. I can't afford to buy all of my hose from such but when I can I will, there are too many examples of arts such as this dying out due to lack of financial viability. Really not much difference than buying a kilt, you can pay a bit extra and have one hand stitched by Barb T., Matt Newsome or John at Keltoi or an off the rack, mass produced Asian import. I know which I'd rather spend my money on!

**Grizzly** · 16th May 13, 09:38 AM

Out of interest can you specify a calf size or are they a standard width?

**MacCathmhaoil** · 16th May 13, 09:43 AM

Originally Posted by Grizzly

Out of interest can you specify a calf size or are they a standard width?

I do recall sending them my measurements, Wendy and her staff are very pleasant to deal with you may want to contact them for more detail. They are knit on four needles so I would imagine they could accommodate either a large calf or "birdie legs" such as mine with the measurements.

**Tartan Tess** · 17th May 13, 05:31 PM

I really like the look and as for the cost; a piece of art that you can get years of pleasure out of.
I see no difference in spending good money for a painting or sculpture you enjoy to living with.