Another hom-made kilt

[richardljohnson]

Welcome to the ranks of the 'home-made-kiltmakers-guild'.

RLJ-

[The Wizard of BC]

Hey, If all you guys continue making your own kilts I'll starve to death.

Then again, if you can't afford one, ask and I'll send you the pattern I use for Freedom Kilts.

I have a copyright on it and the patent is applied for. So as long as you don't try to compete, more power to you.

Great job guys. keep it up. And "make-it-sew".

[bubba]

Steve, that's a darned nice offer. For myself, I prefer tartans and I find them on clearance at the local fabric stores mostly, but that kind of offer to the group should earn you a halo.

[The Wizard of BC]

I don't need a halo thanks. Where I'm going when I die it would be more out of place than a kilt.

And who says you can't make a Freedom Kilt from a Tartan? I just don't offer one from my store. I figure there are a lot of fine tartan kilt makers out there.

I developed my pattern, I didn't copy anyone elses, but who says mine is any better than theirs. Not better-just different. If you don't like mine, buy theirs, and versa-visa.

I make the best I am capable of, and I back it with my honor. Each one is custom made. My prices are not cheap, but better than many out there. (and I won't preach at you)

If someone really, really wants to wear a kilt and can't afford one, I'll help him every way I can.

Oh and yea, that step 4 that seems to be missing from my directions, I'm sure it's a typo, honest.

[bubba]

After a bunch of experimentation I pretty much settled on the Folkwear pattern set, with my own mods. I make my own primarily for lack of money. The medical industry gets most of that until my wifes and my surgical bills are paid off. Making my own also keeps me busy and out of the bars.

[GMan]

I must admit the Folkwear patterrns are pretty nice! Also Steve I want to repeat what Bubba said about that offer of yours, what a great gesture. Thank You.

[bubba]

Glen, I have the Folkwear set and a Simplicity pattern set. For my money the Folkwear is by far better for kilt instructions being easier to follow. Included are patterns for a PC coatee, waistcoat and knitting instructions for Argyle hose and a knitted vest. The Simplicity set includes a pattern for an Argyl jacket and instructions for a scarf and fly plaid. Both are good The Simplicity is pattern 5029

[Martin Fr]

I did not bother with a pattern, just worked on what I could observe of my professionally made kilts, added to the knowledge of what worked and what did not in some plain mugs I had made by converting trousers.

The main thing is to be careful lining up the tartan, of course. Then there is leaving enough spare material round the hips so that it won’t bunch up or crease when sitting down.

Anyway, I’m pleased with the result, and very surprised that I was able to do it with so few headaches!
I should also have mentioned that, while I did all the assembling, adjusting, and hand stitching, my wife did the machine sewing.

Martin

[bubba]

Martin, the main reason I suggest these pattern sets is they instruct how to measure for proper aprons and how to calculate the pleats. It does simplify the process which is a good thing for a first time making a kilt. It eliminates some mistakes.

[richardljohnson]

...The Simplicity set includes a pattern for an Argyl jacket and instructions for a scarf and fly plaid. Both are good The Simplicity is pattern 5029

Bubba, the last time my wife and I were in Walmart she found this and asked if it was any good. I learned from the 'trial and error' method but always looking for shortcuts I had thought about buying the patter to see if I could learn anything. Do you think it's worth the $16.95 in information or is this just something you would suggest for the beginners? I feel confident in my abilities but if I can cut the time from 6-8 hours down to 5-6 hours it might be worth my investment.

What do you think?

RLJ-