Shortening A leather Utilikilt

**mac** · 12th January 14, 08:18 AM

As the end is unfinished
can I shorted a 23.5 inch Leather UK to a 21.5 inch?

it just cut it - or will the pleat threading start to undo?

thanks

Mac

**Riverkilt** · 12th January 14, 06:57 PM

If I remember my old Utilikilt leather the hem is unfinished. You should be able to just cut it shorter. As for the pleat seams you could use some clear nail polish on the inside of each pleat seam before you cut it...obviously in the area you'll be cutting. As you cut each pleat seam you could dab a bit of clear nail polish on the bottom to further secure the threads.

Just thoughts - I'm in no way a leather worker or a seamstress.

**mac** · 13th January 14, 04:53 AM

thanks riverkilt
yep its unhemmed - but there is a finish to the thread - but your solution may well solve that

**Pleater** · 13th January 14, 05:13 AM

If you have superglue that might do the trick too. If you have to buy some then the thicker sort which doesn't run as far and dry so fast would be the best. One tiny dab onto the inside of the last stitch or so of the thread should hold it.

Anne the Pleater :ootd:

**mac** · 13th January 14, 09:49 AM

Thanks all
i suspect its going to be very scary chopping though - better get some new SHARP scissors

**Canuck** · 13th January 14, 11:42 AM

I would use a OLFA rotary cutter and straight edge. Basically all you need to do is cut two inches from the bottom all around. I would carefully measure up from the hem and mark it with a gel pen. The markings can be removed with a bit of spit. Test first. I would cut it with the pleats closed you can then cut straighter, if you splay the pleats out there will be a curve you will then need a flex curve guide to cut a smooth cut.
The front apron does have a false hem, but I don't think you need to replace it, but if you wish you can glue a 1" strip from the waste.
If you wish you can ask a shoe repair or even some drycleaners will have a machine to backtack each pleat and you will be good to go
Cheers
Robert
(I make leather kilts so I know what's involved)