SportKilt Alterations for "authenticity"...

[Jimmy Carbomb]

Because I'm often asked about making a SportKilt into a more "traditional" look... here's a few things that you can do with a sewing machine to make it look a little more "wearable".

1). The front apron has no taper, and usually is not uniform in the pattern. By "ripping-out" the sewing on the right side, you can re-line the edge with a 1.5" taper to resemble a normal kilt. Make sure to do the same on the left side. If you're able (and have the skill) try to match the tartan pattern. This may mean that you need to rip the waistband for about one or two pleats... straighten-out the pattern and apron width, then re-sew the thing. It's really not that tough to do.

2). The pleats are OFTEN not straight when they arrive. Get a hot iron and line-up the pleats so that they're straight. When finished, you can sew a "permanent pleat" into them by sewing a line from the beltline to the bottom, about 3/8" in from the edge.

3). If you're really bold, the hips can be tapered and sewn-down too. Start at the right side and move to the left as you're going. This will help to control any bunching on the underside.

4). On the underside apron, there's usually extra material on the left-side hem. You can cut some off and re-sew the hem, which provides material for belt loops. This allows you to wear a belt, which covers-up the elastic bunching on the waistband, and looks a little more authentic. For an example of how the beltloops should be made, just grab a pair of Levis and see how easy they're made. Sure it's not Scottish Traditional, but then we're not Scottish Kiltmakers!

It, by no means, is a 10-minute alteration. However, when you're finished it will be a little more presentable... by XMarks standards.

[Xcop]

Jimmy, you are a wealth of information. I'm just now heading down the kiltmaking road, and I value any tidbits of information put forth..

David

[STONE CHUCKER]

Jimmy fixed my sportkilt awhile back and it was returned to me better then I could have imagined. It was like getting a new kilt! Jimmy you are the MAN

Chris

[Casey]

Jimmy,

What great instructions.

I have a Sport Kilt. I find it has a more rustic look like a great kilt and treat it as such. It's my knocking around kilt.

I would caution those with a traditional bend to read Jimmy's alteration instructions before ordering a Sport Kilt.

Just for fun. Lounging comfort.

They also look good on the serving lassies at the pub. We have a few here that wear them as a uniform.

Casey

[kilteddispatcher]

Jimmy
Would you by chance be interested in making some alterations on my sportkilt...sewing the pleats and shortening it up some? Short legs and standard length kilts just don't work well together. I would much rather have someone who knows what they are doing, rather than take a chance on a regular seamstress
John

[kilteddispatcher]

Jimmy
Would you by chance be interested in making some alterations on my sportkilt...sewing the pleats and shortening it up some? Short legs and standard length kilts just don't work well together. I would much rather have someone who knows what they are doing, rather than take a chance on a regular seamstress
John

[Blu (Ontario)]

Because I'm often asked about making a SportKilt into a more "traditional" look... here's a few things that you can do with a sewing machine to make it look a little more "wearable".....

Is this not offered as an optional feature? If not, why not?

[Jimmy Carbomb]

Okay, here's the answers to questions:

1).KiltedDispatcher... I'm not able to alter, sell, resell, or distribute kilts (as per an agreement in selling the old kilt company). You CAN ask the kiltmakers if they'll do it for a minimal fee.

2).Blu... James has NO interest in making the SportKilts anything than what they are. They do not make their kilts. They are mass-produced and on the shelf in California. By adding the taper, the care in the pleats, and the loops, they would have to price those things in the range of Bear. Now, which would YOU rather have with your money?

3). Casey... rustic is one word that I've not heard associated with SportKilt! I won't bother to post the ones that I have heard.

4). StoneChucker... you're more than welcome. Atleast YOU know which company used to alter the things. Maybe you can tell KiltedDispatcher who to contact?