Stretch Test

**imbrius** · 8th July 19, 05:56 AM

My new 5-yard wool kilt from J. Higgins fails the stretch test.

I knew it would because Higgins does not add stabilizers to 5-yard kilts. The stretch isn't permanent (yet). It is noticeable when worn (wavy dark vertical line) but looks fine when hung up / laid out.

My questions are:

Is it possible to add a stabilizer to an unlined 5-yard kilt?
Is is cost effective to do so, versus saving up for a properly-made 8-yard kilt?

**The Wizard of BC** · 8th July 19, 08:12 AM

Almost any kilt can be improved by altering it to include a stabilizer and interfacings. Some have even done it to the Pakistani pub kilts.

Will the previous threads on kilt alterations be enough to guide you or do you need more specific instructions?

**imbrius** · 8th July 19, 08:24 AM

Originally Posted by The Wizard of BC

Almost any kilt can be improved by altering it to include a stabilizer and interfacings. Some have even done it to the Pakistani pub kilts.

Will the previous threads on kilt alterations be enough to guide you or do you need more specific instructions?

I think they should be enough to guide me. And if I get stuck, I can take photos and post them for guidance. Thanks!

**Steve Ashton** · 8th July 19, 08:31 AM

OK, good luck.

Remember, we are here to help.

Post photos of the progress. They may serve as inspiration to others to do the same.

**gsmacleod** · 8th July 19, 09:28 AM

I ended up with two acrylic kilts; one was given to me and one was for sale used locally for next to nothing in MacLeod of Harris.

Following Steve's wonderful posts here (mostly this one - http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...05/index5.html), I added a stabilizer and interfacing to both. While it may not be "worth it," to spend all the time modifying an acrylic kilt, at some point I'm going to try to build my own kilt so I figured it would be great to learn these skills.

I've learned quite a bit and my hand sewing has improved dramatically so I feel much more confident about tackling my own at some point.

I also basted and repressed which has improved things quite a bit in terms of how they hang in the back. Not perfect but I've reduced the shower curtain effect quite a bit.

Good luck,

Shane

**tripleblessed** · 11th July 19, 07:02 AM

Originally Posted by gsmacleod

I also basted and repressed

The concept of a repressed kilt is unfathomable. Mine are exceedingly outgoing; impossible even to abash, much less embarrass to the point of repression
even after a good basting with a carpet beater.

Oh. You mean you spruced it up.

**Pleater** · 8th July 19, 10:43 AM

I think it is always worthwhile to give a lesser fabric good support - without it the garment will last no time at all, with it there is at least no sagging and stretching at the important points so it looks better for longer - and you don't get those with a bit of tailoring or dressmaking experience tutting at it in passing.

**Tarheel** · 8th July 19, 12:10 PM

Good instincts on solving your problem.

**Tarheel** · 11th July 19, 09:52 PM

Bravo Shane. Good examples in the photos.

**imbrius** · 4th August 19, 02:29 PM

I've decided to get a quote from USA Kilts for the maintenance (Moving buckles to size down 1/2", adding stabilizer, interfacing, and liner, and checking, basting, and pressing pleats) since I will have a calendar gap starting in early November (after my friend's wedding) until late January (Robert Burns suppers) where I won't need to wear a kilt. If the quote is doable, I might send it in for a professional job instead of trying to DIY it.