Fringe or no fringe

[RockyR]

With the full understanding that it serves no functional purpose, I still like it. It adds a bit of visual interest to the edge of the apron. It just looks 'right' to me.

[Chas]

With the full understanding that it serves no functional purpose, I still like it. It adds a bit of visual interest to the edge of the apron. It just looks 'right' to me.

Totally agree. To my mind the kilt does not look finished without it.

Regards

Chas

[creagdhubh]

Totally agree. To my mind the kilt does not look finished without it.

Regards

Chas

***

[Jock Scot]

With the full understanding that it serves no functional purpose, I still like it. It adds a bit of visual interest to the edge of the apron. It just looks 'right' to me.

I quite agree.

[Skiballa]

It needs the fringe in my opinion as well, strange that the ragged edge contributes to the finished look of a kilt, but there it is.

[Domehead]

I'd ask what style will you construct first? If box-pleated, I'd say no fringe. The MacDuff c.1800 from the Museum had no fringe. I'd like to see the Gordon Highlander c.1796, but I can't imagine it did either. If you are doing something more "contemporary" (relative, of course) then have at it.

[piperdbh]

I'd say go ahead and add the fringe, and if you don't like it, you can rip out the stitches and take it off.

[Tobus]

I agree with those who say a kilt looks 'right' with the fringe. Plus, I would think it would be easier to hide errors that way. If you just have a plain edge, you'd need to get a really straight line, whereas with the fringe it can be a little wavy. All you have to do is trim the fringe straight to hide it. But I'm not a kiltmaker, so that's pure conjecture on my part.

[sydnie7]

I agree with those who say a kilt looks 'right' with the fringe. Plus, I would think it would be easier to hide errors that way. If you just have a plain edge, you'd need to get a really straight line, whereas with the fringe it can be a little wavy. All you have to do is trim the fringe straight to hide it. But I'm not a kiltmaker, so that's pure conjecture on my part.

Well, not really. . . it goes on the shaped edge of front apron. But it's not hard to do and I agree with all above who say it just adds that certain touch!

[Dani Mac]

I'd ask what style will you construct first? If box-pleated, I'd say no fringe. The MacDuff c.1800 from the Museum had no fringe. I'd like to see the Gordon Highlander c.1796, but I can't imagine it did either. If you are doing something more "contemporary" (relative, of course) then have at it.

They will be traditional with knife pleats.
Okay, the rabble has spoken. I will be doing fringe. Thanks everyone. I appreciate your experience and expertise.