The Art of Kiltmaking is, I understand, an excellent book. Being focused on hand sewing really isn't a big deal, it's a simple matter to use the machine instead. The pattern set talks about hand sewing in some places but I just use the machine. For hidden stitches that won't need to take much stress I use Stitch Witchery, which is a steam activated adhesive tape often used for making fast hems. Another trick I use is fusible interfacing on the inside on the stitched down section of the pleats between the waist and hips. It bonds and doesn't stretch at all, taking the stress off the stitching.Making a kilt the traditional way isn't the only way. You can make good use of modern materials and techniques to save some work and time.