Quote Originally Posted by OC Richard View Post

My impression is that Matt Newsome, perhaps based on a specific museum kilt, started making and selling 4-yard boxpleated kilts as a US-based historical re-creation. I'd never heard of such kilts until I learned about Matt and the Tartans Museum.
IIRC I was told years ago that Matt was taught by Bob Martin, who did box pleats based on his personal research. Matt left the the Tartan Museum to take a
position as a college chaplain, and we no longer see him at the Stone Mountain Games. His other obligations got him backlogged with kilts and he ceased taking new orders until catching up; I don't know where he stands at the moment.

I don't know if Bob Martin is still around or active with kilts, but both he and Matt published their writings, and those who have one of their kilts treasure them.
My understanding is that Bob recommended four yard box pleat kilts of heavyweight cloth; he and Matthew being based in the Carolinas were aware of the
warmth and weight of 8-yarders in the South. They provided a solution. Four yards for weight and cooler, 16oz. cloth for durability rather than more yards of lighter cloth.

That's all I've got, and I think it is at least loosely connected with reality.