Hey Barb...

[Jimmy Carbomb]

I have a couple 16-ounce kilts here that are in need of serious repair. Both were made the "proper" way (for the most part) but aren't working for the owners. Both are having serious issues with the left side of the front apron. Both are curling-out with serious pulling on the apron itself.

The question is one of simplicity.

Rather than have to disassemble the beltline/cap, and have it altered to "bring-in" the under-pleat by pulling it up just a notch... is there a way to use a hidden stitch or stretch the fabric with ironing to get it to lay properly? One of the guys tried to iron a wider taper in the edge, and it helped a bit. Once he loosened the hip-buckle on the right hip, it helped too. But, there's still a pronounced pull.

These kilts are pretty old, and I'm a little hesitant to disassemble them due to the age. The fabric is solid, and the weave is dense. The stitching is also VERY tight, so ripping the seams is a scarey proposition.

It almost appears like it's going to be a combination or "repairs" to get them to hang like they should. What do you recommend to be the most evasive and still "git-r-done"?

Again, these kilts are wool traditionals... not machine sewn or casuals.

Thanks in advance... AGAIN.

[Jimmy Carbomb]

Thanks Margorie for the tip on the cap. I had been taught that technique, and must have had an "oldtimer's moment"!

Linda and Angus... I didn't know you guys were reading this too?!! I'm glad that you pop-in to see what's up! I'll be north tomorrow, so I'll bring-up the kilts so that you can see the condition of the material. It's really not in bad shape... just old.

In answer to YOUR notes:

YES. I'm well aware since I'm still in contact with everyone. They have long memories, and already "know the source".

YES. The kilt in question has been examined by the makers, themselves. It was an early version that was in-stock. They've actually offered a replacement! That's pretty cool... but entirely unnecessary. Fortunately, the upper-eschelon is "with it".

NO. Not until the contracts are signed, sealed and delivered. Six of seven are done, but the last one will have to wait until October. We also have another offer on the table that WILL be accepted. I'll throw the information to you all in the correspondence for September. It will be here soon enough!

YES. The North Carolina source is bidding against the Massachusetts/Connecticut group. Right now, we're tempted to take BOTH offers and split them between the six. There should be enough backing to support both of them... along with the "Right to work" Georgia group. That's all up to H.

With that... I'll close this thread!