Where to start? TANK quest...

**wscottmac** · 23rd August 07, 11:19 AM

Looking for some recommendations, here, gents. Tell me about your favorite kiltmaker w/ good (low) prices and good service? I'm in the U.S., but have been to Scotland. Went to Locharron, and saw their wool. Seen House of Edgar and Batley's, too. Batley's has a very nice, tight 16oz larger sett version of MacNaughton muted. Any thoughts on St. Kilda? Sound off. Slainte Mhath!

**davedove** · 23rd August 07, 12:07 PM

Don't forget the kiltmakers here in the States. Kathy Lare and Alexis Malcolm both make wonderful kilts. I've got one from Kathy and two from Alexis. Plus, if you use them, you don't have to deal with duty fees.

Of course, if what you want is a Scottish Made kilt, you'll have to go to Scotland for that.

**irishrob** · 23rd August 07, 12:21 PM

Celtic Craft Center has a shop in Palm Springs as well as Scotland. I have two of their "tanks" and they have a lifetime guarantee to adjust the size, in case they shrink or expand while in the closet. I wouldn't hesitate to use any of the suggested kiltmakers who are mentioned in this forum. When in doubt contact the person who recommended him or her.

Best to you

Rob

**The Wizard of BC** · 23rd August 07, 01:45 PM

Hands down, no question, Barb Tewksbury.

Reason one; Barb creates the most beautiful kilts I have ever seen. Her stitches are invisible, her alignment of Tartan perfect, and the construction, well, if it can withstand me it can withstand years and years of anything.
You can find many pictures of Barb's artistry in the "show us your pics" section.

Reason two; Barb participates on this forum regularly. She willingly helps others with advice and sometimes constructive criticism. Eventhough she has about 30 other careers she still stops in to help, advise, and teach.

Reason three; Barb is, along with Elsie Struehmeyer, the author of "The Art of Kiltmaking". There is no better book on Traditional Kiltmaking.

Reason four: Barb is a wonderful person. She even smiles at my jokes although it hurts her to do so.

**wscottmac** · 23rd August 07, 01:52 PM

Thanks, guys. Would you mind pointing me in the right direction (i.e. their websites) as to how to contact these folks?

**The Wizard of BC** · 23rd August 07, 02:44 PM

You can check the members list by clicking on "quick links" above and scrolling down for Barb T. You may then send her a private message.
You can also contact her via her website
http://www.celticdragonpress.com/

**turpin** · 23rd August 07, 02:54 PM

I echo Steve's recommendation for Barb T. You can pay a lot more for a Tank and you won't get a better-made garment. Go to the Kiltmakers forum here and chec out her contributions to the collective knowledge of this community.

Search for Hamish's review of his Tewksbury.

**ChromeScholar** · 23rd August 07, 03:00 PM

One day I will buy a Barbara Tewksbury kilt. Oh, yes, I will...

**drobin** · 23rd August 07, 06:09 PM

Originally Posted by irishrob

Celtic Craft Center has a shop in Palm Springs as well as Scotland. I have two of their "tanks" and they have a lifetime guarantee to adjust the size, in case they shrink or expand while in the closet. I wouldn't hesitate to use any of the suggested kiltmakers who are mentioned in this forum. When in doubt contact the person who recommended him or her.

Best to you

Rob

I'll second that, I've got a CCC kilt and its wonderful. So if in the end you go with the Celtic Craft Center kilt you will not be disappointed. Have fun trying to decide which kilt maker to go with; there will be some great suggestions on the forum.