Dancer's Kilt

[BigAlsMom]

I am seeking information, advice, opinions, suggestions, etc. with regard to a kilt for a dancer. My 11 year old daughter is a competative Highland dancer. She is required to have a "real" kilt when she moves up to the Premier level in May. I would really like to find an American kiltmaker experienced in making kilts for dancers. Thanks!

[The Wizard of BC]

Then look no further than our own Barb Tewksbury.

Author of "The Art of Kiltmaking". And one of the premier kiltmakers in the world.

She goes by Barb T. here and if you send her a Private Message I'm sure she will respond.

[Mr. MacDougall]

We have many fine kilt makers on this board, the which I mention because Steve (The Wizard of BC) is being modest... he's also a kilt maker, though he specializes more in modern refinements than traditional kilts.

As he says, Barb T. would be a good choice, and she participates here.

Welcome to X-Marks!

[BigAlsMom]

Thanks for your quick responses and great information.

[Tattoo Bradley]

Here's a link to her contact info here.

[way2fractious]

Then look no further than our own Barb Tewksbury.

Author of "The Art of Kiltmaking". And one of the premier kiltmakers in the world.

Taking this a step further, the book grew out of Barb T's participation in some kiltmaking seminars that are held around the nation each year. The book documents the classroom instruction for making wool tartan kilts in the traditional manner. With those methods, even a novice kiltmaker can make kilts for man, woman, or child, athlete, piper, or dancer. Particular to young and growing dancers, the book includes tips for hems which can be let down and "hidden" panels of tartan for future pleats.

The five-day seminars - and those who teach them - change dates and places a little each year. And, the seminars we hear about may not be the only ones put on. Try out the book a few times, then look out for a way to get some personal instruction in kiltmaking.

In my limited understanding of the world of competetive dance, dancers kilts sometimes become available for sale or trade as dancers outgrow them, and kiltmakers are born of necessity among the parents and coaches and sponsors.

Good success in your part of the journey along with your dancer.

w2f

[BigAlsMom]

Lovely

[Monkey@Arms]

In my limited understanding of the world of competetive dance, dancers kilts sometimes become available for sale or trade as dancers outgrow them, and kiltmakers are born of necessity among the parents and coaches and sponsors.

Good success in your part of the journey along with your dancer.

w2f

I've seen used dancers kilts for sale at this site in the past:

http://www.highlandxpress.com/used.html#kilts

Best regards,

Jake

[BigAlsMom]

I wish it were that easy Once a dancer has picked a tartan they almost never change it. As a result, you have to get lucky to find a used one in your dancers size and in their tartan. A good majority of kilts are never sold because mom's hang onto them for younger siblings and sentimental reasons. I have ridiculous amounts of information in my head about kilts, dancers, ghillies, swords, hose, vests, bun-making - you name it! Hehehe. My daughter's tartan is one that was commissioned - and only one supplier carries it. So I have to find a kiltmaker who will go to that supplier for that specific tartan or order it myself and find a kiltmaker. But I'm okay with that. My daughter has worked really hard to be a Premier dancer and she deserves one made just for her

[auld argonian]

Didn't know the ins and outs of how the dancers came by their kilts but it sound like you've been involved for a good long time and know all the details. Great that you feel that your daughter deserves it, too.

The Scottish dancing ensembles look so classy and restrained compared to what the Irish dancers are wearing these days...I can't begin to imagine what those Irish dance outfits cost...not to mention those "Riverdance" hair extensions that seem to be so big these days.

Best

AA