Not to say that alterations aren't a good idea, have you considered just selling the current kilts on ebay and using the money toward the cost of a new one? It seems like there are so many willing buyers out there now (do ya' think that Xsmarks has anything to do with that?) that you might clear enough to make a good dent in the price of a replacement. Just another possible strategy...gotta look at the cost/benefit ratio.

Best

AA