National Occupational Standards for Kilts

[macwilkin]

This doesn't seem so bad to me. After all, one of the things we as a group have said is that where the Gold Brothers (for example) go wrong is in misrepresenting their product. We as a group have called for truth in labeling. Well, if we're to have truth in labeling, the first step is to decide what can be called a Scottish Kilt.

I don't see any indication that they're planning to shut down anyone who doesn't conform to their standard. I do see this:



Which seems to recognize that different types of kilts are being made, and that the skills related to the production of kilts need to be preserved.

Entirely aside from which, most of us are Americans, so this will have a rather limited impact on us. I anticipate that the Pakistan-made kilts that keep our supply cheap and plentiful will continue to be available. For those who want something more sophisticated, we'll still have the fine sponsors of this board, from USAKs machine-made PV, to FKs modern stylings, to Matt Newsome's hand-sewn traditional box pleats, and beyond. People like Kathy Lare and Alexis Malcolm aren't going anywhere. They may not be Scottish kilts, but they're kilts, and we love 'em.

A very reasoned response, Mr. MacDougall. I think you're spot on in this regard, especially the remarks you quoted:

"We are looking at preserving the traditional skills associated with the production of kilts in Scotland."*

*emphasis mine.

Why shouldn't the Scots be allowed to preserve their traditional skills?

Regards,

Todd

[Phil]

What's wrong with trying to establish a standard? It's nothing to do with "Scottish" or "American" but a method of manufacture using specific material. If you buy a pair of Levi's jeans that's what you are entitled to get, not some "knock-off" from Pakistan or China and the same goes for kilts. Maybe most contributors here know the difference but many others don't. And they get their "authentic Designed in Scotland kilt" home only to find they could spit peas through it, doesn't look as good as their wife's cheapest skirt, is a fire hazard and creases permanently whenever they sit down. So what do they think? Yes they think Scottish kilts are a load of c**p and that's the last time they'll make that mistake. There is no reason why anyone cannot be certified as making kilts to the authentic standard and we know all the kiltmakers here who already do that.