What to buy 4 yard or 8 yard and where

[ronstew]

8 yards and 4 yards are ranges, not firm numbers. I'd guess that a thin bloke like yourself would come in around 7 yards for a nice kilt. Depends on the sett, and how you want it pleated.

Don't get hung up on numbers. Find a good kiltmaker who will take time answer your questions.

[The Wizard of BC]

First, welcome to our rabble.

There are many grey and based Tartans. Each weaving Co. has their own grey Tartan. Each with its own name. Highland Granite in 16oz. Strome is what my Traditional Kilt is made from.

The amount of fabric in a Kilt is determined by the Sett or size of the Tartan pattern and the customers Hip size. Someone as small as you may not need a full 8 linear yards to make a full Kilt.

The so called 4 & 5 yard Kilts are usually machine made and of lesser yardage because the company skimps somewhere in the Kilt to produce a less expensive Kilt. This skimping is usually done in the Pleat depth or the size of the deep and reverse Pleats. These things have a lot to do with how the Kilt swishes and how the aprons lay. If possible (This means if your budget allows) go with the Kilt that is hand sewn and uses the most amount of fabric.

Many of the Kiltmakers who advertise here will be able to beat or come close to the price you quoted. And many of us are in N. America so you will save on shipping and possible duty and taxes over a Kilt purchased from an overseas Kiltmaker.

The secret to sorting through all this information is ask questions. Ask them her on the forum and ask them of the Kiltmaker you choose.

In fact the best way to find the best answers to your questions is to ask several Kiltmakers. Bounce the same question off each one. After talking to just a couple you will get to know what are good answers and what are answers given by a sales clerk or someone who just wants to sell you a "Package".
Most reputable Kiltmakers will talk to you and answer all your questions with patience and understanding because we've all been in your same situation before.

If you have till August there is plenty of time to get the best Kilt for your money. One which will be able to be worn with pride and which will last a long time.