X Marks the Scot - An on-line community of kilt wearers.
|
-
24th June 09, 05:55 AM
#6
HoS Makes a decent quality machine sewn kilt---double check your measurements before you send them becaseu they are hard to get to take a kilt back for alterations.
T decide on the fabrics you need to see them side by side if possible, although I doubt there is very much variation between a common tartan such as Ancient Campbell. Scotweb lists the same fabrics but shows individual swatches from each vendor separately where HoS uses the same swatch for all three mills. In my experience there is a reason Batley is cheaper---poorer brade selvedge, color schemes more off the standards than other mills, and a generally coarser cloth overall. Marton Mill Jura generally has good bright (especially ancient) colors, a decent selvedge although that can be spotty at times, and is less coarse than Batley but still more coarse than most other mills. HoE 16 oz is nice with a good hand, decent selvedge (they are still getting their rapier selvedges tuned up but are pretty good for the most part, and generally have a good true color pattern. When in doubt go ahead ad drop a few pounds for some swatches to compare before making a big decision, especially if you are matching other similar tartans in an outfit or with family members who weare the same tartan. Otherwise, decide what you think is most important---a little bit of savings in price versus the knowledge that the more expensive mills fabrics are more reliably of better quality overall.
I have HoE and Marton Mills fabrics (as well as Lochcarrons, Dalgleish, and Strathmore) so I am familiar with their quality, feel and finish. I have felt and seen Batley but not ever owned one or kept a swatch of fabric for comparison. I would personally stick with either Dalgleish or HoE, but Marton Mills would be a reasonable alternative. The little bit of savings you would gain from using Batley in my honest opinion is not worth the risk of getting abad piece of fabric or poor color match.
-
Similar Threads
-
By raibeart_dubh in forum DIY Showroom
Replies: 3
Last Post: 20th June 09, 11:13 AM
-
By cavscout in forum How to Accessorize your Kilt
Replies: 19
Last Post: 30th March 09, 08:29 AM
-
By Chef in forum General Kilt Talk
Replies: 5
Last Post: 4th April 08, 03:28 PM
-
By Tartan Hiker in forum Miscellaneous Forum
Replies: 9
Last Post: 25th September 07, 06:01 PM
-
By cessna152towser in forum Show us your pics
Replies: 8
Last Post: 5th March 07, 08:59 PM
Posting Permissions
- You may not post new threads
- You may not post replies
- You may not post attachments
- You may not edit your posts
-
Forum Rules
|
|
Bookmarks