Mk2: Girl's Box Pleat in Roscommon County Crest Tartan

[Barb T]

1. If the added width on the apron is to cover the underapron, why is the underapron also given an extra inch on the same side? (half at the waist) Wouldn't this negate the advantage?

Because you add an extra inch to the underapron just at the hips (and only 1/2" at the waist), this lets the waist really snug in. And it doesn't negate what you've added to the apron edge, because you haven't decreased the pleats. Decreasing the pleats would negate the added amount on the apron edge.

2. Why is the added width not the same on both sides to make the apron perfectly symmetrical? Theoretically asymmetry should make the apron appear a little off centre and it would be easier to match the two apron edges and two underapron edges with each other if one could follow the symmetrical lines in the tartan which would be exactly the same on both sides of the apron/underapron.

You don't add to both sides, because you're not trying to make the kilt bigger. If you added to both sides, the center front wouldn't center any more. By adding just to the apron edge, you preserve the center front in the center but make sure that the fringe actually covers the underapron. And yes, the center front stripe isn't centered in the apron, but it _is_ centered in the front of the body. No one will ever notice that the right apron edge is folded along a slightly different place in the tartan than the left apron edge.

3. The instructions in MaTBPK give different directions for dealing with the two deep/back pleats. Since this kilt is essentially symmetrical, I'm wondering, why shouldn't I either dart or hem both of these pleats the same way?

Some people do, in fact, put a little tapered hem in the inverted pleat. You can do that if you want. I've never found it necessary.

4. MaTBPK also directs me to follow the instructions in TAoKM and join the two fabrics from only 1" above the fell and down. Since this is a box pleat and the fabric will not be cut away I'm wondering if I should actually join the fabric right up or will this create an uncomfortable seam for the wearer to contend with on the lower back?

Since the break in the fabric is covered by canvas and lining, why join it? It just makes a thick ridge, and a join seam under the canvas and lining is unnecessary.

* I have actually converted all measurements and am operating in metric units.

Doesn't matter what units you use. You could use smoots, furlongs, or potrzebies, as long as you're precise!