double wide?

[davidlpope]

This may be a simple question, but what is the deal with double wide cloth?

I've notices several threads looking to collect a group order and I see things like: 6 yards single width, or 4 yards double width, or some similar. Is 8 yards single = 4 yards double? If so, what is the advantage to ordering yardage one way over the other?

Thanks!

Single width cloth is approximately 30 inches wide. Double width cloth is approximately 60 inches wide. So, yes, 1 yard DW = 2 yard SW.

Two advantages to using SW fabric-
1. For asymmetric tartans (Hunting Stewart, Old MacMillan, Buchanan, etc.) you can't split DW fabric for a kilt.
2. No join seam in the pleats of the kilt

The major advantage to DW fabric is that it is cheaper (you only need half as much for a kilt). For short custom weaves, though, you'll probably order through Dalgliesh and be limited to SW.

That being said, most mills only offer a particular tartan/color scheme in one or the other. So, you'll more likely choose a specific tartan based on weight, color scheme, price, etc. before getting to SW/DW as a factor.

David

[Spartan Tartan]

Thanks. Exactly what I was looking for. I appreciate the responses.