Who actually OWNS a Scottish hand-sewn?

**Jimmy Carbomb** · 9th October 04, 08:24 AM

More than anything, this is a "bump" to keep this topic near the top... as a reminder to Casey.

Casey, after wearing it this weekend, post a thought on the differences that you see and feel... if any.

Since you're experiencing the "tank" for the first time, it will be infinitely more insightful to the guys.

The first thing I remember when I wore my "tank" for the first time, was the INCREDIBLE swish and sway of the pleats. It also AMAZED me how tight the pleats were, how uniformly they laid, and how easily they moved right back into place!

**Blu (Ontario)** · 10th October 04, 05:51 AM

Originally Posted by Jimmy Carbomb

... The first thing I remember when I wore my "tank" for the first time, was the INCREDIBLE swish and sway of the pleats. It also AMAZED me how tight the pleats were, how uniformly they laid, and how easily they moved right back into place!

In a couple of previous posts, I briefly touched on this subject but I guess I might as well ask directly while the topic is open. This has to do with the physical surface characteristics of worsted wool as compared to engineered fabrics. More specifically... my theory is that it is the bristley surface fibers on worsted wool that allow the layers to slide past one another with little friction while the kilt is in motion. Those very fibers that make wool unwearable by some, actually allow that wonderful "swish"! Any thoughts or opinions?? Is this issue discussed in any conversations with other society members?

**Casey** · 11th October 04, 04:20 PM

I have five other kilts and there is nothing to compare to this one. "Protected" is a word that comes to mind. With some of my lighter casual kilts there is a sense of daring, **** to the wind, but not with the tank.

I only have one complaint: difficult to get all the pleats in the right place when getting into the car.

Casey

**Jimmy Carbomb** · 11th October 04, 04:38 PM

Originally Posted by Blu (Ontario)

This has to do with the physical surface characteristics of worsted wool as compared to engineered fabrics.

I don't think that I could be coerced into buying a worsted wool kilt really. I prefer the quality of a tight and heavy weave. The "tank" that I have is lined properly, and the wool is so tight that it not only does not itch, but the wind just withers in fear at the sight of it!

I have a few "casuals" and "formals" that are synthetic fabrics, and have actually found that as long as the pleats are sewn deep... with the proper tapering... and the right "aiming" at the taper so that they are manufactured straight in the hang... they are just as swooshy and swingy as the "tanks".

That third point of having a kilt made with the right angling on the taper is RARE to find. The certified and trained kiltmakers know how to do it, and it's truly worth their expertise in the pricing. It can ONLY be achieved with hand-sewing and education.

I am sure that the fabric WILL make a difference in any other kilt though... especially casuals.

**Mychael Sporrano** · 26th October 04, 06:08 AM

Originally Posted by Jimmy Carbomb

I don't think that I could be coerced into buying a worsted wool kilt really. I prefer the quality of a tight and heavy weave.

Now I am confused! Aren't all traditional kilts made from wool that has been worsted?

From britannica.com: "Wool yarn made of long-staple fibres that have been combed to remove undesirable short fibres and make them lie parallel. In the spinning operation, which imparts the necessary twist to hold the fibres together, worsted yarns are more tightly twisted than are the bulkier woolen yarns."

Mychael

Mychael

**Colin** · 7th March 06, 11:17 AM

I can add myself to this list now. I own an 8 yard 16 oz Ancient Watson handsewn.

**GlassMan** · 7th March 06, 11:49 AM

Wow, I missed this thread entirely but I'm glad to see it's now in the new postings.

I've got a Hector Russell that was made in Scotland, 8 yarder in Cunningham tartan. Looks great, feels better. It's always a joy to wear.

I now have 2 Melville Kilts made in Scotland that are also a joy to wear and always look good on me.

Just recently I received my premier kilt in 16 oz Blue MacKay from Rocky over at USA Kilts and I have to say that for fit and quality of construction I'll rank it right up there with my Scottish kilts any day of the week. It fits me just as well and looks just as good as my Hector Russell.

I can't wait for my next kilt from Rocky and another tailored kilt from Melville Kilts to arrive!

Oh, I've been getting way too many kilts lately for the safety of my bank account.

**Southern Breeze** · 7th March 06, 12:09 PM

I missed it too. There is nothing that can compare to a handsewn traditional kilt,nothing.
Here's what I have:

Hecter Russel-
2 Blackwatch Tartan
1 Bruce Tartan

Geoffrey Tailor-
St. Andrews Tartan
Pride of Scotland Tartan

Unknown Maker-
Grand Lodge of Scotland
Cameron of Erracht

All these were found at estate sales at an obscenely low price.

**clancelt** · 7th March 06, 12:25 PM

9 yard 16oz Keith Modern, 8 yard 13oz MacIntyre hunting, and 13oz 8 yard Gunn Modern.

**Riverkilt** · 7th March 06, 12:47 PM

So here's a question. How about Kathy Lare in Albuquerque. She was trained at the Keith School in Scotland and goes back for more training, but does her sewing here in the U.S. Here credentials are on her website www.kathyskilts.com

Do Scottish trained hand sewers count?

If so she's done an 18 ounce Strome for me, an 11oz, and the X Marks and is sewing a 4th right now.

Ron