A Good Kilt Maker......

[Wil]

Wil,


I just went through this process recently. Before I ordered a hand sewn, wool tartan kilt, I already knew that, if I wanted a quality, well made one, it would not be inexpensive; so, I decided that some research was in order.


To start with, I listed the exact specifications for the kilt that I wanted and then I priced it or got quotes for that specific kilt (primarily from the venders on this site but also a few others). [For me the specifications were; 15/16oz wool, Fraser of Lovat modern (Locharron or D.C. Daglish), pleated to Sett, three Buckles, two belt loops and double fringe. (D.C. Daglish does not carry my chosen tartan as stock and charges and additional $160 loom fee to make it so, I went with Locharron).]
I priced or got quotes for this specific kilt and found that the bigger "store type" vendors were the most expensive and that many the individual kilt makers (and I include here Rocky, Steve & Mathew) were more reasonably priced.


After doing that research, I reviewed the postings for the various venders on this site, looking at examples (pictures) of their work, reading reviews and visiting their web sites (I even talked to a couple of acquaintances about their experiences with some of the venders) before I made my decision.


Since it's going to set you back +/- $500, I'd recommend using an individual kilt maker for an heirloom, handmade kilt as described above (you won't find better that the ones here). The kiltmakers on this site are respected, experienced and have many satisfied customers herein. They don't just make kilts, they wear them so they truly know how the kilt should look and feel (and, of course, you will know exactly who made your kilt).


One additional recommendation is to be patient. The kilt maker is a craftsperson making a quality custom product so, allow them the time to do it right. Only fair for a garment that will out last you.
Have fun with this adventure.


PS; I ordered my kilt from Kiltmaker Bonnie Heather Greene; it's in process and I hope to see it soon.

Nile, Thanks for the advise. Of coarse the info you gave me is well needed as my first kilt was one that I called in the info and when they asked questions about pleated, sewing etc..... I said which ever looks the best. But now I have a little more knowledge, I in no way claim to know it all but I am less likely not to say "whatever looks best"now...
I have heard a lot of great things about Bonnie Green and she comes highly recommended.

[JohntheBiker]

Wil,


I just went through this process recently. Before I ordered a hand sewn, wool tartan kilt, I already knew that, if I wanted a quality, well made one, it would not be inexpensive; so, I decided that some research was in order.


To start with, I listed the exact specifications for the kilt that I wanted and then I priced it or got quotes for that specific kilt (primarily from the venders on this site but also a few others). [For me the specifications were; 15/16oz wool, Fraser of Lovat modern (Locharron or D.C. Daglish), pleated to Sett, three Buckles, two belt loops and double fringe. (D.C. Daglish does not carry my chosen tartan as stock and charges and additional $160 loom fee to make it so, I went with Locharron).]
I priced or got quotes for this specific kilt and found that the bigger "store type" vendors were the most expensive and that many the individual kilt makers (and I include here Rocky, Steve & Mathew) were more reasonably priced.


After doing that research, I reviewed the postings for the various venders on this site, looking at examples (pictures) of their work, reading reviews and visiting their web sites (I even talked to a couple of acquaintances about their experiences with some of the venders) before I made my decision.


Since it's going to set you back +/- $500, I'd recommend using an individual kilt maker for an heirloom, handmade kilt as described above (you won't find better that the ones here). The kiltmakers on this site are respected, experienced and have many satisfied customers herein. They don't just make kilts, they wear them so they truly know how the kilt should look and feel (and, of course, you will know exactly who made your kilt).


One additional recommendation is to be patient. The kilt maker is a craftsperson making a quality custom product so, allow them the time to do it right. Only fair for a garment that will out last you.
Have fun with this adventure.


PS; I ordered my kilt from Kiltmaker Bonnie Heather Greene; it's in process and I hope to see it soon.

In addition to Nile's specs, you also want to decide whether you want an 8 yard kilt or something less (4-5).