I have the book!

**mull** · 28th January 10, 06:24 AM

I was able to get my hands on a copy of The Art of the Kilt yesteday and I have 6 yards of a fashion type tartan waiting. However, at the end of my first read of the book, I more unsure of my ability to make a kilt than when I started.

It is no fault of the book, but having the directions in front of me, makes me more aware of how much there is to be done, and done right, to turn out a nice final product. I have no sewing experience to draw on so this is a big first project. Add in the fact that I find written directions hard to follow, and it is a little daunting.

I will start at it soon, working slowly, and reading the directions at each step repeatedly until I understand it all. The layout parts seem pretty staight forward, it's the stiching directions and structure that seems so complex.

I am sure I will be back with questions and hopefully pictures of completed kilt.

Joe

**HeathBar** · 28th January 10, 07:44 AM

That is why many here will tell you to start off with inexpensive material. As far as the stitches, I'd bet that a search on google or youtube would produce tutorials on the subject. I think I read the book four times before I laid a single stitch. I like that the book lays flat and you can have it open while you are working. Good luck!

**mull** · 28th January 10, 08:23 AM

I didn't think about the book laying open, but that will be a great help as I try to match the work to the pictures in the book.

The material I have is from Dever Fabrics and was about $14.00 a yard for double width, so I do not have too much invested in fabric. Even if it turns out all wrong the lessons learned should worth more than the material.

If I count the cost against the hours I anticipate working on the kilt, it will end up being only penny's per hour; cheap entertainment.

Joe

**Dixiecat** · 28th January 10, 08:40 AM

Add in the fact that I find written directions hard to follow

The book is awesome and second to none in the art of kiltmaking. However, I also found it daunting and me a long-time sew-er and working in the sewing industry!

If I was asked if there was anything I didn't like about THE book, it would be, 1) not enough photos (can't get enough pictures of kilts...) and 2) needed bullet point summaries.

Anyway, I'm not complaining, especially since I've made two kilts from it and am starting number 3!

**ali8780** · 28th January 10, 09:06 AM

Good luck to you Joe, I would imagine it would be intimidating for someone who has never sewn before. Luckily, you have all of these wonderful people to help you!

**Highlander31** · 28th January 10, 10:30 AM

Good luck, Joe. I sympathize, my sewing experience is limited to replacing buttons and fixing small rips in seams. Look forward to seeing the photos of the kilt when it's done.

**ChattanCat** · 29th January 10, 05:42 PM

Yes, do keep us informed, pictures too. I have enjoyed the kilt making experience. The first kilt may take 40 labor hours and a month or two. Keep at it, ask questions, everyone here will be happy to offer encouragement and help.

I started sewing on my first kilt, and now am working on kilt #35. You can do it!

Cheers and happy kilting,

**Kiltboy** · 29th January 10, 07:11 PM

Joe, I had the same concerns when I started my first kilt last month. I'm using Barb's book step by step. (I'm ready to press, tomorrow...) My sewing skills were limited to buttons and fixing a ripped hem or seam. I just Googled what I wanted to know, including some specific stitches and some terms. It takes time, take breaks and read and consult this website as you go. I have found plenty of DIY threads that answer most all of my questions. Many with pictures. Plus feel free to ask any question.

Oh, one last tip. If you already own a completed kilt, refer to it. I found my USA Kilt was a wonderful model. When I wasn't sure how the completed step fit into the construction, I would examine my own kilt(s). The answers were right in front of me.

Welcome to the addiction

**jhockin** · 29th January 10, 07:23 PM

I too found the following the book a challange, but whenever I came here, to this forum, to ask questions, I got very good, prompt help & advice! When you have questions, first do a search, here, as the question(s) may already have been asked & answered.

**Eleazar** · 29th January 10, 08:12 PM

That's an awesome book.

Her directions clear and concise. Just take your time and get some scrap to practice with. The great thing about sewing is that stitches can always be taken out and re-done.

You might also want to get the Box Pleated Kilt addendum that is offered on this site as a down loadable PDF. Get it here

You might also want to look at the excellent X-Kilt instructions for some added insight. Get it here

For me, the more I read the more it all made sense.