N. Batley tartan fabric?

**David Thorpe** · 14th February 12, 08:37 AM

I saw a very nice-looking tartan evidently woven only by N. Batley. Several Googled sources indicate that the mill went out of business. Do any of you kilt makers have experience with 16 oz. wool from that mill? Is it worsted? Double-wide? Good quality?

**ForresterModern** · 14th February 12, 09:57 AM

Not a kiltmaker, although I do own a Batley tartan kilt and have had a chance to directly compare their tartans with those of other vendors by side by side comparison of their sample books. My Batley made 13 oz Ancient MacDonald tartan has nice colors and a sturdy feel for its weight, although the fabric seems ever so slightly more coarse on its finish than the best Scottish weavers (Lochcarron, House of Edgar, Strathmore, and Dalgleish) but similar in feel to HoE Nevis range and Marton Mills fabrics. Prices are generally lower, and the color palette seems to be more subdued in general compared to other weavers. Batley did have a rough spell about a year ago which was discussed on the forum here (you might try the search function) but if I remember they came out with a reorganization of sorts and reorientation of their usiness model, but that it still included keeping the tartan manufacturing open. Have not heard anything since, but still see their tartans on most available tartans lists so assume they are still manufacturing.

Others will chime in who are closer to the mill and its current status.

**RockyR** · 14th February 12, 10:51 AM

If you would like to purchase a kilt or cloth from Batleys fabric, we're happy to provide it. We order from them regularly.

**Remy** · 14th February 12, 11:18 AM

I own a Batley kilt from Rocky and I'm very happy with it. Their version of Maple Leaf is quite different from other mills. The colors sem darker and more subdued. I think it's beautiful.

**Dale Seago** · 14th February 12, 11:38 AM

Originally Posted by Remy

I own a Batley kilt from Rocky and I'm very happy with it. Their version of Maple Leaf is quite different from other mills. The colors sem darker and more subdued. I think it's beautiful.

I also have one from Rocky in Batley's Maple Leaf. Love it!!