This week’s #craftfocus is kilt making.
The kilt started off as a blanket-like garment that was folded at the back, held at the waist with a belt with the remainder of the cloth falling back or wrapped around the shoulders /over the head for protection.
Tartan was originally regional and recognisable by the colours derived from local plants that were used to dye it with.
Kilts are associated with Scottish Highland dancing, with Scottish pipe bands, with the military and is the traditional dress for weddings and other celebrations. The kilt is an icon of Scottish culture and heritage.
Techniques include:
Measuring the customer and calculating the bespoke pleat width, front and back apron size and shape
Pleating the cloth/tartan either to the stripe or sett
Creating a pleat design, either knife, box, military roll or Kinguissie form
Transferring measurements to cloth
Hand sewing pleats (using invisible stitching) a fringe on the front apron
Cutting the pleats to reduce bulk
Reinforcing the pleats with canvas
Calculating the placement of the buckles and straps
Sewing belt/sporran loops and making chapes (fabric pieces that hold the buckle onto the cloth)
Lining part of the inside with cotton
A variety of hand sewing stitches are used for the different processes
Images: Edinburgh Kiltmakers Academy @edinburghkiltmakersacademy and Auld Alliance Kiltmakers @a.kiltmakers.journey
#heritagecrafts #craftfocus #kiltmaking