Paul Henry Kilts
Traditional and Contemporary kilts sewn to order
A Plaid is essentially a large piece of cloth, originally it was the name given to a forerunner of the kilt, a blanket or cloak which in reality could be worn in many ways, and also utilised as a sleeping wrap.
The feileadh mòr - the large blanket was probably about 3.5 - 4.5 yards long, but comprised of 2 narrow widths of cloth joined to make a single piece about 54" wide, but of course there was a lot of variation in sizes, cloth was expensive and expected to last a very long time.Worn wrappt around the waist loosely pleated and the extra provided a hood as well. Over time this "kilt" was adapted and only used the narrower piece of cloth - one of narrow widths and worn around the waist, sewn and pleated rather than gathered, the extra cloth then became a little more decorative in nature, but was still used for special events. The full story as we think we know it is rather more involved...
I mainly make two different types, which can work well in many different situations, but remember wearing a plaid is not for the shy and retiring!
Prices are dependant of the size of tartan, and whether fringing, purling, or plaiting is requested, very happy to quote
Purling is generally done with two groups of thread resulting in a round rope like effect, Plaiting is generally worked on three groups leading to a flat braid .
Purling from £25/50cm. fine purling or plaiting £35/50 cm
A Day or Laird's plaid - from 3 - 4 yards long and either single or double width, usually purled or plaited on the narrow ends, the long edges use the cloth selvedge. Usually worn folded lengthwise a few times and over the shoulder without any fixing, and very useful as an additional wrap or blanket
A fly plaid - from 36" square with fringes all around to a larger fly of about 50" square again with fringes. Both usually worn on the diagonal attached to the jacket shoulder with a pin. A purled edge can be added for added grandeur
There is a lot of mystery about the plaid, infact even the pronounciation varies not just across the world but even in Scotland, originally meaning a blanket now often seems to have taken on the design or variety of tartan as well. It can be a lovely extra item of traditional dress,as well as a functional item to keep warm.
Pipers still wear an extravagant version, with lots of extra pleating and even more cloth, but best to leave that to Ceremonial Dress.
