Making a kilt

Traditional and contemporary kilts sewn to order

Paul Henry Kilts

I’m often asked what goes into making a kilt , here are a series of photographs showing the basic stages in building a traditional hand sewn kilt.

From the 4 yards of double width 16oz tartan with the measure and worksheet, the process continues with marking up the apron, and working out the pleating. Each pleat is carefully handsewn matching up the pattern as carefully as possible. When all the pleats are sewn the interior of the pleats are cut out and then covered with a hair canvas with padding stitches to consolidate the back of the kilt. The waistband is then attached, usually by machine stitching for strength, buckles and leather straps are sewn on, and belt lops added. A cotton lining is added over the top of the canvas hiding all the interior stitching. Small extra areas of invisible stitches are used for hems and turn ups The pleats are basted to enable accurate steam pressing,the kilt is then rolled and ready for despatch.

The process generally takes about 25 hours, but usually the sewing takes place in many 2 or 3 hour sessions.

These photos only show key stages,but I am very happy to discuss more details of kiltmaking.