How to make a kilt from fabric?

Kilt is a traditional pleated garment that is famous in every part of the world. Making a kilt is not very challenging because these days people want to wear the kilts with different styles and innovations so that they can look unique. There was a time when experienced makers were needed to make a kilt. Now you can make this heritage dress with your own skills and interest easily. All you have to do is to be patient and only then you will be able to make this manly garment in the best possible manner. Here in this article, I will share with you simple and easy way and after that, you don’t need to ask how to make a kilt.

1.  Tartan selection and making the measurements:

In the first step, you have to look for the best material to make a kilt. There are lots of tartans available in the market that represent different clans. Once you have selected the specific tartan pattern for your kilt then it is the time to take the measurements. Using a tape you have to measure the distance around both of your hips, waist, and also the distance from your knee to the waist.

2.  Making pleats in the kilt:

Adding pleats in the kilt is one of the critical steps in kilt-making. You have to double the fabric to make the pleats that should be approximately around 8 inches and its exposed part has to be around 5/8 to 1 inch.  With different tartan patterns, the width of the pleats may vary. You can do the markings with a piece of cardboard for precise measurements. Divide the fabric into three sections so that making the pleats becomes easy. Now repeat the same process to complete the next set of pleats in the kilt.

3.  Ironing the pleats in the kilt:

Once the pleats are made, now you have to iron the pleats so that they remain in place. It will give you the idea that whether your pleats are made perfectly or not. Make sure you iron the kilt in the direction of pleats. After ironing it’s time to pin the pleats for stitching. Two pains will be enough for each pleat. In this way, the stitching process will become easy.

4.  Stitching down the pleats:

In this step, you have to sew the pleats using a sewing machine. Straight stitch along the entire width of pleated fabric will give fine stitching. You have to remove 1 pin every time you sew 1 inch from the upper part. You have to stitch only 4 inches of the fabric and do not sew the entire area of each pleat. Now your kilt is stitched in the most professional manner.

5.  Trim and fasten the kilt:

When your kilt is stitched then it is the time to trim the excess fabric from the top area of every pleat so make your kilt perfect. You have to start the trimming method from the hip line towards the waist. Avoid cutting the excess material from the first and the last pleat of your kilt. 

6.  Adding waistband and finishing touches:

When trimming is done, you have to fasten the kilt and for that, the addition of buckles and straps will make your kilt appealing. You need to add the waistband, and for that 5 inches of the matching material in width will be enough, and length has to be about the top edge of the kilt. Now stitch this waistband and add finishing touches to your kilt. Finally, your kilt is ready for wearing.