MacCallum tartan flashes on the bias

**Jon Lilley** · 28th June 10, 12:35 PM

Hey there, Everyone!,

I got busy and tried my hand at a pair of tartan flashes and they turned out pretty well. I didn't have all the proper materials, but they turned out well in spite of the shortcomings.

I'm sorry the colors aren't true in this foto, but the MacCallum is a Blackwatch cousin with a light blue over check. The hose are US Coast Guard bluish gray, but here they look almost the same. I know to use better lighting for my next pictures.

I think they took about an hour from start to finish, but it actually took a lot longer hunting for the material. I had an old bag cover that volunteered for the job. The fabric was so old that I was afraid it'd fall apart so I used a lot of glue on the back. I didn't have any iron-on ribbon so I used some old Mod Podge. Remember that stuff? Well, it still works! I just painted a thin strip down the back and along the swallow tail to stop any fraying. And presto, new tartan flashes!

The garter/elastic parts are just stapled together and covered with a thin stip of Duct-tape to prevent snagging. I could've spent a lot more time on them, but don't really think I'll be using them much. If I do, I'll just put more time into them and I'm golden.

I'm very pleased with the size and general appearance so I may try a different pair if I can find a match for my MacLeod. Thanks to Barb T. and X Marks for the instructions! I couldn't be happier with the results.

Mòran, mòran taing!,

Jon

**Mael Coluim** · 28th June 10, 05:14 PM

Nicely done, cousin!

**BoldHighlander** · 28th June 10, 06:41 PM

Very nice!

**longhuntr74** · 28th June 10, 07:03 PM

They look grand! I like the bias cut. I think I'll have to do that when I make my next set.

**ChattanCat** · 29th June 10, 04:45 AM

I do like the look of the bias cut flashes. They use up quite a lot of material though but I think it is worth it and you did a great job.
Congrats,

**Chas** · 29th June 10, 09:03 AM

Makes a pleasant change to see flashes cut on the bias - well done.

Regards

Chas

**Jon Lilley** · 20th July 10, 02:09 PM

Yes, Chattancat! You're absolutely correct! They gobbled up quite a bit of material, but it was old and I wasn't sure if it'd work. And, it was well worth the try! They're a big switch from the red flashes all the bands use. Fortunately, people are getting the idea and some are making the switch.

Slàinte,

Jon