Well, when I was in junior high, all the guys had to learn how to sew. Didn't like it at the time, but now I'm grateful.

I've done mostly costumes with my sewing, but the ones I made when I worked at the Renaissance Festival were well constructed.

I did make my wife a fancy dress when she was expecting our first and we couldn't find anything suitable for the company dinner-dance.

So, I did have a bit of experience in sewing before I tried making my first kilt. It came out well, but I never really finished it. And now, I need to take it in about 6 inches before I can wear it.