I'm gonna sew my own kilt within a week (have to prepare the sewing machine, get some more practice in with it, get some fabric and more thread). I will be making a "test kilt" probably using an old sheet or other very cheap fabric just for testing my sewing and such. After I'm confident in my abilities, I will work with the more expensive fabric.

I have questions for anyone willing to answer them, keep in mind that I have researched a lot when it comes to making kilts, but I am wanting to make a "utility kilt" and NOT a traditional kilt. The kilt I want to make has to have cargo pockets (might try to do a Velcro or button system to allow them to be removed whole). It also has to have pleats that will not "catch" on things as I brush by. It will also have to be relatively sturdy as I do a lot of outdoor activities along with a lot of getting in and out of cars and sitting on rough surfaces. It also has to be cool because where I'm at, it can get quite hot (100+ the past few days). I am also a large man who is also on a diet. The waist will be held with Velcro so it can adjust with my reducing waist. The kilt will be worn at the same place as pants and shorts and will have belt loops. For those wondering, my current measurement when my pants sit is 52in. and the length from there to my knee is about 23in.

My questions are:
* What's the best fabric for a utility kilt that is a good mix of function of cost. I don't want to spend more than $50 TOTAL for fabric for this kilt.
* Are there any diagrams or examples I can see online of pleats? I'm unsure of what kind of pleats to use and how much fabric they will need.
* Anyone know how to sew cargo pockets?
* Has anyone here made their own Utility kilt? If so, could you give me some tips and advice and maybe some pictures?

Any tips, advice and such would be appreciated.