Quote Originally Posted by bricekolob View Post
What should I look for to see if it was made properly?
Now, there's a question. I have to laugh. I guess the answer to that is to read through this forum for about 3 months, and you'll KNOW.

"properly"...is a tough thing to state. If t he kilt is supposed to be a band kilt, then it will be constructed in the same manner as the rest of the bands kilts...narrow pleats and lots of them, pleated to sett/stripe to match the other members kilts, three buckles in the same color as the other band members kilts, a well sewn-in liner, hair canvas, straps, etc.

But to explain all that in one post would take volumes. Honestly to REALLY know, you'd have to read Barb's book. The best way to get to understand what makes a really fine traditional kilt is to hold one and look at it very closely, concentrating on the details of how the waistband, pleats, and so on are constructed.

If the kilt is to be worn in different situation, then it might be that all those flippin' details aren't necessary. If you want a traditional-looking kilt that's well-made, and constructed mostly out of polyester-viscose, buy a USA-Kilts semi-traditional model and be happy. If you want even MORE pleats then ask Rocky to throw another yard worth of material into the semi-trad and you'll get 4-8 more pleats, and the pleats will be narrower.

Understand that not ALL tartans are available in polyester-viscose.. The company that weaves the stuff is Marton Mills. I would check availablility before you proceed too far down this road.