I think the method you describe would allow too much movement during the pressing process. The point (obviously) is to nail down the pleats in perfect alignment so that you can move the kilt around on your pressing board and not have to fuss with it too much before applying the iron each time. Spend time during the basting process and your pressing will go faster. Skimp during basting and your pressing will go slowly. . . your choice of where to spend the time, but trying to nudge a pleat into alignment while the rest of the kilt's weight is hanging off the board and you are holding a hot iron in one hand is not a recipe for success.