Thank you so much for these suggestions. I have never made a kilt before but I do have some tailoring experience. I'm used to "basting the hell" out the garments I've made, and it's always proven to be well worth the small amount of effort. I'm not making this kilt to win a prize or start a new career. I just want to look presentable at my son's wedding. To that end I'll just use whatever techniques give me the best results I'm capable of.