thoughts on these two makers

**Jerry** · 30th March 08, 05:14 AM

I have seen Geoffrey Tailor's kilts in person,even though I do not own one and they are very well made.I would, however, recommend buying from a kiltmaker here in the states, so that you do not run into the problem of high import tariffs. Kathy Lare, Barb Tewksbury, and Matt Newsome can all provide a product that is as good or better than the European kilt makers.

**turpin** · 30th March 08, 07:15 AM

I heartily second that. Many of us on this side of the pond have experienced the unexpected extra cost associated with importing a kilt new from the UK. I have three Tewksbury's and one Newsome and can't say enough about them. I know Riverkilts will chime in here about Kathey Lare. I've met her in person but don't have one of her kilts. however, she did take her training in Scotland.

Chattancat right here on X-Marks is also fast becoming an accomplished traditional kilt maker. I'm working up a review of one of his kilts, and he has other satisfied customers here as well.

**BEEDEE** · 30th March 08, 07:50 AM

My tank is from Houston and I was more than pleased with the finished product and their customer service. I even got a phone call to check on one measurement. But I would confirm the other's caution about buying from the UK. I had to pay about $150 extra in customs and clearance fees.

Cessna152towser got one recently from Houston. My recollection was that he had a problem that was quickly fixed. You might want to PM him for more information.

Brian

**Riverkilt** · 30th March 08, 05:45 PM

Some good advice Copey713

We really need a bit more information. What kind of kilt? Hand sewn etc.

Do beware of those "front" companies whose kilts are sewn by nameless craftsmen for a price.

If you're gonna lay out some big bucks for a quality hand sewn kilt it just makes sense to know the craftsman with the needle in their hand. How'd they learn to sew kilts? Some, like Kathy Lare, go to Keith Kilt School. Some like Barb Tewksbury and Matt Newsome apprentice, others learn by doing and/or from a book. Nice to know when you make your selection of craftsman to do the work.

And, as pointed out, you'll likely save a LOT of money and hassle if you get the kilt actually sewn up here in the U.S. Ordering it from a 'Front' company in the U.S. doesn't necessarily mean it'll be sewn here.

Ask a lot of questions of your finalists. Ask here on the board like you are. And ramble through the X Marks search feature.

If you've searched and read some of the "adventures" the rabble has had you'll know its best to do your research.

Never heard of this guy, Torf the Kiltmaker, but he Googles up as being in Austin, Texas. You might wanna try this number and see if it works. Doesn't seem to be a website.

Louis Torfason at 1-512-327-2869 is a professional kilt-maker and will tell you everything you need to know.

Maybe the Texas rabble know more?

Meeting and talking directly to your kiltmaker and letting them measure you is the very best way to go.

Ron

**Hamish** · 31st March 08, 06:14 AM

Originally Posted by copey713

I am considering a kilt from
Houston kiltmakers
Geoffrey Tailor
Twentyfirst Century Kilts

any experience? any differences between the three?

The advice you have been given is good and true, and I can add very little to what has been said. "21st Century Kilts" is run by Howie Nicholsby, the son of Geoffrey, and comes under the Geoffrey (Tailor) umberella. Howie's contemporary kilts are machine stitched, whereas Geoffrey's traditional kilts are hand sewn. There is currently an excellent video piece (one of several) featuring Howie talking about Geoffrey (Tailor) kilts at "Scotland on TV" [Go to http://www.scotlandontv.tv/ click on 'Experience', point to 'kilts' and select 'About'] ........................... Unfortunately, I am biased here as I have no kilts from Houstons, although I understand they have a good reputation, but I have 27 assorted kilts from Geoffrey (Tailor)/21st Century Kilts!! ......................... What others have said about ordering from a tailoring kiltmaker in the USA is probably good advice bearing in mind importation and shipping costs - but I would still recommend having a true Scottish tailor build you a kilt, at some point in your life - but, as I say, I am biased! ......................... Take care, Ham.

**beloitpiper** · 31st March 08, 09:11 AM

Originally Posted by JerseyLawyer

No, I don't wear a kilt to court, but that's because, well, I work for the government, and it would be frowned on, I suspect.

CessnaTower wore his kilt to court...I think that's where he worked...

But then again, he lives in Scotland.

**Riverkilt** · 31st March 08, 09:28 AM

I've worn a Utilikilt to court at our local Magistrate Court...but it was a last minute call in and the judge knows me. When doing jury duty in the same court elected to wear pants so as not to be a distraction to the proceedings.

Ron

**Howard Clark** · 31st March 08, 10:10 AM

I'll second the recommendations for American kilt makers. I have Three of Matt's box pleats, and am well pleased with all of them. I also got an 8 yard from Barb Tewksbury, and could not be any happier with it. The cloth is the same, and the weak dollar doesn't hurt quite so badly on only materials, as materials and labour both.