I'm finally getting around to introducing myself. My name is Tom and I'm in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area of Minnesota.

I came across your site while doing internet searches on kilt wearing for a project I'm doing. Lots of great information on here.

My kilt wearing experience is limited - very much limited. I was a performer at our local Ren Faire for a few years, and switched to a great kilt my second year. Never went back to tights. Kept me warmer when the weather was colder, cooler when the weather was warmer. (But then all of you already know that )

I actually made an 8 yd kilt about 11 years ago, but never finished it. Didn't get the waist measurements right either. The fabric I purchased is the Black Stewart tartan, and I pleated it to stripe. (I like the military pleating - I think it looks quite sharp). Fast forward to now, and not only was I off with my waist measurement, but I've lost weight. I need to redo my kilt. First off is taking it in (about 7 inches worth on the front apron). Once I'm finished taking it in, all that's left is the lining, and getting good quality straps and buckles.

I'm trying to get this finished in time for a scout meeting (November 2005) so I should be able to do so. I'm the cubmaster of a scout group (grades 1 to 5), and I have been wearing something appropriate to the monthly theme at our pack meetings. Next November is "My Family Tree". Though I have no claim to either Irish or Scottish background, I thought the kilt would be appropriate to wear, especially since it is easily recognized as belonging to a "family tree".

At the meeting, I'm planning to wear the kilt with my scout shirt (tan) and the knee length scout socks (olive green with red top). The color combination with the kilt looks really sharp.

I'm enjoying everyone's posts and information. Thanks for letting me join.

Tom