BRENDA THOMSON
HIGHLAND KILT MAKER
In modern times, Highland dancing has provided one of the most obvious reasons for wearing kilts and tartans. In competitions, demonstrations or at social events, the wearing of Highland attire has become an essential element of traditional Scottish dancing, whether it is Highland dancing or Scottish country dancing.
Kilts for young children or women who are involved in dancing can be made from a small amount of tartan fabric and are called ‘kilties’ because they are not made in the traditional manner of a proper kilt. Kilties are less expensive to produce because they are less involved and do not have the internal canvas or lining which gives the proper kilt its structure.
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For children under the age of 5, a metre of fabric will make a very suitable 'Kiltie'. Straps can be attached which have buttonholes that are spaced along the strap to allow for growth.
When young dancers approach the age of 9 or 10, it is time to look at a proper kilt custom fitted to their body. In order to maximize your kilt investment dollar, I provide ample hems and growth pleats in these kilts to allow for continued growth throughout the teenage years.
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DANCER KILTS
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Have someone measure you. It is impossible to do accurate measurements on yourself.
While you are being measured, stand up straight, with your head up and looking straight ahead of you. Your feet should be together and you should stand naturally, neither stretching upwards or slouching.
Do NOT try to suck in your stomach. The fit should fit you perfectly as you normally are, and standing holding your stomach in is not the norm.
While the measurements are being taken, you should wear clothing that is not bulky, which can add an inch or more to the measurements!
Write down each measurement as you take it - do not try to remember two or three at a time. And measuring a second time is a very good precaution to take to ensure accuracy.
Whatever measurement unit you use, be consistent. If you use inches then state all of the measurements in inches. The same is true if you use centimeters. Stick with one or the other.
Cloth tape measures are the best to use as they conform best to the body contours and give a more accurate reading.
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Dancer Kilt Measurement
