Kilt assessments and most repairs and adjustments can be completed in less than a working week. Other services usually take longer:

1-2 weeks: Hand-wash Kilt | Replace Canvas | Lengthen Kilt | Apron Alterations

2-3 weeks: Shorten Kilt | Complete Kilt Remake

Add to that (1) queue time, and (2) inbound/return shipping time. These cannot be estimated because they vary considerably. Queue time can be tracked on the WORKFLOW facility provided on the homepage. Inbound/Return shipping times will depend on your choice of carrier and the service selected.

Clients are advised to allow ample time for their kilt to be altered.

Many kilt alterations need a new set of measurements to work to. Measurements for kilts aren't the same as for most other clothing and they need to be carefully taken. Àrd-Tìreach Kilt Alterations has produced a thorough guide to measuring for a kilt.

We also have a handy form to make it easy to submit your new measurements. It's done as a no-cost product that you add to your order so that it can be put in the WORKFLOW queue right away.

A kilt assessment is a thorough review of the condition and construction of your kilt.

1. When received, your kilt is measured and its dimensions compared to the measurements provided by you if any alterations are being considered.

2. Next, the kilt lining is removed and the following is assessed:

• all stitching in the fell, fringe, apron turnovers and top band

• buckles and chapes (buckle tabs) for condition, stitching, attachment to canvas and strength

• kilt straps for condition of leather, wear and attachment to canvas

• kilt lining for wear and condition of stitching

• pleat steeking for presence and competence

• canvas for integrity, strength, position and condition of pad stitching

• kilt cloth for damage, fading and dirt/stains

• if applicable, whether there is enough cloth left in the aprons and/or fell seam allowances to do the alterations being considered

3. A detailed condition assessment and quote for the suggested repairs &/or alterations is then provided by e-mail.

4. The kilt is held pending a response from you, and either returned by prepaid shipping or added to the WORKFLOW queue.

Kilting cloth is one hard-wearing fabric. But, it's still just wool, and wool needs some simple care to last a lifetime despite what some people say. Àrd-Tìreach Kilt Alterations has produced a comprehensive guide to caring for your kilt long-term. In it, you'll find helpful maintenance tips and what to do if mildew or clothes moths attack the cloth.

Yes. In almost every case, you can shorten a kilt. There are several ways to do this. Àrd-Tìreach Kilt Alterations offers two ways: one reversible, the other permanent.

The reversible way is to lower the kilt buckles and strap hole by the required amount so that the kilt sits higher on the hips -- thus raising the selvedge and shortening the kilt at the knee. This method adds to the rise of the kilt and has its limits.

The permanent way is to cut the top of the cloth off by the required amount and then relocate the canvas, buckles, strap hole and, if need be, lengthen the fell stitching. Once the cloth is cut, there is no going back.

Losing a lot of weight is usually a good thing, so congratulations are likely in order. Before deciding to buy a new kilt, have the kilt you now own assessed for potential alteration. Even a complete kilt remake is less expensive than a new kilt.

1. Order a kilt assessment and use our no-cost measurement form to send us your new

measurements.

2. Upload pictures of your kilt as presently worn (link is on the order confirmation e-mail).

3. Ship your kilt to us at the address on your receipt (your order includes prepaid return shipping)

We’ll assess what alterations are needed and send you a detailed quote to consider. The kilt assessment fee will be refunded to you if you go ahead with alterations.

Àrd-Tìreach Kilt Alterations specializes in repairing and altering kilts rather than making bespoke kilts. Without the backlog of bespoke kilts to make, you enjoy faster turn-around times.

Occasionally, a kilt made up from the owner's cloth can be commissioned, but it will go to the end of the queue and may take some time before it is finished.

No, we don't. Though we know a of number of excellent individuals and firms, we leave it to you to decide from whom to order a kilt.

When choosing a bespoke kiltmaker, remember:

• The lowest price may get you the least satisfaction. Expect to pay $925 - $1,150, (plus taxes and shipping), for a regular knife-pleated 8-yard kilt made with good quality worsted wool kilting cloth, by experienced hands offering attentive customer service. A fancier affair with bespoke woven cloth, etc., can easily cost in the range of $2,000 - $2,700, and sometimes more. But, a good kilt can easily last a lifetime; it's not fast fashion.
  

• First-rate, skilled kiltmakers can be found throughout North America, Scotland and elsewhere. Some have an internet presence and can easily be found. Others are local craftspeople who serve their communities and neighbours and can only be found by asking local pipe bands, Scottish societies, or Scottish country dancing groups.
  

• Expect to wait two to six months before receiving your kilt. Some kiltmakers are even backed up by more than a year. So order way ahead of time.
  

• But also expect the kilt to fit properly -- that is to say, to the measurements provided -- and that it be corrected if workmanship is defective.

What is worn under a kilt has fascinated people for generations. While there are cherished practices rooted in regimental tradition that are still rigorously observed by many, the choice of what to wear (or not) under a kilt is a personal decision.

Some things to consider:

• Who you might accidentally flash – and whether that’s a good, bad or really bad thing. **

• The weather – an added layer never hurts on a cold, blustery day.

• Comfort – if you find wool a bit itchy, why suffer?

• Hygiene – everyone's constitution is different; dress accordingly.

If you’re going to don drawers, a good choice is black athletic briefs that are moisture-wicking, breathable, thin and form-fitting.

Some formal events, many family-oriented events, and participating in highland games or Scottish country dancing are all good occasions for a more reserved turnout.

** In April 1997, the Black Watch performed various duties during the many televised ceremonies relating to handing Hong Kong over to Chinese rule. At one point, it being a blustery day, one soldier's kilt was blown high by the wind, giving the world a glimpse of a truly fine British backside. The soldier got thousands of admiring e-mails, three marriage proposals . . . and a fine from his superior officer for having kilt hose of uneven height.