Edinburgh: Discover the secrets of the kilt and tartan with a kiltmaker｜United Kingdom

Our private workshop/talk, led by a kilt-making expert, will take you on a journey through the rich history of Highland attire and tartan in Scotland. From the Feileadh-mor (great kilt), featured in Outlander, to contemporary bespoke kilts, we will explore the evolution of these iconic symbols of Scottish heritage.

You will also learn about the different types of tartans and fabrics woven in Scotland, from large tartan mills to independent Harris Tweed weavers. We will delve into the history, culture, and art behind these textiles, giving you a deeper understanding of Scotland’s heritage.

Making a high-quality, custom kilt requires an enormous amount of time, precision, meticulous planning, and hand sewing. Unfortunately, for these reasons, many online stores and businesses opt for cheaper, faster, machine-made kilts, thereby compromising the quality and durability of the final garment. Our expert will explain the challenges faced by kiltmakers and will also mention that kiltmaking has been considered an endangered craft since 2021. We will share with you our commitment to preserving this precious craft and what we, as independent artisans, are doing to achieve this goal.

Finally, your kiltmaker will guide you through the intricate process of making a high-quality kilt, sewn entirely by hand from start to finish. You will learn the main steps involved in making a kilt, including the crucial and complex process of pleating the tartan. You’ll have the opportunity to try your hand at pleating tartan yourself, discovering the endless possibilities and creativity offered by a single tartan!

You will also leave this workshop/talk with a small tartan gift as a keepsake of this wonderful experience!

Join us to explore the enchanting world of Scottish textiles and kilts, where tradition, innovation, and passion come together.