Frequently asked questions.
Can I make a hand stitched kilt with no sewing experience?
Yes absolutely! If you are willing to learn and follow my instructions you can make a great first kilt and start your journey into the kilt making world. Because I have over 12 years of teaching my craft, my teaching methods are easy for you to follow. I also have a “Stitch the Basics” course for you to practice the stitches.
How is online kilt making run?
It is run on a 12 week private Facebook group, with weekly homework videos for you to watch and sew around your own time, in the comfort of your own home. We do weekly zoom chats to talk, teach, ask questions and accountability. You do have the videos for longer, so if you do fall behind, no problem!
Is there a qualification for your course.
No, I do not do a qualification , but I do certificates when you are at the stage to become a competent kilt maker. I am a qualified SQA assessor , so therefore qualified to assess your kilts to the highest standard.
How much does it cost to learn kilt making?
The cost to learn kilt making varies depending on the training you choose. It can cost over £12,000 , the same as a University or College course. When you invest in learning “how to make a traditional, hand stitched, bespoke kilt”, you aren’t just picking up a new hobby - you’re actually learning a trade. Think of it as an education in craftsmanship. My first course start at £2200 plus materials. Please do your research and reach out for more info.
How much does a kilt cost?
This depends on your budget and where you buy from. A hand stitched bespoke kilt can start around £750 and can go up to thousands, depending on your tartan choice.
My kilts start at £950 due to the work, time and expertise spent on your luxury dream kilt.
How long does a kilt take to make?
A qualified bespoke kilt maker will take a week plus to make your kilt. A shop kilt maker can be expected to make a kilt in a day.
So it totally depends on what type of kilt you are making, what your skills are and how adapt you are to learning. I run 12 day in-person kilt making classes to make a full heritage kilt. So 60 hours plus homework. My 12 week online course is a great option to learn in the comfort of your own home. My kilts take me around 30-40 hours …after 20 years of kilt making!
How do I find my tartan?
You may have gone down the route of looking at your ancestors, so using these names along with your own surnames is where you begin. You may not have a tartan associated with your name, so look at district tartans, clan tartans and Irish tartans - which actually go by district rather than surname.
Can I wear tartan if I’m not Scottish?
Yes absolutely! There are many tartans available with no surname connection. The tartan library is growing all the time, and you can even design your very own one!
Where is the best place to learn kilt making?
Paula Duncan Bespoke Kilt Making has the best training with my knowledge of dressmaking and kilt making together, it takes the kilt training to the next level.
It also depends on how good you want to be! Learning the art of kilt making with myself, means you are going to get a thorough training with the best results. You will learn the kilt making secrets to making an exquisite hand stitched, tailored, heritage kilt.
How long does it take to become a good kilt maker?
It is said around 10 kilts, but I think a lot more. I have been teaching for over 12 years and I personally think it takes your years to master the art of kilt making. You only get better and better with each kilt you make. Learning with me will take you on a kilt journey to understand the science behind a great kilt.
What my student's say ...
-
I can't imagine anyone else being able to explain techniques more comprehensively and with such style! Helpful, encouraging, patient, practical and funny!
Susan Hamilton - Kiltmaker - St Andrews
-
Paula's courses are exceptional. She takes care to teach you why, not just how. Kilt making is definitely addictive!
Jill Beer - Student starting a business - Canada