Kilt College

 

Passing down kiltmaking traditions that have evolved over generations. Learning to make the kilt could be a career choice or simply, a creative ambition.

 

What greater satisfaction could you have than watching a friend or family member looking resplendent in a kilt that you have handmade for them?

 

Better still, how inspiring would it be to handcraft your own kilt to wear yourself?

 

Here at the Askival of Strathearn Studio, we run courses imparting traditional Scottish kiltmaking techniques. Our enthusiasm and excitement for every stage of the kilt creation process are highly infectious, which is why our workshops are so popular.

 

Demonstrations:

Visitors and groups up to 12 people are welcome by arrangement to visit the studio and discover the art of kilt making. We shall talk about the history of the kilt and the Highland attire, the tartans, and the construction of the kilt. There will be kilts in construction and finished to view.

 

Workshops:

Classes are open to all ages and abilities.

 

2-day taster workshop: A taster course to learn about kilt construction and produce a sampler demonstrating the main stitches and techniques used in the construction of the traditional kilt. The day runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a short break for lunch. You have an opportunity to make a tartan sash in your tartan which invloves some of the kilt stitching and techniques.

 

Cost: £100 for both days includes light refreshments and lunch. There is additional cost of £15 on the day for essential materials and £20 for the sash cloth.

 

To make your full kilt you will need to attend a few workshops and be prepared to do some homework. A kiltmaking course offers a perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and be inspired. It could make an ideal treat for a loved one who is interested in learning traditional artisanal skills.

 

10 day introductory course: A 10 day intensive course (including some homework) for £450 per head for tuition and £60 for the sampler kilt cloth, materials, and starter equipment. In this time, you will make a sampler kilt and make a good start on a full kilt (cloth to be purchased).

 

To provide the necessary continuous learning support, we also have ad hoc masterclasses and an established learning set where kilt makers meet together, Skype, network, share best practice and inspire each other.

 

All aspects of the kilt making process are covered – from taking measurements, planning and calculating the pleating, marking out, to the final press and finishing. There has to be personal coaching and therefore a workshop is limited to six people.  

Car parking and wheelchair access available.

Accommodation can be arranged for those from afar.