Kilt-making is not a simple process; it requires expertise, which is why every person cannot make kilts. The textile production of these apparel started back during the 19th century. Prior to it, people used to make kilts with their hands, even though the practice is still common in many parts of Scotland. However, kilts made by hand and machines have some dissimilarities that we are going to discuss here. So, let us start our primary topic: hand-made vs. machine-made kilts, without any delay.
Hand-made vs. Machine-made kilts
Before we discuss the differences individually, let us make it clear that most of the kilts for men we wear today are made with machines, but at minimum, by hand. However, a newbie to kilts may not differentiate between them. So, we have made a list of differences individually so you do not struggle to understand them if you are going to buy one.
Hand-made Kilts
The process of making kilts by hand has continued for centuries, and people still manually craft them. People who want to maintain their connection with tradition usually prefer them. Here are some features that differentiate them from machine-made ones.
Expert Skill Involvement: Machines are not involved in this process. Ancestors transfer the skill of kilt-making to their descendants. Experts’ minds are also directly involved in this procedure. Merging skills with creativity helps create something extraordinary.
Easily Customizable: You must realize that customization is a basic requirement in the clothing industry. Every individual today has different needs, and the hand-sewn kilt can be crafted accordingly. Experts can add hardware and extend or shorten the length as per requirement.
Improved Stitching Quality: The next thing that sets manually made kilts apart is the quality of stitching. Some parts, like pleats, require high-quality stitching to stay functional, while belt loops may have different needs. An expert making kilts by hand can bring accuracy in every aspect.
High-Pricing: The price factor is also uncommon. Since a person makes your kilt by hand, you will have to pay a specific labour cost, which definitely increases the cost. Being a time-consuming process, you may also have to wait to get the product.
Require High Level of Care: Washing the fabric is not recommended at all whether traditional tartan or utility kilts. You have to manually clean them without using a machine. Similarly, you have to keep a keen eye on wear and tear or any hardware problems.
Machine-Made Kilts
We have seen a few features of hand-made kilts until now. It’s time to shed some light on the characteristics of kilts made with machines so we can compare them and see how they are different from each other.
No Customization: Though the human mind is not directly involved, and machines directly make the kilts, this clearly reveals that no customization is possible at all. Machines make kilts in bulk, and customizing a single one is not possible.
A Bit Compromised Stitching Quality: Machines apply the same level of stitching to every part. If you need self-customization, you may have to use the same efforts to remove the stitching, whether modifying pleats or belt loops. So, the stitching quality can be a problem ahead.
Lower Prices: Let’s examine machine-made kilts from a pricing perspective now. These kilts are made in bulk, and no labour effort is required, so the prices are often low compared to hand-made kilts.
Compromised Appearance Sometimes: Though distinguishing between hand-made and machine-made kilts has become challenging now, still their appearance unintentionally reveals the origin. Pleats stitching is easily visible on them.
Easy Maintenance Comparatively: Made with different fabrics, machine-made items are non-washable primarily. They can still be washed if necessary, but without using machines.
Comparison Table
| Features | Hand-made Kilts | Machine-made Kilts |
| Skill Involvement | Expert craftsmanship, passed down through generations | Minimal human involvement, machine-made |
| Customization | Highly customizable (length, hardware, etc.) | Minimal customization, mass-produced |
| Stitching Quality | High-quality, detailed stitching (pleats, belt loops) | Standard stitching, less attention to detail |
| Price | Expensive due to labor and time investment | More affordable due to mass production |
| Maintenance | Requires manual care, no machine washing | Easier to maintain, but still non-machine washable |
| Appearance | More attention to detail, unique design | May have less refined pleats, easier to spot as machine-made |
Which One is Better?
Choosing between hand-made and machine-made kilts is a tricky task. However, the choice of wearers plays a primary part in deciding. If you are looking for a kilt with more detailed work, going with a hand-made one will be a better idea, but you will have to wait longer. On the other hand, you should go with a machine-made kilt if you cannot wait and want something at a cost-effective price.
Shop Self-customized Kilts from Utility Kilt UK
If you aim to represent Scottish culture in detail, you should choose a hand-made kilt for the next event. Finding reliable products bothers you, but it is not your problem anymore since Utility Kilt UK provides 100% customized kilts that are affordable. Give us a call at +441613991718 and let us know about your requirements. We will deliver what you want!
