Tartantown Blog

You may love the music of bagpipes or you may not quite like them, but you certainly cannot ignore the sound when you hear the lilting tunes. Back in the day, Aristophanes, a comic playwright of ancient Athens, joked about pipers from Thebes equating the sound with wailing dogs. That never dimmed its popularity throughout England. Both Henry VII and Henry VIII are said to have enjoyed the music of the pipers. From Chaucer to Shakespeare, the bagpipe has been mentioned by many. It travelled from country to country, revered to this day, making its own name in the pages of history.

The origin of the bagpipe is rather interesting. Contrary to popular belief, it was not born in Scotland but has its origins in the Middle East after which it travelled all the way to Europe and made its presence there. Here are a few fun facts to see the instrument in a new light.

10 Fun Facts 

1. The Gaelic word for “bagpipe” is “P’iob mho’r” that literally means “big pipe.”
2. The classical bagpipe music has an equally tongue-twisting name: “piobaireachd” (pronounced “peebrock”).
3. The bagpipe was traditionally made from the skin of sheep or elk skin which is turned inside out. Pipes were attached to the pockets where the legs and neck once were. Thankfully, modern bagpipes are made of artificial fabric such as Goretex.
4. The first documented European bagpipe dates back to 1,000 BC. References to the bagpipes in written form dates back to the 2nd century AD.
5. They were used in Great Britain, Ireland, Spain, Italy, France, Greece and Bulgaria. The Roman bagpipes were called “tibia utricularis” and the Bulgarian was called “Gaida.” Even the Tunisians, Egyptians and Indians developed bagpipe-like instruments. The Zampongno that evolved in Italy is fitted with two chanters.
6. The Scottish Highland bagpipes were used as an instrument of war right from the 16th century.
7. The chanter doesn’t rest between the tunes. The volume of the tune cannot be changed. The variation in tones is created through three drones that are belted out the top of the bag that produces a constant sound.
8. The Highland pipes are just one among thirty different varieties of bagpipes that have evolved worldwide. Unlike most other cultures, they kept the tradition of the bagpipe music alive. Don’t be surprised to find a great grand uncle or two in Scottish families who played the “Gaita.”
9. The instrument is comprised of several parts such as the blowpipe, the bag, the chanter reed, and the drone or drones. The chanter is from where the melody is created by the piper. The drone or drones belts out the constant note that doesn’t carry any variation.
10. There are nine notes that can be played through the bagpipe, ranging from G to A. The bagpipe bags hold air. The piper blows into it through a tube or pumps it with bellows. The air is pushed out creating a wailing sound when the bag is pressed or squeezed, called “drone.” Each drone plays a different but constant note with no variation through a vibrating single or double reed. The harmony is created by the “chanter.”

TartanTown - Your Scottish Department Store for Over 40 Years

We offer all things Scottish from traditional highland bagpipers to the tartan kilt, dance shoes and more for weddings, special events, graduations, birthdays and exclusive occasions. Our accessories are of the highest quality, available both for purchase and rent. 

We now offer Lee and Sons African blackwood bagpipes that are handmade in Canada. Give us a call to entice your guests with the vibrant and rich sound.

Some people with no connection to Scotland may feel awkward wearing a tartan, but there is no need to feel that way. There are several universal tartans anyone can wear regardless of their heritage. These patterns have become so renowned that people from all over the world have adopted them. Look out for these colours and patterns when searching for a tartan piece to add to your collection.

Royal Stewart

This is the tartan that started them all. It is the most well-known with its red background and green, yellow, and blue stripes. Sir Walter Scott chose it for King George IV's visit to Edinburgh. This was the time when laws banning tartan started to get lifted. Commoners took on the pattern as well to show their loyalty to the royals. That is when the royal family adopted the Balmoral tartan purportedly designed by Prince Albert. It is meant only to be worn by the royals and the Queen's piper. The Royal Stewart is the personal tartan of Her Majesty the Queen and is deemed appropriate for all subjects of hers to wear.

Black Watch

This deep blue and green pattern also known as Campbell honours the brave. The subtle depth and dark, moody vibe this pattern exudes makes it appeal to both men and women. British Prime Minister Theresa May often sports a suit with the pattern. Black Watch gets its name from being known as the plaid pattern worn on the kilts of the men a part of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders or Argylls for short. The design is also known as Government 1A with the 1B version being commonly commercially woven. The famous regiment is best known as the Black Watch. Their duty was to ensure the Highlands remained free of crime and deterred fighting between clans starting in the 1700s.

MacLeod of Lewis

This tartan is famously known as Loud MacLeod because of its bright yellow colour and is ideal for people who like to stand out. Originally from the inner and outer Hebrides Islands and the western mainland of Scotland, the Macleod Lews has outgrown these areas. It is recognized as one of the boldest patterns in the world.

Lindsay

Because of this tartan's classic red and green pattern, it is easy to style. It is often seen on women's school uniforms, jackets, and skirts. The first Lindsay recorded in Scotland was in 1120, but it was descended from Danes. The family that took on the tartan gained land in both Scotland and England but had to give up their English property during Scotland's wars of independence. The family has since spread out all over the world and so has their tartan.

Dress Stewart

Many school uniforms also sport this plaid, but it has gained popularity beyond that as well. Dress Stewart is used in high fashion and traditional pieces. Dress tartans, in general, are typically reserved for dress-up occasions. While this particular Dress tartan remains a source of pride for Stewart family members, it is also enjoyed by many all over the world. Dress Stewart is used commercially by many different types of designers.

Scotland Forever

A Scottish weaving mill invented this modern pattern. Its name comes from the famous battle cry heard at Waterloo. Scotland Forever was explicitly designed to be a tartan that could be worn by anyone anywhere regardless of their heritage.

Other Tartans

While donning a tartan gives clans and families a sense of pride in their heritage, they are not the only ones allowed to wear one. The tradition stems from honouring a community one belongs to. That is why there are plaids designed for cities, regions, schools, companies, clubs, events, etc. This list mentions some of the most known and used tartans in the world, but there is no rule stopping you from wearing others. Wearing someone's plaid is a sign of comradery and respect. So when it comes to choosing a tartan, pick any that you like. Think of the many patterns as Scotland's gift to the world.

Feel free to shop Tartantown and pick any plaid that catches your eye.

There is so much choice in the marketplace these days that selecting your bagpipe can be a daunting task. Whether a beginner buying your first set or an experienced player wishing to upgrade it can get very confusing.

To make matters more complicated, pipers are notorious for having many different opinions (especially online) and, as well, everyone is an expert!  Select trusted and experienced sources for information.

Factors:

1) Quality/Tone

2) Reputation/Experience

3) New vs. Used

4) Price

Quality/Tone:
Bagpipe makers have perhaps never been more competitive. There are a lot of good sets being made by very competent individuals and firms. We at Tartantown would like to think that all the makes we carry are quality products and that really a customer cannot make a poor decision. Where possible try and sample (or listen to) different pipers and instruments to try and determine your preferred sound. This will assist in narrowing the field. As well, ask reputable people for opinions and hope that two of them agree!

Reputation/Experience:
Consider the history and reputation of various bagpipe-makers and firms. This can be done by speaking with other pipers, searching online and by the good old-fashioned investigation. Historically, for decades, some very poor bagpipes were made. Conversely, some newer makers are putting out very good instruments.  They are taking great care making one set at a time and the workmanship and finishing are top-notch. Be careful not to buy extremely light-weight and cheap bagpipes. Essentially they do not work and are best mounted on the wall – preferably with a large nail right through the bass drone!

New vs. Used:
There are pros and cons to either choice. One major pro to new is the makers now have very strong warranties supporting their range – some as long as 10 years. For use, it is definitely “buyer beware”. The hardest thing to figure out when buying old pipes is determining exactly how dry the wood is and how it will react to sudden moisture. The stress on wood changing from dry-wet-dry is pretty incredible. Another point to consider is that (with old pipes) most often the bag is poor (or wrong size for you), the blowpipe is the wrong length or restrictive, the chanter is unbalanced and the reeds are poor (or sometimes rotten!). At the end of the day, there are some very good old sets around but, to us, the set needs to be outstanding in condition and sound, and the “deal” needs to be attractive to make this direction beneficial.

Price:
Pipes today are so good that price should be one of your lasts considerations.  The first instrument you buy could be your last as the quality should be excellent!  So buy high – and this is not to say the most expensive – but get what you really want (and can afford) and you will be a happy piper for a long time.  Remember piping is a journey and can be forever!  The pipes need to last and they will.  There are many 100+ year old instruments around the world.

Feel free to contact one of our bagpipe experts on-premises for sound advice.  We are proud that we have garnered a strong reputation in the industry over the last 40 years.

Bagpipes want to go out of tune continually and usually succeed! Anything to make the overall sound more pleasant and dependable is a good thing in the piper’s tool chest. Moisture control stabilizes tone for longer periods of time without question.  Back in the day, once the reeds were wet - that was the end of the story in terms of having the instrument work. Performances at the highest levels were marred by drones drifting out of tune.

Pipers have sought control by many methods in recent years. Thankfully, many products have come to market that have been “game-changers” in this quest – breathable bags, removable canisters, increased absorption reeds, and numerous others.

With the introduction of the Flux blowpipe, this could be another major game-changer. That is because moisture will be pulled out of your breath long before it gets to reeds. In fact, moisture is reduced pretty much as it comes out of one’s mouth – inside the blowpipe itself.

This should add some certainty to the where, and to what degree, moisture is being eliminated.

There will be a host of benefits but a few significant ones will be:

1. Extended playing time
2. Greater control of the instrument
3. More (or less) options for need in bag choice and overall moisture control

Scotland and Canada

The link between Scotland and Canada has always been strong.  There are so many connections in history, economically, politically, and culturally.

Immigration to Canada was very strong in the mid-1800’s and a number of famous Canadians immigrated from Scotland.  The explorer, Simon Fraser, is well-known for establishing roots in British Columbia and for exploring the Fraser River.  Politically, one needs to look no further than our first Prime Minister – Sir John A. MacDonald who was born in Glasgow, Scotland and immigrated to Canada with his family as a boy.

Of course, culturally, there are strong ties and we see traditions carrying on in sport, folk music,  Highland Games, and Robert Burns night events.  We at Tartantown celebrate and promote the continuation and development of traditional Scottish dance and pipe music throughout Canada and the world.

The national tartan of Canada is the maple leaf tartan, designed in 1964, and made an official national emblem of Canada is 2011. Each province and territory has a regional tartan with Nova Scotia being the first to officially adopt the Nova Scotia tartan in 1956.

We are proud to be a Canadian company for over 40 years.

Happy birthday Canada!

Need a traditional highland dress for a special occasion? Wondering whether you should buy or rent one? You may want to ponder through a few considerations:

Is buying a kilt more expensive than renting?

On first thought, renting may sound cheaper than buying an authentic kilt. After all, a kilt is a complex piece of clothing. A kilt can be worn for numerous occasions and many people find it more comfortable than wearing a suit and tie. A kilt from Tartantown lasts a lifetime so it is an excellent investment if you see yourself wearing the kilt to more than one event. 

Do you really need a good fit?

A kilt should always fit you like a glove. Off-the-shelf kits may not have the best fit for you. If the kilt is loose at the waist or made with longer straps, you may not be as comfortable. You may want to consider buying a custom kilt if you are particular about the fit of your clothing. Many consider buying a kilt to start and renting the accessories to keep the costs down. It is a good way to “test-drive” a new look.

Should you wear your own tartan?

Tartans represent the family or clan from where it originated. There are thousands of names affiliated to groups you can identify with – from regional tartans, city tartans, business tartans and more. Renting outlets may not stock one that distinctly represents you but, rather, contemporary (modern) tartans that anyone can wear. If you have a Scottish lineage, a special occasion is the perfect time to wear it with pride. Buying one may you give you the liberty to choose the tartan associated with your lineage. It is a matter of great pride to hand down your exclusive possession to the next generation.

Will a rented kilt be as high quality as a custom-fitted one?

Rental kilts are well made but can be a little lighter as there can be less yards of cloth. Going with a custom kilt gives you option to choose between a 5 yard or 8 yard kilt and between different weights of tartan cloth.

Tartantown - Your Scottish Department Store for Over 40 years

If you are shopping to rent a kilt, trust Tartantown to help you out. We have been in the business for over 40 years, providing premium kilts made in Scotland for weddings, graduations, birthdays and special dinners, for both purchase and rent.

We can help you discover your roots to choose the right tartan, find the right fabrics, and get custom fitted authentic kilts with accessories, made to exact measurements, that you can wear with pride.

While many people are still skeptical about buying clothes online, you do not have to be when it comes to buying your kilt at Tartantown.com. 

When it comes to picking a tartan for your kilt, there are thousands of options available. One can use their surname to find their clan affiliation and pick a tartan to represent their family. There are also many universal tartans that anyone can wear proudly. Browse our website's tartan finder or let us help you find the perfect tartan.

Although we have hundreds of tartan samples in our store, our online store has even more variants to looks at. Viewing tartans online gives you plenty of time to go through all of the options available. 

Measuring for a kilt can seem difficult, but you can use our online measurement guide to get your proper measurements. Please contact us on the phone or e-mail if you ever need more guidance for measuring.

We understand that not everyone has the time to schedule an appointment to come into the shop to be measured. Ordering online allows you to place an order on your own schedule at any time convenient to you.

If you are searching for a kilt, shop Tartantown online, we have a wide variety of to choose from and knowledgeable advisors you make your choice. We also have bagpipes and Highland dance supplies for sale as well. If you prefer a more personal touch, feel free to stop by our brick and mortar store in Coquitlam. is proud to bring quality Scottish products to Canada.

Learning Bagpipes

So you've decided you would like to learn how to play the bagpipes. Learning the bagpipe is a challenge and like every instrument, it is simplest to learn as a young child or teenager. Bagpipes can certainly be learned later in life though, as plenty of adults have made a hobby of piping. By combining endurance and patience with a regular practice schedule and good instruction, anyone can learn to play the bagpipe. We have to reiterate that good instruction is essential. The pipes aren't an instrument you just pick up and learn on your own - no matter how many other instruments you play. They are very technical with a sophisticated style of grace noting.

Practice Chanters

Practice chanters are bagpipe practice instruments used for learning how to finger. Practice chanters are durable and great for new learners as they’re made from polypenco, a type of plastic. These can cost anywhere between $75 and $175. They may also be made from African Blackwood and these may cost between $175 and $300 or more. As they are practice instruments, we recommend buying a basic model. Practice chanters come in two sizes: regular and long. The long chanter has finger holes exactly the exact same distance apart as a bagpipe chanter. Younger kids frequently begin on the shorter version.

Keep Practicing

You should use every chance you get to travel to bagpiping workshops. To make substantial progress, you need to commit to practice for no less than 20 minutes a day, five or more days a week. When you train, we suggest not doing so while you watch television. Bagpiping students that work the hardest and spend time practicing are the ones who progress the fastest. Talent is only one part of the equation - hard work is essential!

Tutoring Books

Your teacher may have his or her own recommendations when it comes to tutor books, and may even have their own out there. If not, there are many excellent resources available on the market. The National Piping Tutor Center is managed by none other than the National Piping Center in Glasgow. The College of Piping Tutor is another great resource for learning on your own or connecting you with a live teacher. Another helpful book is Jim McGillivray's Rhythmic Fingerwork. This book isn't for beginners, however. It's a workbook that will assist you in mastering all the intricate grace notes and doublings needed to play highland pipe tunes.

About Tartantown

Tartantown has been in business for over 40 years and is one of the world’s leading suppliers of traditional Scottish kilts, bagpipes, and drums. We have a large catalogue of exciting items that we will happily deliver to your home. Check out our site for regular sales and new arrivals.

Choosing a tartan you like is often the first step in discovering your perfect kilt outfit - but it’s not always easy. You may want a tartan that represents your Scottish heritage. Alternatively, maybe there’s a particular colour or style you want to showcase. Remember that not every tartan is linked to a specific family or district. However, knowing your tartan choices more candidly can surely help you make an informed choice.

What tartan to wear

The answer to this is quite simple. Choosing a tartan really is a matter of choice more than anything else. Your personal tartan style is something you can absolutely tailor your choice to. Regardless of your heritage, whether Scottish or not, there is a tartan out there that matches your style and taste.

Finding your family tartan

The first step to finding a tartan specific to your family name is to browse through a comprehensive directory of family names and tartans listed on the website like Tartantown who have a range of tartans to fit your specific taste and family tradition. Simply enter your family name into the search bar to find your tartan. If you can't find what you are looking for, do a little research around the Scottish Tartans Authority. You can always send us a message or give us a call as well!

Types of tartans

While the design of tartan is a personal choice, there are some common elements of tartans that distinguishes them in different styles. Most tartans have different or maybe commonly ancient, modern, dress, hunting and weathered. Generally, variations follow the same shades can be quite different.

ANCIENT

This tartan derives its name as it belongs to the time when natural dyes were used. This made the look a little faded and light. In ancient tartans, you can find that reds will be tilting towards orange and blue or greens may not be as rich.  These are often popular for men’s kilts.

MODERN

Most modern tartans are much bolder compared to ancient counterparts. Though they have the same as the ancient tartan, their darker and stronger stand out. However, sometimes their patterns can be very bright.

DRESS

These types of tartans are inspired by the Highlander women from the 17th and 18th centuries. They are nowadays found mostly in Highland are used by both men and women for all occasions.

HUNTING

Hunting tartans, as the name suggests, find their inspiration from the deep forests and woods. The on this variety are simply designed to camouflage with the forests and were developed using from nature. They work especially well with tweed jackets and accessories. These are often popular for men’s kilts.

WEATHERED

They give a rustic look and appear as if they have been through long wear and tear routine. They appear faded in terms of their and overall look. 

If you are still searching for an ideal tartan, that blends with your rich Scottish heritage or simply want to experiment with other types and of tartans, why not visit Tartantown, a reputed Scottish department store and explore more options.

The practise chanter is the double reed instrument that accompanies the Great Highland bagpipe. There are several myths about it that most of the world is unaware of. You may be surprised to know that the bagpipe was classified as a weapon of war up until 1996, not as an instrument to motivate the troops but actually respected as a serious weapon on par with the sword or musket. The shrill, piercing notes could indeed be heard at distances up to 10 miles through the din of battle. That’s not all! As the legend goes, the bagpipe is not traditional to Scotland but an Egyptian import. Below is a brief history of the bagpipe that may interest you.

Origins of the Bagpipe

So you thought the bagpipe is originally from Scotland? Not quite! Bagpipes were reportedly first used in ancient Egypt. Later it entertained the Roman infantry before it finally arrived in Ireland and Scotland. Highlanders have reasons to be proud still. They were the ones who honoured it most and used it best in both war and peace, finally elevating it as their national instrument.

Some believe that in each country that the bagpipe made its presence felt, the basic instrument constituted of the same elements: a bag with a chanter and one or more drones. They were usually blown by mouth to produce lilting tunes but others used a bellows attachment to produce air. The sustained tone that you hear is provided by the bag while the other tones to create music are produced by the musician blowing into the chanter.

Others contradict this theory. They believe that the original Highland bagpipe had just one drone. The second was added only in the mid to late 1500s. The third and greatest drone was adopted in the 1700s. In the Scottish Lowlands, pipers were well-respected performers at weddings, banquets, fairs and other community celebrations. There were no known master piper or piper schools at the time. Songs and music were played spontaneously, guided by the demands of the audience, often inspired by Celtic legends and folklore. The Highland piper had a high place in a society whose musical skills were enough to win him respect.

4 Ways to Choose the Right Practice Chanter

1. Perfect Tuning: Going back to the chanter, ever wondered how the pipers get the chanter to play their tunes perfectly? It’s really not as easy as it looks. Years of practice on a chanter chosen with great care makes the difference that Scotland takes great pride in. For perfect clarity, impressive volume and tuneful drones, you need a perfectly tuned chanter.
2. Good Projection: Listen carefully to the sound. Is it stifled and muffled or loud and clear? Does the sound travel up and down the chanter without obstruction? Are the high notes full and resonant or thin and faint?
3. Proper Pitch: Does it feel easy and exciting in your hands or heavy and uncomfortable? Play it without forcing the sound. The pitch should be strong but not shrill. There should be no effort in moving between High A and Low A. The sound should be sharp and pleasant.
4. Rich Harmonics: Harmonic frequencies should be rich and blend easily with the drone sound. It should produce a wide variety of frequencies without much effort. Notes should be stable, not shaky with slight variations in blowing strength.
5. Quality Reed: At no cost should the reed be consistently flat or too sharp on certain notes or it will affect the chanter. If it wavers or is unstable, get a new reed.

Tartantown - Premium Practice Chanters, Pipe Chanters and More

We have been in the business for over 40 years, providing premium Highland products from a traditional bagpiper, practice chanters, pipe chanters, kilts and more for celebrations, special occasions, and gifts, for both purchase and rent. All our products are authentic, high-quality and made in Scotland. Email us or call to schedule an appointment.

Think of Scotland and you can’t visualize the highlands without the classic bagpipe and kilt. The history of the kilt goes back to the days of the early Celtic race of Caledonia. Like much of British history, the kilt does not come without an argument or two, to back its claims of origin.

An Irishman might tell you that the traditional Scottish garment was originally from Ireland, introduced to Scotland by migrating Gaels only later. An Englishman will insist that an English native by the name of Thomas Rawlinson was the one who invented the kilt in the 18th century. Americans might lay a claim too, believing that they brought it back in fashion after the Oscar-winning film Braveheart escalated it to global stardom. In all fairness, you have to hand it to the Scottish folks for developing the kilt in the pre-seventeenth century.

Don’t believe us? Look up the acclaimed book “Old Irish and Highland Dress” by H.F. McClintock that contains documented details about the Gaelic clothing published first in 1943, now revived by Scotpress in the USA. Here’s a synopsis of the kilt’s colourful history:

Made in Ireland or Scotland?

Unfortunately for the Irish, there are no records to proclaim Irish heritage regarding the kilt. There are references to the leine or Irish tunic that had a skirt swirling around the knees but it was simply an extension of the tunic, not a separate piece like the kilt. If you mistake it for one in old sculptures, remember it is just that: a mistake in perception!

This confusion was further fuelled by the figures of warriors in the Middle Ages wearing quilted knee-length armour in both Ireland and Scotland. The vertical lines running down the tunic have been mistaken to be pleats, says the author. However, they are just quilting lines running vertically down the tunic that ends at the knee, he explains. The kilt was spotted in Ireland only in the mid-19th century. They were not worn by Irishmen but Scottish writers, so there!

The Early Highland Dress in Medieval Scotland

McClintock states that the earliest mention of the garment in Scotland is in 1093 in a saga called the Magnus Berfaet where King Magnus adopts the dress in the Western Isles of Scotland. There is a clear mention of bare-legged short tunics which is why he was called “Barefoot.” However, it was not still a “kilt” then in the strict sense of the word but more of a tunic. It was only in the 16th century that McClintock finds evidence of people wearing a belted “plaide” (Scottish Gaelic word for blanket) of heavy woollen fabric gathered into folds.

This also proves that the Americans got it wrong. The fashion statement in Braveheart was not quite correct. The belted plaid was never worn by Scottish Highlanders in the 13th or 14th centuries. The first reference to anything that was remotely close was not until 1578. Bishop Lesley in Rome wrote of the Highland Scots that the clothing was primarily worn for war, draped by both the nobility and commoners. It was gathered up into folds to use as a form of camouflage as well as a dress.

The only document dated before 1600 describing a belted plaid - the earliest form of the kilt - is an Irish source written in Gaelic called “Life of Red Hugh O’Donnell” written by Lughaidh O’Clery, clearly specifying that the Scots wore them. By the 17th century, references to the belted plaid became synonymous with the Gaelic Highlanders.

Kilt - The Long and Short of it

The garment was originally not tailored. It was simply a four to five yards long, mostly tartan-patterned woollen fabric with wide plaids that were never precisely folded nor sewn in, as they do now. The pleats were also used as blankets then.

In 1730 the kilt became shorter when an Englishman named Thomas Rawlinson cut the garment in half to help the workers go about their duties with ease in his stuffy iron-smelting factory. This way, the lower part could be worn separately. This historical slashing also gave rise to the English people’s insistence that they indeed invented the Scottish National dress.
The true tailored knee-length kilt as we know today with sewn box pleats entered only in 1792.

TartanTown - Your Scottish Department Store for Over 40 years

When you add a Scottish theme to your events or celebrate the great tradition of the Scottish people on special occasions, visit us. For over 40 years, Tartantown has outfitted weddings, graduations, birthdays, dinners, and special occasions with kilts and necessary accessories made in Scotland, available both for purchase and rental purposes. Fittings are by appointment only. Email us or call to schedule an appointment.

After 36 years in our current location, we are moving our shop from Coquitlam to Port Coquitlam. We plan to open at our new location on October 2^nd.. We appreciate everyone who has come to visit us from the Pacific Northwest and beyond over the last three plus decades. It is always great to catch up in person and we will continue to have a “brick & mortar” location. We are hoping to have as little disruption as possible to our online store and shipping orders but please be aware there may be some delay with shipments at the end of September and into early October.

To celebrate (and lighten our packing), we are having one of our largest sales ever right through the month of September. Pretty much everything in stock is on sale. Check it out!

 We look forward to having you visit us at our new location starting in October, 2023:

 708 - 2071 Kingsway Avenue, Port Coquitlam, BC.

 Our next milestone to look forward to: 50 years in business! This milestone is happening in 2026.

There is a lot of curiosity surrounding kilts - the traditional garment used by the Scottish usually with a tartan pattern. Although the origins of the garment can be traced back to the 16th Century, much has evolved in terms of the design, fabrication and tailoring of a kilt. Here is how a kilt is made.

Design and Construction

The Scottish kilt has a unique design, construction and convention which is distinct compared to any other type of garment. It is a tailored piece of garment which is wrapped around the waist. The fasting mechanism of a kilt comprises of straps and buckles that secure the garment on both ends. The inside strap usually passes through a slit near the waistband which is typically buckled on the outer side. In some constructions, this strap also remains tucked in and needs to be buckled inside the waistband.

A kilt usually covers the body from the waist to the knees. The front design comprises of overlapping layers that are called as aprons. It is actually a single piece of fabric which is pleated. A kilt pin holds the front apron on the free corner. Scottish traditions dictate that men are not supposed to be wearing any apparel under a kilt. However, many modern wearers prefer to wear shorts as a caution due to the kilt’s unique construction.

Fabric

A typical kilt is made from twill, which is woven worsted wool. A modern-day kilt for an adult needs about six to eight yards of 26-30 inches or three to four yards of a double width tartan fabric. A double width fabric is woven in such a fashion that the pattern matches on the selvage perfectly. Most kilts are hemless as it increases the weight of the garment and also changes its fitting on the wearer. However, the exact amount of fabric depends on several constraints like the size of the sett or the number of pleats put into the garment and the size of the wearer.

Setts

Setts are one of the most distinctive features of an authentic Scottish kilt. They are symbolic to a particular clan and be traced back to a couple of centuries. While today’s tartans depict districts, counties, societies and corporations, it was not until the Victorian era that the traditional tartans were even recorded and formalized.

Measurements

Although most kilts are ready to wear, bespoke kilts require at least three measurements: waist, hips, and length of the kilt. Although it may seem that kilts are loosely hanging, a properly tailored kilt can be bucked quite securely and comfortably around the wearer’s body. Standardly sized kilts, when bucked appropriately will reach only halfway across the kneecap.

Pleating and stitching

Usually, kilts are pleated in two ways: box or knife pleats. Knife pleats are simple folds, and box pleats are a bit bulky. Knife pleats are quite common in modern civilian kilts although their regimental traditions may be different. It is interesting to know that many tartan wearers choose a variety of accessories like belts, kilt pins and jackets to complete the look.

Finding an authentic kilt is a challenge, especially because this coveted garment has a unique construction, tailoring and tradition attached to it. If you are looking for an authentic kilt, visit us at www.tartantown.com to experience authentic Scottish traditions.

We have been supplying custom kilts for decades and one of the first questions we are often asked is what is the difference between a 5 yard kilt and an 8 yard kilt? The obvious answer is that there is more material but read below to find out which kilt is right for you.

How do they look different?

The extra material in an 8 yard kilt allows for deeper, crisper, and cleaner pleats that lay much flatter than a 5 yard kilt. An 8 yard kilt will also have a better swing or swish when walking. You can also choose to have your 8 yard kilt pleated to sett or pleated to stripe. Pleated to sett means the tartan pattern is replicated in the back of the kilt and is the most common choice.

 

How do they feel different?

An 8 yard kilt is substantially heavier but the 5 yard kilt still has good weight to it. Both kilts have the option to choose between 13oz or 16oz wool if the tartan is woven in both weights. An 8 yard kilt may also provide a bit more warmth while wearing.

Which do I choose?

Both 5 yard and 8 yard kilts are great options and many people own both for different occasions. If you thinking in terms of your budget, a 5 yard kilt will offer considerable savings while still allowing you to wear your tartan with pride. A 5 yard kilt is an excellent, affordable option but if you are looking for a traditional kilt to pass on for generations, an 8 yard kilt may be the way to go for you.

Please contact us at info@tartantown.com with any questions you may have.

It’s just as likely for the kilt-clad men to steal the show at a Scottish wedding as the women in attendance. Whether you’re a guest, the best man or the groom, you’re likely to feel a lot of pressure to look good. But not to worry, we’re here to give you the ins and outs of how to look your best, while still feeling comfortable, at a Scottish wedding.

Traditional Attire

You can’t go wrong with a traditional kilt outfit that honours your Scottish lineage. There are several ways to do this, some of which include wearing a kilt that represents your clan tartan, or a more contemporary tartan for all to wear.  Accessorize this with an appropriate jacket (prince charlie or argyll), sporran, hose, sgian dubh, and ghillie brogue shoes.  These will create a clean and traditional look for the big day.

Heritage Look

Inspired by the traditional style without acknowledging a specific clan, you can always choose a Scottish wedding look that honours the country’s rustic appeal. Go for a head to toe in a Prince Charlie or Argyle jacket.  Make a statement showcasing your creative style while still sticking to tradition. But you can’t forget about accessories! You can also go with a more rustic look incorporating a tweed jacket, vest, and matching socks.

Modern Outfit

Not everyone wants to rock a traditional kilt outfit from head to toe. Sometimes the occasion calls for something different, something completely out of the box. If you’re going for a modern look, try combining a slim herringbone tie with a tweed jacket.

Alternative Fit

If you don’t fancy the idea of wearing a kilt to a Scottish wedding, then that’s your decision. The good thing is that there are other ways you can maneuver around a traditional outfit. To stick with the traditional apparel, we recommend you try out a pair of plaid trousers instead. This is a great option that will keep you looking formal while still sticking to your own style and what makes you comfortable.

At Tartantown, we provide customers with a large variety of products spread throughout our 3,500 square foot store. Located in Coquitlam, British Columbia, our Canadian shop has bagpipes for sale, as well as kilts, highland dance supplies, drums, other dressing attire, instrument accessories and more. With expertly trained staff, be sure to stop by our shop or browse through our online store

In Canada, there are almost 5 million people who claim full or partial Scottish ancestry - around 15% of all Canadians. Considering Canada's strong ties to Scotland it is no wonder that our country, and provinces, have tartans of their own, some being official and some being unofficial. The first of all of these tartans was made in Nova Scotia in 1953. It is a signifier to the level of influence that Scottish immigrants have over the province - considering that Nova Scotia translates to New Scotland in Latin and in Scottish Gaelic the name for Scotland is Alba Nuadh, which also means New Scotland.

A woman named Bessie Murray designed the Nova Scotia tartan. Murray was the president of the Halifax Weavers' Guild and was called upon to create a trade display for sheep rearing. In the display, it was decided that there would be a shepherd wearing a tartan kilt. Murray did not want to display any kind of favouritism towards one clan over another, so instead of designing the shepherd with a clan's tartan, she created a new one all her own.

The new tartan that she created became incredibly popular and had been designed with Nova Scotia in mind. It featured five colours: blue, green, white, gold, and red. Each colour represented a different facet of Nova Scotia. The blue represented the sea, the green represented the evergreen trees, the white represented the surf, the gold represented Nova Scotia's Royal Charter, and the red represented the lion rampant on Nova Scotia's coat of arms.

The tartan has been designed with the help of Isabel MacAulay who was Canada's expert on Scottish Clan Systems and knew all things tartans. As the owner of Bond Textiles, she knew a lot about the creation of tartan. Once the popularity of their created tartan took off, it was MacAulay who registered it with the government of Nova Scotia in 1955 as well as with the Court of Lord Lyon in 1956. The Court of Lord Lyon is the official heraldry office in Scotland. They have the authority over all Scottish heraldry and coats of arms. The Court accepted the tartan, and it became an official tartan that year.

Seven years later, in 1963, the province of Nova Scotia passed the Nova Scotia Tartan Act, which had them officially adopt the tartan. This tartan is not clan specific and can be worn by anyone as a district tartan.

As part of the Tartan Act, every year on April 6th in Nova Scotia they celebrate Tartan Day. The purpose of Tartan Day is a day to appreciate the Scottish heritage and clans that make up Nova Scotia as well as those who are spread out across the nation of Canada.

At Tartantown, we have a variety of Nova Scotia tartan products. We offer our clients scarves, blankets, ties, and bowties. Browse through our extensive list of tartans and learn about the history that goes into their creation.