Tartans and kilts are iconic symbols of Scottish heritage, rich in history and culture. However, gaining an in-depth understanding of these elements can be challenging as weaving mills are not always accessible to the public, and kilt makers often work from home, remaining unseen. This means visitors are left to admire the tartans and kilts in shops without fully comprehending the artistry involved in their creation.
LEARN THE SECRETS OF KILTS AND SCOTTISH TEXTILES
WITH A KILTMAKER
Join us for a private talk and workshop
about kilts, tartans and tweeds
Meet a kiltmaker and step into the world of Scotland’s Highland dress and tartans. In this private talk and workshop, you’ll discover the fascinating journey of the kilt — from the ancient Feileadh-mòr (great kilt) to the hand-tailored kilts of today. One of the participants will even have the chance to wear a great kilt, bringing centuries of tradition vividly to life. Along the way, you’ll see iconic tartans up close, feel the cloth in your hands, and explore the richness of their patterns.
As artisan kiltmakers, we share with you the skills behind handsewn kiltmaking — a craft now recognised as endangered. Step by step, we reveal how a bespoke kilt is created, showing the precision, patience, and artistry required to make such a garment entirely by hand.
This experience is not only about listening — it’s also about doing. You’ll have the chance to try pleating a tartan yourself, guided by us, exploring different ways of folding the fabric to create unique designs. For those who wish, you can also create a small tartan accessory to take home (available at an additional cost).
Throughout the workshop, you’ll enjoy a genuine encounter with professional kiltmakers. This is a rare opportunity to meet artisans who keep this endangered tradition alive, and to learn directly from artisan kiltmakers practicing today. An exclusive, authentic experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Book your private talk at the kiltmakers’ workshop (1-3 people)
Select your preferred day and time to pre-book your workshop. We’ll get back to you by email with your confirmation, a payment link to finalise your booking, and the exact address of the venue.
If you have any special requirements, or would like to discuss alternative options and conditions, please use the contact form below and we’ll be in touch.
Book for a group of 1-3 people
Number of people
1-3 (for larger groups, fill in form below)
Duration
2 hours
Location
Our private workshop, meadowbank area, Edinburgh.
20 min by bus from Princes Street – Bus stop Piershill Square West
(exact location will be sent by email)
Price
£200 per group
Option
Optional creation of a tartan brooch (£5 extra per person) or a tartan necklace (£20 extra per person). This will be invoiced upon request after the booking has been confirmed.
Cancellation and Payment Policy
My partner and I were fortunate to participate in a kilt workshop with Jonathan. His passion and enthusiasm for sharing knowledge are truly evident! We were warmly welcomed and learned so much about the history and craftsmanship of this iconic Scottish garment, the kilt. The work is of the highest quality, and generosity is ever-present! Wishing continued success for this wonderful project!
Rachelle BK
Book your private talk in Edinburgh city center
For groups larger than 3 people, or if you would like the talk to take place in a private venue in Edinburgh city centre, please complete the form below. We’ll get back to you promptly with availability and a tailored quote specific to your group.
You can also write us directly at:
contact@auldalliancekiltmakers.com
They trusted us
Cancellation and Payment Policy
Full payment is required at the time of booking.
Once your reservation is confirmed, you will receive an invoice and a payment link for a bank transfer. The invoice can be issued in British pounds (GBP), euros (EUR), Swiss francs (CHF), US dollars (USD), Canadian dollars (CAD), Australian dollars (AUD) according to your preference.
Payment covers 100% of the total amount.
50% of the total amount is non-refundable.
In case of cancellation:
– 7 days or less before the workshop date: no refund will be issued.
– More than 7 days before the workshop date: a 50% refund of the total amount will be issued.