Bagpipes Sale

Universal tartans that anyone can wear

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.

Things you should know about tartans

There are several notable things Scotland is known for, one of which being tartans, of course. But, there are also several renowned things about tartans. It is a type of pattern and fabric that has taken the world by storm since it went mainstream. Here are some facts about tartans that you might not have known:

Elvis has his own tartan – The King of Rock ‘n Roll has two tartans designed in his honour. He is said to have roots in a small village in Aberdeenshire called Lonmay. Mike King, a local designer, created the official Presley of Lonmay. There is also a print called Presley of Memphis designed by Brian Wilton. It is based on the colours of the United States flag and has a gold strip to represent Elvis’ Gold Discs. The tartan even has a thread count of 42 to signify his age when he died.

A piece of tartan was in space – An American astronaut of Scottish descent named Alan Bean took a piece of MacBean tartan to the moon with him. He brought it along on his Apollo 12 mission in 1969. There were rumours he left it up there, but he had brought it back with him back to Earth. Bean donated pieces of the tartan to Clan MacBean and the St. Bean Chapel in Perthshire.

Queen Victoria made tartan popular – While she is not exactly known as a trendsetter, Queen Victoria is said to have made tartan as popular as it is today. She wore it to the great Exhibition of 1851 and sales of the pattern skyrocketed. It became a popular uniform option for schools and has since been adopted in schools around the world.

Tartan is huge in Japan – The country is the largest importer of Harris Tweed, a pattern from the Outer Hebrides. Tartan is prevalent in Japanese runway fashion and streetwear. Designer Jun Takahashi had models strut down his runway in head to toe plaid. There are even several tartans made for the country’s most famous anime cat, Hello Kitty.

Plaid for the police – Black and white checkered uniforms and vehicles are used to identify police all over the world. The design is a tartan called Sillitoe Tartan named after Chief Constable Percy Sillitoe from Glasgow. The checkered pattern was first used by police in Scotland in 1932 and has since been embraced by police forces all over the world.

The most expensive tartan – Knitwear firm Holland & Sherry makes the priciest plaid. It is a pure Mongolian cashmere blend that costs about $850 CAD per square metre or $8,500 for a full kilt. Fortunately, most kilts and tartan cost far less than that.

It is not just for the Scottish – You do not have to be from a Scottish clan to wear a family tartan. The many patterns that exist did not even become associated with specific family names until the 19th century. Before that people simply picked colours they liked, as they can now.

If your wardrobe is in need of a bit of plaid or you want to add to your collection, visit Tartantown. We have a wide selection of patterns to choose from.

Buying Bagpipes – New or Used

Standard models come up for sale now and then for Delrin bagpipes. You are more or less guaranteed that the internal health of the bagpipe will be unaffected. Meaning no cracks, warps, or shrinkage. Everything should be as it was when it was first made. There may be some exterior signs of use; however, internally it should be perfect. So, unless you are passionate about having something special or unique regarding aesthetics, a used, standard model Delrin bagpipe is a great value. Although, expect to spend a bit more for chords, bag, reeds, and a cover. You may also need to alter the length of the blowpipe by getting a new mouthpiece.

There is even more to consider when purchasing a wooden bagpipe. There are many more types of new wooden bagpipes that are more complex than Delrin types.

New bagpipes usually come with a guarantee as makers want to ensure their customers are happy and keep their reputation strong. You can expect an adequate and quick response from the maker should you have any issues with a new bagpipe.

Here are some specifications to consider when buying a new wooden bagpipe:

Reputation of the maker
Quality of wood
Sound and performance
Quality of artistry
Delivery time
After-purchase support
Price

There are only a handful of exotic hardwood suppliers worldwide. Some are stricter with their selection than other and have varying degrees of standards. The wood needs time to adjust as it goes through the manufacturing process. It is essential that the maker not rush any stages of the manufacturing process or the wood will shift after the bagpipe is completed. This can lead to visible cracks, profiles, and wraps as well as non-concentric bores.

Wood is an organic material and does tend to have a mind of its own. Even the most experienced maker can encounter issues. If there are problems with several sets of bagpipes from one maker, it is safe to assume they are not selective enough with the wood they choose or care for it correctly during the manufacturing process.

Bagpipes that look good on the outside may be seriously flawed on the inside. Many pipers do not realize that wormholes can exist in the wood. Some insects can bury into even the hardest wood. A piece one maker rejects might get approved by another who tries merely to fill the hole. This flaw may not become evident until many years later either.

If you do choose to go for a used bagpipe, be sure to inspect it thoroughly or risk spending even more on making it right. If possible, get a second opinion to be sure you did not miss anything during your inspection. If you cannot see the bagpipe in-person, ask for plenty of pictures.

Regardless of if you are buying a new or used bagpipe, you should consider the same things for either. Ask lots of questions and do a lot of research before making your final selection. If you are after specific qualities, then a new bagpipe might be better suited for you. A used bagpipe will work fine for people who are less specific and know what works for them well.

#MccallumBagpipes #DavidNaillBagpipes #HendersonBagpipes #UsedBagpipes

Fun Facts About Scottish Highland Bagpipes

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

The Gaelic word for “bagpipe” is “P’iob mho’r” that literally means “big pipe.”
The classical bagpipe music has an equally tongue-twisting name: “piobaireachd” (pronounced “peebrock”).
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.
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.
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.
The Scottish Highland bagpipes were used as an instrument of war right from the 16th century.
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.
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.”
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.
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.

What is the difference between Irish and Scottish Bagpipes

The melodious sounds of bagpipes are often associated with a rustic lifestyle of the highlands. There are two popular types of bagpipes in the realm of music; Irish and Scottish. The two instruments are difficult to distinguish between but consist of numerous minor distinctions that make them different from one another.

Irish Bagpipe

Irish Uilleann Pipes are known as the most elaborate bagpipes in the world. Bellows inflate the instrument instead of being blown by mouth and is capable of playing more than two entire chromatic octaves, while, most bagpipes can only play one. The Irish bagpipe is moderately quiet, equipped with the loudness of only two fiddles.

The Irish bagpipes are also composed of three drones. The most interesting structural trait of the instrument is it’s three or more oboes, shaped to form one octave, four to five note harmony pipes with keys that are played by the wrist, along with several chords. The Irish bagpipe is performed with one leg lowered.

Scottish Bagpipe

According to history, Scottish bagpipes were made in the mountainous western islands and the highlands of Scotland around the 1500’s. The instrument is accompanied by a high-pitched chant that can play a low fixed scale of nine notes and three large drones, that are all attached to the bag located under the ram which contains the air that is blown through the blowpipe with the mouth.

The accompanying drones are tuned to B-flat and play a sole bass and treble tone. The scale of the Scottish bagpipe operates from A to A but consist of one note under the range, namely a G or a 7th. Scottish bagpipes were traditionally used to play long and slow musical pieces.

Main differences between Irish Bagpipes and Scottish Bagpipes

The Irish and Scottish bagpipes are similar in the utilization of taps and cuts to produce melody and rhythm.

Irish bagpipes can employ sophisticated techniques to alter the pitch, comprise vibrato, and shade the not to produce different tones. While Scottish pipers can render more intricate ornaments to combine various grace notes. To sum it up, Irish pipes carry the capability to play with vowels, while Scottish pipes are more compatible with consonant percussive sound.

Traditionally, musicians who play Scottish pipes are joined by other pipers. Each band member is required to perform in coordination with others. Thus, the ability to read and memorize music is incredibly important. Meanwhile, Irish pipers are often played solo, and the musicians are encouraged to add variations to their session and improvise. Irish pipers learn and play music by ear instead of through music sheets.

Moreover, Irish pipes are capable of playing more than one type of scale and two octaves. Scottish pipes can play one note and one octave while being limited to the A-Mixolydian scale and its likes.

Contract Tartantown!

The Scottish and Irish variation of the magical musical instrument, Bagpipes can be found at Tartan t own. Located in Coquitlam, BC we carry all types and parts of Scottish instruments and attire.

Visit tartantown.com to view our vast collection of gifts, rentals, musical instruments and attires. You may come into the store or order online. You may also call to chat with us at 604-936-8548.

Are Tartan Skirts in Fashion?

Kilts are ubiquitous in Scotland, being their number one fashion piece every year. However, does that style translate to other countries like the States or Canada? The answer is yes! Below, we outline why you need to include a tartan skirt into your wardrobe today.

Tartan skirts are a great way to add a sense of flair and style to any outfit as it can be modified in a bunch of different ways. Below we will go through the most popular styles that you can wear your tartan skirt.

Box Pleated

A box pleated tartan skirt is the most traditional style that you can wear your tartan skirt in. They are like a mini-skirt that has a lot of layers to give it a one-of-a-kind look that goes back to the roots of Scotland!

Plaid Mini Skirt

Whether it be going out for dinner or a night out at the club, a plaid mini skirt will sure to make a statement and stand out among the crowd. Show off your heritage with a plaid mini skirt!

Fringe Tartan Skirt

Add even more style to your plaid mini skirt with fringes. The way these skirts work is that you will wear the skirt on your waist and stop mid thigh, then tassels will hang down from the hem for a detailed experience.

Long Plaid Tartan Skirt

If you are looking for a stylish tartan skirt that covers the entire legs, check out the long plaid skirt style. You can pick any colour you want for these skirts and pair it with any top for a cute outfit that will keep you warm and cozy.

Tartan Maxi Skirt

Much like the long plaid skirt, a tartan maxi skirt is a flowy skirt that makes a big fashion statement. These skirts are worn high up on the waist and flow down to the ankles.

No matter which style you choose, you can’t go wrong with adding a tartan skirt into your wardrobe. At Tartantown, you will get the highest quality kilts and tartans that fit you like a dream. Give us a call today or contact us through our website today.

How to Find Your Perfect Kilt

It can be a daunting task finding your perfect quilt. A good quality quilt will be with you for many years to come, so you want to make sure that you get it right. The good news is that you are in the right place. Below we will take the hard work out of finding the perfect kilt, and give you some tips to use when shopping.

Kilt vs Kilt Outfit

First, you should think about whether you want a kilt or a full kilt outfit that is complete with a jacket, waistcoat and accessories. To make the decision you should think about how you want to wear your kilt and what you already have in your closet. Braemar or Argyll jackets are a bit shorter than normal suit jackets and are designed to complement the shape of a kilt. If you are buying your kilt for a black-tie event, then you should opt for a Prince Charlie Jacket and waistcoat instead of a tuxedo jacket.

Budget

Next, you’ll want to think about how much you are willing to spend. Many times this will be the deciding factor. No matter your budget there is a well-made quilt for you. Custom made kilts are made by experienced tailors, who are independent most times. This is a great option for those who are willing to spend a bit more and want a personalized kilt.

Timeline

When do you need your kilt by? You should have a timeframe in mind for when you would like to have your kilt as this can help you determine if you can get something personalized, and need one that is ready to go. Most custom kilts can be completed anywhere between four to six weeks depending on the availability of your chosen materials.

Event

Where will you be wearing your kilt? If you are shopping for a kilt for a special occasion like your wedding you will probably want to invest in a custom kilt. If you need it for everyday use, then an already made quilt will be the way to go.

Choose Your Tartan

Either you’ve found the perfect kilt or you’re having it made, the next step is to choose your favourite tartan. With over 500 tartans to choose from, it all comes down to your personal style and preference.

Complementary Accessories

Now that you’re got your kilt, jacket, and waistcoat figured out, you’ll want to choose some great accessories to pull everything together. You can choose from a range of accessories that include, but are not limited to headgear, belts, and a Sporran.

For all of your kilt needs come into Tartantown.

Casual Kilt Wearing

Kilts in San Francisco, Seattle and Portland

There is a common misconception that kilts are only for formal occasions, specifically weddings. We are here to tell you that you can wear your kilt with your favourite shirt and a pair of boots. There is no bad time to wear your cult. There are no set rules, and if you are comfortable then you should always do it.

Every man has a different style, but we have compiled a list of tips for casual kilt wearing.

You can wear kilts for any occasion. They are great options for instances where you need to have more freedom such as hiking or driving for long periods of time. In and outside of Scotland, you’ll find men casually wearing their kilts out and about on the streets, local pubs, and sometimes even at work. You can wear your kilt anywhere that you wear your jeans!

How to Style Your Kilt for Everyday Wear

Like any other outfit, how you style your kilt will depend on where you are going and the weather. It always encourages you to be creative with your personal tips, but here are some styling tips to help you along the way.

Your Kilt

You can choose from a custom kilt or an already made kilt. Both are great options and will depend on your style and budget. You’ll want to go for a warm muted tartan that you can wear with a varying range of colours in any season.

Your Shirt

Choosing a shirt to wear with your kilt can be tricky. You should go for a collarless shirt, in the warmer months, and a chunky knitted jump for autumn and the winter months. To tie everything together we recommend choosing a colour that is complementary to your kilt’s tartan. You’ll want to avoid very busy patterns or something with too many graphics. Whatever top that you choose, make sure that you tuck it into your kilt for a casual put-together look.

Foot Wear

Most men pair their kilts with boots. Black leather boots are a great combination of tradition and style. You’ll want to go for a kilt hose that matches your tartan’s colours or hiking socks and push them down to the tops of your boots to create a stylish cool look. If boots aren’t your thing you can go for casual brogues, suede brogues, or boat shoes.

Accessories

The easiest way to dress down your kilt is to not opt for a full dress sporran. Instead you should go for a casual day sporran.

Remember to have fun and stay true to your personal style when wearing your kilt casually. For all of your kilt needs come into Tartantown!

Why Correct Dance Attire is Important

When you go dancing class, you need to be dressed appropriately so that you can get the most out of your practice. Dance is just like any other sport in this regard. You wouldn’t show up to hockey practice without your helmet and mouthguard, and likewise, you need to be properly outfitted when you attend dance class. Different studios do have different rules of what you can or cannot wear, but generally speaking, there are certain rules that most teachers follow when it comes to attire in class.

Here are the general rules for practice clothes and why following your dance school’s dress code is essential

Teachers Need to See Lines

Anyone who has danced knows that posture and lines are incredibly important to nailing moves. When you wear proper, tight-fitting then your teacher will be able to see if your posture is proper or if you need improvement. Baggy clothes, while comfortable, make it impossible for a teacher to judge if you are using proper form. This is why leotards, tights, and shorts are considered the standard for Dancers.

Limit Distractions

The last thing you want to be during dance class is uncomfortable. If you are in clothes that don’t fit properly, itchy, or too tight then you will end up distracted by your outfit and will not be focusing properly on your dance. This goes for as well. Bangles on your wrists can make noise that distracts you and others, and if you are wearing a heavier necklace, it can end up bouncing up off your chest and hitting you in the face (you would not be the first person to chip a tooth this way). The one exception to this rule is when you practice in your show clothes, which you need to do. If you only wear your show clothes on the day of a competition or recital, then you have the potential of not knowing how to move in them. Start practicing in your competition outfit early but take proper care of it and only wear it for Practice.

Looking at the Part

You may forget it, but back when you were a child, and you received your first dance outfit, you were beyond excited. Once you put on your leotard, even though you did not know any moves, you felt like a real dancer. Looking at the part and wearing appropriate practice clothing is an important part of feeling like a dancer. It is also your uniform, the same way how other team sports have a uniform. Hockey players, basketball players, soccer players – they all have jerseys that identify them as part of a team; your dance outfit does the same thing.

Practice in a Kilt from Tartantowm

If you are looking for tartan fabric and dance kilts, then you need to browse our selection on Tartantown. Practicing your dance in a kilt will help you get used to the feel, especially if you are not used to wearing kilts or skirts. Browse our dance dress tartan, and clan tartans, and find the best one for you!