Continuing the tradition of heritage crafts is an important part of our work at Weald & Downland Living Museum. A considerable amount of heritage crafts are at risk of being lost forever and so we take as many opportunities as possible to educate our visitors in the ways of the past.
Over the weekend of the 14-15 September we will be hosting an array of makers and crafters from around the UK, including members of the Heritage Craft Association and our own volunteers and workshop leaders, who will be sharing their skills with visitors and showcasing their work.
One of the craftsmen who will be joining us at the Museum for this special event is Paul Henry of Paul Henry Kilts. Paul will be demonstrating the art of hand tailoring, transforming woollen cloth into a perfectly fitting garment. We caught up with Paul to find out a little bit more about his specialist area and why he feels it is important to preserve these skills for future generations…
How did you discover your interest in tailoring and what prompted you to turn that into a career?
I learnt to sew as a small boy which led to sewing my own clothes, then for others. I also created theatre costumes which helped me to understand the need for careful tailoring and being able to do alterations and adjustments. Somehow, I caught the textile bug! Various members of my family made clothes as a need or hobby so there was always something being made as I grew 
your craft evolved over the years?
Do you stay true to traditional methods or are there modern techniques you employ?
Most of my work is based on traditional techniques and a kilt is almost entirely hand sewn, but I do use a sewing machine for the multilayer waistbands – sewing though 12 or more layers is very hard on the hands!
I suppose I have adapted techniques to suit, but really all true tailoring work is similar regardless of the garment. I was lucky to get a good grounding in the basic techniques of sewing, there are comparatively very few actual stitches to learn but very many ways to use them, and that takes time and practise.
You predominantly make kilts, what is it about this specific item that captures your interest?
A kilt is a chance for a man to wear something special. Each kilt I make is bespoke so it becomes very individual and personal, it’s a chance for someone to get something unique to them. Working to commission is always demanding but the rewards are very high. I enjoy working with a client and try to make something that they will enjoy wearing for many years.
Tell us a bit about what visitors can expect from your demonstration at Weald & Downland Living Museum?
I will have a selection of kilts in varying stages of construction, and I will be hand sewing throughout the weekend. I will have lots of samples of many tartans and some tartan reference books, and I will also show an overview of tartan and kilt history with examples of the main developments.
Most of the samples I have on show will be available for inspection and handling. I have a very keen interest in textile (and Scottish textile) history and am always happy to answer questions.
Why do you think it is important to keep the skills of the past alive for future generations?
I get huge pleasure from working in traditional ways, it’s never fast but I think there is a lot to be valued with slow and careful working – it gives you a chance to take time to enjoy the tools and materials. I think these skills should be seen and shared to everyone, if not they will become a mystery.
You can find Paul along with many other talented crafts people here at our Made By Hand weekend. Alongside the series of wonderful craft demonstrations, there will be family activities, historical performances and much more.
Click the link for more information – LINK
