Difference Between Tartan and Plaid

Tartan vs Plaid
 
Tartan and plaid are closely related to Scottish culture. These two terms can be a bit confusing, even though they are related to the same culture.

In tartan, the coloured yarns are laced with alternating streaks. This method gives blocks of colours in horizontal and vertical patterns. On the other hand, plaid resembles English fabric that comes with a related design of vertical and horizontal streaks, which are dyed or laced into the fabric.  

In tartan, the pattern is formed by lacing threads at right angles, which produces very solid colours and light shades. In plaid, the material is cut and sewed into the fabric that measures three to six metres.

Tartan has a geometric pattern, whereas plaid has printed or even patterns, which means that it has geometric and overlapping squares.  

Of the two fabrics, tartan represents the Scottish clan. Tartan is identified with a particular clan family in the highlands. It was in the 1800’s that an effort was made to review the tartan culture. After that, tartan became the official dress of Scotland. People wear tartan on special days as a mark of respect.

The traces of plaid were seen during the 1560’s. During the medieval times, plaid was a blanket that was worn over other clothes and taken off when performing physical activities. It was the highlanders who used plaid for the first time.

As said earlier, tartan and plaid have many differences between them. However, these two fabrics represent a past tradition. These two are considered as symbols of Scotland.

Summary

1. Of the two fabrics, tartan represents the Scottish clan.
2. In tartan, the coloured yarns are laced with alternating streaks. This method gives blocks of colours in horizontal and vertical patterns.
3. Plaid resembles English fabric that comes with a related design of vertical and horizontal streaks, which are dyed or laced into the fabric.  
4. Tartan has a geometric pattern. On the contrary, plaid has printed or even patterns, which means that it has geometric and overlapping squares.  
5. Tartan is identified with a particular clan family in the highlands. It was in the 1800’s that an effort was made to review the tartan culture. The traces of plaid were seen during the 1560’s. During the medieval times, it was a blanket that was worn over other clothes and taken off when performing physical activities.