Knight of One :: Knights Templar

The idea behind the creation of a Malta tabard was multi-fold. First, it was a way to incorporate the Maltese cross into the regalia's design. While the incorporation is of paramount necessity for a proper Masonic Knight Templar regalia, the creation of an entire tabard may be too much.

Another idea is that our outfits for the conferral of the Order of Malta could stand the addition of a tabard to the black capes. Considered from this perspective the creation of a tabard makes complete sense and would make a worthy addition to our regalia selection. However, the task at hand is the regular regalia and not regalia for the conferral of the Orders. While we could contrive a reasonable need for a tabard, there are other more cost effective ways to satisfy our needs.

Alternative to Tabard:

Chain mail mantle/coif (materials may be tricky)
Simple black crew neck sweater. This may be hot if in wool and color may not last if in cotton. $129 cashmere @ Land's End. $60 cotton/silk/cashmere @ Banana Republic.
Simple black crew neck poly sport top. This is probably the lightest option. $65.00 at Nike. Costs can vary, bulk supplies are not commonly available and there is a lack of consistency between brands. However, the black textured shiny fabrics add a very nice dazzle to the outfit.

Alternative to an embroidered Malta cross: suspend standard Malta jewel from a (chain-mail chain) worn about the neck. This gives a hint of chain-mail without the weight.