hankthedog

I was a cobblers apprentice years back - the guy I worked for did orthopedics and custom shoes for those with disabilities and / or deformed feet. There is alot to it but in the end it's pretty simple. For best results you will need a last of both feet to build on. Meaning you will need to find a pre-made last of the proper size and style (or modify one) or build your own last. If memory serves me Ruby Leather has shoemaker supplies ? you'll need some casting foam and plaster of paris to make a mold / last of your foot. from there it's pretty simple, go to the thrift store and buy a pair of well built shoes and cut them apart to see how they are constructed. Something else is to find a local "real" shoe repair shop (are there any left?) and ask if they can assist - if you are doing a sew on sole, you'll need someone to sew it on for you. Good luck !

I may be wrong but IIRC the 206RB has reverse and the 226 (no "R") has no reverse ? I would check further before purchasing. I have a 226R and use it for upholstery and leather and etc. I Love it ! A larger bobbin may be a nice feature for you ? I use pre-wound bobbins so it's not a big deal to me - As long as you have enough of the old seat intact, making your own patterns is simple. Normally seats are beat up on the door side on vehicle only so you can mirror the pattern easily. Have fun with it, and don't be afraid to ask questions. I like to take pics of stuff as I take it apart and make notes on how it's all layered up so when it goes back together it's a no-brainer.

Thanks, already have it - I (like many others) never realized how involved a saddle is- I gotta visit my friend w/ horses and get a closer look see. Ordering my hardware today - a few more hours of sanding and I'll be ready for the clear coat.

Yes, I did the horse== 1/2" multi core plywood laminated, then carve away everything that "isn't a horse" 1st attempt - saw a picture online and had to build one - after finishing they are absolutely beautiful ! (you can buy the "kits" online for 360 pounds, or a "finished" horse complete for around 2000 pounds) 1 pound = 1.64 usd I can't wait either - what you see is about 50 hours work

Greetings to all - I don't pretend to know anything about saddle making or even horses for that matter - BUT - I'm going to build a saddle anyway - Attached is a photo of my first "horse" I plan on building a saddle for - the level of detail will not be authentic, but the look of it will be, as well as being removable. I can build anything so I'm not scared, just a little foolish ? At any rate - as it progresses I will update w/ more photos. Just wanted to say Hi to everyone. " Hi " My plans are for an English style saddle due to the size of the horse - (the finished saddle will be smaller than 1/2 a football) When I do a larger version I plan on doing a traditional western style saddle from scratch - Yes, I realize I have much to learn -

Greetings to all , I'm new to saddle and tack, but have worked as a cobblers apprentice and am no stranger to sewing. I realize saddle making is an art and not for the "beginner" == I have a few references on saddle nomenclature and a couple "books" that detail the parts and such as well as step by step for making saddles. I also have a Consew 226r and a Durkopf patcher (LOVE my patcher !) as well as a few lighter duty machines (good old singers) nothing less than 25 years old. That being said, I'm certain I can build a saddle, or I wouldn't even try - My question is this == as much as I'd like to learn the "proper" method of building a saddle, I don't believe I actually need a "real" saddle for a rocking horse ? This is my first horse of this detail and want the saddle and tack to be "authentic" without spending too much time and material on it = I'm building it as a prototype of sorts to test the waters if I may be able to be profitable doing so. Future horses will be more detailed (and different sizes) and the level of detail on the saddlery will depend on the customer. So, has anyone any experience or input on level of detail and parts you would either eliminate or combine to ease assembly and save time, etc ?? For this horse I am planning an English style saddle mainly due to the small size of the horse. Any input is greatly appreciated-

OK, I gotta chime in - let me start by saying Nice job on the table and legs !! I was hoping to see the black iron pipe version - visit a scrap yard, you may be surprised what you will find. A few years back I scored a 120 gallon compressor tank for scrap price. Harbor Freight (admit it, you buy their stuff) has a workbench suitable for a machine- Being I have alot of MDF and plywood, I prefer 1-1/2" MDF with a plastic laminate top and T edging= I'm still using K legs, but mounted them to a heavy duty cart w/ 3" wheels at the same height as my other benches in the shop. Lots of good stuff here !

In the past, I was able to e-mail singer and they identified my machine(s) date of birth by the serial number-- I know it doesnt matter, but neat stuff to know. Plus one on this weblink - I've been using it for years - Now if I could only find a manual for my Durkopf / Adler patcher - tried the factory, none to be had. cheers