rktaylor Report post Posted November 16, 2015 I've been requested to make a set of bucking rolls for a Hope saddle. It will be my first project for hire. Based on this picture, I think I want to attach them where the red star is located. I could pull the nail behind that location, but I am not sure that is a good idea. I doubt it would go back in as tight as it is now. The saddle owner is fine with adding a screw to secure the rolls. I also want to make sure the rolls are mounted in front of the stirrup leather slot. That could mean making my own pattern. I have the patterns from the Tandy tack and accessory packet, but am seriously considering Jeremiah Watt's pattern and filler. Comments and advice are welcome. Randy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rktaylor Report post Posted January 27, 2016 I opted not to get the JW pattern and filler. Instead I modified the Tandy pattern. This is how they turned out. Comments are appreciated. Randy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Big Sioux Saddlery Report post Posted January 28, 2016 Randy, I didn't see your original post back in November. If I had, I would have urged you to get the JW pattern. The filler is fine, but you can do without it and just stuff them the conventional way. I think the filler is plenty expensive for what it is. I think I've tried every buck roll pattern marketed commercially, and revised them, designed my own, bought some blanks from other guys. For 20+ years I HATED making buck rolls, and even refused to make them for a time. Last year I bought the JW pattern, a set of fillers, and yes, I sprung for his video as well. I had made quite a few pairs through the years by that time, but I did pick up a few handy hints in the video and feel it was worth the money just for that. One day I decided to do nothing but make buck rolls until I got them right. Actually, I do that from time to time with a specific item or process that gives me trouble; I do nothing but that process for a day or two or whatever it takes until I get it down. There are things I make or processes I do in the shop that aren't routine enough to get proficient doing it just when needed. Making "rounds" is one of those processes that comes to mind. Anyway, I probably ended up spending about 3 days making buck rolls, but by the end, I was satisfied with the results. I'd known for years that a good pattern was the key, but I just couldn't find one, nor make one. Even with a good pattern, they can be tricky buggers to make. Yours look exactly like mine did using the Tandy pattern. Not saying yours look bad, but I like a certain look, and the Tandy pattern rolls don't have it. I also like to use a welt. I feel it looks more professional and strengthens the seam. I would really like to learn how to make them out of one piece of skirting, with no seam down the center. There is certainly a trick to that! Sharon Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rktaylor Report post Posted January 28, 2016 Sharon, No worries on missing the post and I welcome the comment on the rolls. I would say they are adequate, but certainly not impressive. However, the customer was pleased. I did make a practice bucking roll and agree that after a few more, I could improve. However, I may never make another set. If I do, they will probably have a welt. There are so many things I need to practice making, that if I did I would never get anything else made. I have read your comments on 'rounds' before and have read some of Stohlman's instructions. That's something I should practice. Thanks for the input and advice. Randy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
