DebDemers

You did? Please try again. I wiped my computer and have been reinstalling all my programs for the last week. Actually, had to wipe it twice and start over. Two of the programs I updated turned out to be incompatible. Anyway, I don't recall getting private message. How do you contact someone from here as a PM?

Since I work for a construction company, I can easily scan and copy to disk or email the full size patterns and instructions sheets. I'll try reposting the photo of the package when I get home. Do you want to exchange emails addy so the discussion and exchange can go private?

Today I saw someone giving a demo of stitching saddle shearling to leather and instead of using the two needles method he was using a picking needle awl. Looks like a steel crochet hook. Looks easier and quicker to do that method. Unfortunatley, according to him, picking needles are no longer available. Does anyone know where they can be purchased? Are they still manufactured somewhere? Deb Demers

Okay...I found ONE of the patterns. It's the Trail Rider Saddle pattern. It come complete with a booklet with fully illustrated instructions, tooling patterns, and full size patterns for all the saddle pieces. I can't find the other saddle...must be hidden somewhere. It had double skirts which is what I like and I like roping saddle pommels. I've attached a scan of the front cover to show what the saddle looks like.

I, too, have always wanted to make my own saddle. For over 20 years it's been a "plan", but I've never had the time or money to do it. In preparation, many years ago I bought two saddle patterns that can be modified for pleasure and roping saddles. I planned on combining my favorite parts of both into one saddle. Somewhere here in my house are the two packages. If I can find them, I can get them reproduced and you can have copies. Before doing that, of course, I would send you the pictures of the saddles to see if they were anythin you were interested in. Deb Demers