adagocowboy

I have the Stohlman books as well as the Dusty Johnson book and DVD. I use them both frequently. I have built a bunch of saddles, and I learn something new each time. (not always good)

I use weldwood cement, but only about two inches in around the skirt. 1 thin coat over the woolskin for sealing. I have relined saddles with this method, you only have to fight with the 2" around the edges this way. I wonder if rubber cement would work better? May try it next saddle.

This is the last saddle I built on a good quality, reasonably priced tree I bought from Jeremy.

I just ordered a 16" cliff wade tree from Jeremy Stead, he said he had 2. You might try him at www.ranchsaddle.com or he is also a member of Leatherworker.net. Rick

I have talked to Jeremy, and ordered saddle trees from him. He is an honest business man. I have even phoned him after hours, and he's always been helpful. Rick

Critique? Not likely. Definition is awesome, looks 6" deep. Works of art take time, but I can't wait to see the saddle. Thanks for the post. Rick

Beautiful saddle. I am going to build one soon. What tree did you use? Rick

Scott, I finished my first saddle today. I made some mistakes even using the 'Dusty Johnson' DVD and book. You have come to the right place to start. I just joined today, and wish I had done it sooner. I used most of 3 skirting sides, using the scrap for fillers on the skirts. Good cement and pure Neetsfoot oil seem to dissappear quickly. Rick