FarmersWife Report post Posted January 24 I would like to build my mammoth sized donkey a show halter, and was wondering if anyone knew what is inside the rolled throatlatch of a show halter that helps it keep it's shape? I'm guessing it must be some sort of wire, but I didn't want to just throw anything in because I believe some metals react and change the leather color. Copper seemed like it might be a good choice. Does anyone have any suggestions on what I could use? Thank you. Amy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TomE Report post Posted January 24 The traditional way is to wrap a leather cover around a leather filler. I outlined the process in this forum. https://www.leathercraftmasterclass.com/forum-1/leathercraft-techniques/rolled-leather-strap. Here's an example: Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
FarmersWife Report post Posted January 25 (edited) TomE - Thank you very much for the reply and link, it was very helpful! That is an absolutely gorgeous halter you made. Would the rolled leather fit up and stay formed into the jowl/throatlatch area like this one?: I'm not sure if that "sculpted" effect is made with water or a wire - I don't have one that stays formed to take apart. Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge. I appreciate your time! Amy Edited January 25 by FarmersWife Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TomE Report post Posted January 25 The throatlatches I've seen in that shape feel like they're solid leather to me. Haven't taken one apart. After shaping the rolled throatlatch in a rein rounder you can bend it into a shape and it will hold the shape fairly well when dry. Steinke ("Bridlework" book) mentions using an insulated multistrand wire for smaller rolled pieces. It needs to have some flexibility. I'd be concerned about a single conductor copper wire being too ductile. My money is on an all leather rolled strap giving you the best result. I'm going to post my complete methods for making a halter in this forum shortly. Would welcome your feedback. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Goldshot Ron Report post Posted January 26 Tom, I looked at your instructions for the rounded throatlatch, and find your method very helpful. Your halter looks very professional, and I will certainly use your tutorial. I cannot tell you how many attempts of rounded throatlatches have found their way into my trash. Thank you, Ron Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TomE Report post Posted January 26 (edited) 1 hour ago, Goldshot Ron said: Tom, I looked at your instructions for the rounded throatlatch, and find your method very helpful. Your halter looks very professional, and I will certainly use your tutorial. I cannot tell you how many attempts of rounded throatlatches have found their way into my trash. Thank you, Ron Thanks, Ron. I recall (?) you giving me tips for sewing close to hardware. Glad to return the favor. This rolled throatlatch is based on Al Stohlman's method for handle #17 in his case making book vol. 2. @bruce johnson supplied the rein rounder. Edited January 26 by TomE Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Goldshot Ron Report post Posted January 26 Tom, That is one of Al Stohlman's books I do not have. My rounding method is basically self-taught. And, because I do not make rounded pieces very often, it is "hit and miss" when I do. One question, and I apologize if you mentioned and I didn't read your article well enough, but what is the finished diameter of your throatlatch when finished? My rounder's largest hole is 1/2 inch. Thanks, Ron Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TomE Report post Posted January 26 10 hours ago, Goldshot Ron said: One question, and I apologize if you mentioned and I didn't read your article well enough, but what is the finished diameter of your throatlatch when finished? My rounder's largest hole is 1/2 inch. The finished rounds are right at 1/2" diameter. I start shaping with a 5/8" or larger hole. Al Stohlman mentions the idea of using a heavy strap of leather clamped in a vise as a substitute for a rounder. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
FarmersWife Report post Posted January 26 TomE - I am going to try the all leather approach. I appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions in detail. Thank you! Amy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TomE Report post Posted January 26 @FarmersWife you’re welcome. Will be interested in how it goes. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
