First Saddle Bags, What Do I Need To Consider?

[Indy]

Hi there,

I got an inquiry for a pair of saddle bags for a continental saddle. The saddle bags are not going to be very fancy in optic, they just need to match the saddle nice.

Since it is my first project for western equistrian I could use some tipps and hints from you guys.

Here is the saddle back itself:

- how should the bags be made to tie them onto the saddle properly? Do I need to unscrew the conchos in the back to install some heavy laces?

- the collour should be of the same collour. Do I need to seal the bags in a speccial way or am I fine with a treatment of oilive oil and leather bees wax balm?

- what else do I need to consider?

Any thoughts of riders or saddle makers would be of great help!

thank you

[Tinneal]

Well, first of all the only why to securely anchor the bags to the back of the saddle, will be to take the screw conchos off the back, and put the bags in between the conchos and the saddle skirt... its not the best way, but I've done it for customers before. If anyone else has any better suggestions, I'd LOVE to hear them!

The other option is to replace the back conchos with slotted ones, and instal strings - but to do that properly would involve drilling through the tree.

Also, its a good idea to anchor the bags down to the back cinch, so they don't flap around.

As for treatment, I'd dye them as close as possible, then oil then lightly (they will darken...) then i usually use atoms wax...

You need to consider:

- What will they be using the bags for? Long weekend rides, or a few hours out? Long weekend rides need strong and durable bags, with better treatments. Weekend "ditch rides" can get away with a tad less quality and more money into it looking pretty... but I all comes down to a compromise between what you're willing to put out there, with your name on it, and what the customer is willing to pay for, and wants.

- What will they be keeping in the bags - so you know what sizes

- What type of closure do they want? Buckles? Snaps? Ties?

- How do they value aesthetics vs function?

- HOW MUCH ARE THEY WILLING TO SPEND