ibonn Report post Posted September 19, 2008 After reading along for a few weeks, I registered recently. I was very surprised to find so many inspiring and creative soulmates on the web. Last April I joined a Basic Bridle course here in Holland, set up by a Saddle Fitting course and the world opend to me. This was what I was looking for and I actually cried at the end of it as I knew this was a life changing week for me. Next week, I'll join the 2nd course in which we will make a made-to-measure bridle (to make bespoke bridles). I guess you know by now, I'm not into the western saddles but into the stiff English tack but as a hobby I try to carve some small items. Not very succesfull tough What really has my interest is braiding, I want to use the authentic braiding techniques in modern horse tack such as halters, breast collars etc. I have set up a small business for the repairs of horse tack and I want to specialise in making bridles for very small pony's such as Shetlanders or Welsh pony's but also for the very big breeds. Besides all this, I also make braided dog collars. Within a few years, I hope to become a registered saddler who can make saddles for horses with a problem or disabled riders, therefore, I plann a couples of visits to my teacher Philip Howard of Saddlery Training Scotland. Early october, I'll launch my website so more info will be found there. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rdb Report post Posted September 19, 2008 Welcome ibonn! Well, You've come to the right place to help you in launching your new career. Sounds like you are getting the proper training, and definitely have the enthusiasm. There's always something to learn right here on the Forum, and it seems you will have a lot to share, so we are very glad you found us. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TomSwede Report post Posted September 19, 2008 Welcome aboard ibonn! Glad to have you found us! We sure have some great western saddle makers here and lot's of good carvers and moe so whatever you're looking to get into I'm sure you can find help here. We love to see pics! Tom Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
King's X Report post Posted September 20, 2008 Welcome to the forum and be prepared to gain a wealth of knowledge. Greetings from Austin, Texas, USA Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BillB Report post Posted September 20, 2008 ibonn, Welcome to the forum. The forum is not only a great place to learn but also to share. You will find a diverse set of good folks here all interested in keeping leather crafts and this art form alive and well. Even us "old dogs" are interested in "learning new tricks". I look forward to seeing something like a english saddle with celtic art work carved in it. BillB. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Pip Report post Posted September 20, 2008 I find braiding fascinating but alas don't have the fingers for it..... There are some very skilled people here and some not as skilled beginners like myself all of have questions and answers so fire away with both. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Leerwerker Report post Posted September 21, 2008 Welkom Ibonn! Hier is weliswaar baie inspirasie te vinde! Jy sal ons moet wys wat jy maak! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Don101 Report post Posted September 23, 2008 Hi ibonn welcome to the forum, Don Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Rolf Report post Posted September 28, 2008 Hi ibonn - welcome to the forum. I very interested to visit a saddle making course/training - can you please send me the adress of your teacher? Thank you very much! Regards from Switzerland Rolf Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
