Fleece

[Saddlebag]

One of the main functions of fleece is to prevent the saddle pad from scooting out from beneath. Real fleece acts as a bit of a stiffener and provides a modicum of cushioning. During WW1, when sheep wool was so in demand, saddles were fleeced with various other hides with the hair on, some even with the blue felt. The fleece is showing how the tree wasn't a real good fit for the horse, a little narrow at the top of the bars. IMO you haven't shown us anything that really needs attention altho it is nice to have it looking 100%.

[WyomingSlick]

------ The fleece is showing how the tree wasn't a real good fit for the horse, a little narrow at the top of the bars. ---------

Another possibility for the fleece wear is that the saddle was stored on a stand/rack that was made out of rough wood and years of sliding the saddle on, and off the rack, contributed to the fleece wearing away. The saddle racks on my grandads ranch had wool stuffed pads made from feedsacks for this very reason.

Edited March 30, 2014 by WyomingSlick

[shanlaw1]

When hand stitching the fleece, how do you prevent the wool form getting bunched up under the stitch to obtain tighter stitching?

[oltoot]

2 things, trim or clip wool just to the point that you will want it when finished then plain ol water. Keep the wool soaked just around the edges as you sew and you will be able to easily part it with your fingers as you go. Masking tape is also helpful. The pad still gets my vote.

[Saddlebag]

I had did new skirts once, and once it has remained. My big old Pearson does a great job when it comes to refleecing skirts.