Advice on building my first saddle

[Timbo]

I looked it up and don't remember the exact price but it was waaaaayyy out of my reach. I am sure it would be priceless for the info it contains, I just can't afford priceless. I think the advice on buying the saddle tree is good and I'll probably do that. Its easier to picture how things work when you have something besides pictures to look at.

thanks

tim

[Hidemechanic]

What you pay for a tree is about half what you would pay for JW's vids, you ought to hang in a little longer and save for the vids.

I hate to think how much you'll spend on leather to get your first tree done learning on your own.

Don't know that the subject has come up for you yet but you will likely spend a good 450-500 bucks on leather(the good stuff)plus your hardware and what, 200 for your tree? Don't know what Bowden sells their kit for but either way just your materials for your first saddle is probably going to run a big chunk-o-change(does sound familiar now).GH

[Cowboy Crafts Online]

Before the crash I started a list of basic tools that someone would need to build a saddle. If I can get some time I will try to start up the tread again with what I think you would need. I would advise anyone on starting a saddle for their first major project be aware that you are going to have I would say at least $2000.00 invested with materials and basic tools.

Some might think that Jeremiah's DVD's are out of reach, but they will save you a lot of head ache. I worked in a saddle shop for 3 yrs, before I built my first saddle. If you do not have any one there to coach you, I would raise the cost of the saddle to $2500, if your as picky as me. On the other hand you can build a saddle with a pocket knife and a hole punch, but are you going to be happy with it, ie" looks and fit"

That is just my 2 cents

Ashley

[jwwright]

I sure agree with Ashley. Before I built my first complete saddle, I had spent 30 years making my living horseback, 15 years making tack and chaps, plus doing saddle repairs. I had also spent a winter working in a saddle shop. While studying and preparing to build that first saddle, I purchased videos from Jeremiah Watt and Bruce Cheney.......and the Stohlman series of books. I found all helpful, but probably the Watt videos and the Stohlman books the most. Good pointers here as well, and I got helpful ideas visiting with established makers, like Ashley. My advice is to save and/or find the money to buy the Watt dvds and Stohlman books. There's 5 cents worth, adjusted for inflation.

[timjtodd]

Timbo,

I built my first saddle just using Dusty Johnson's book and video with no prior saddle making/repair experience or outside help. It is not the prettiest thing and I will definitely do some things different on my next one, but it is a good using saddle that has held up well. If you're wanting to get your feet wet and get one built this is a good route to go. At least it was for me.