Back Into Braiding

[Hedge]

Got an order for a set of split reins with a keeper and latigo poppers.The reins are kept to one side so I used

a lighter weight latigo for the poppers just to keep the weight down when she overhauls. 8 plait 'roo over leather

core. They feel like butter in your hands. Hope she likes 'em.

[Thor]

If she doesn't kick her bum. They are very sweet! Wish I could make those. They might be a little too light for me though, as I prefer heavy reins, but these look really nice and one doesn't see these kinds of reins a lot anymore.

How long are they? And how long did it take you to make them?

[Basically Bob]

Nice work, for sure!

[bgl500]

Very impressive.

[oltoot]

Very nice work but this little caveat from personal experience. It makes for a puzzle in design but any kind of knot on the end of braided split reins can be unpleasant if reins slip clear through your hands and makes for undesirable catching when layed over something. All that said, I still would not trade back to regular reins especially when I figure out a best of both worlds way to finish ends.

[Tramps Leatherworking]

Very nice!

[Hedge]

If she doesn't kick her bum. They are very sweet! Wish I could make those. They might be a little too light for me though, as I prefer heavy reins, but these look really nice and one doesn't see these kinds of reins a lot anymore.

How long are they? And how long did it take you to make them?

Thanks, Thor. Yeah, most braided reins are simpler 3 and 5 plait flat braid. I prefer to do this style.

They're 71/2 feet long. As far as time...if you weren't a fellow leather worker, I'd say 10 years (developing technique, skill and learning) .) But, between you and me, about a week.

Nice work, for sure!

Thanks, Bob.

Very impressive.

Thank you, bgl500.

[Hedge]

Very nice work but this little caveat from personal experience. It makes for a puzzle in design but any kind of knot on the end of braided split reins can be unpleasant if reins slip clear through your hands and makes for undesirable catching when layed over something. All that said, I still would not trade back to regular reins especially when I figure out a best of both worlds way to finish ends.

Thanks, oltoot.

Understand the issue but, can't get away from that problem if you put poppers on the end. You can create a blunt end without knots but it doubles the length of your strings.

Yeah, once you've had a good set of braided reins, it's hard to go back.

Very nice!

Thanks, Tramps.

[Jon P]

WOW!! Great work!!