Quality   ~   Craftsmanship   ~  Workmanship

    PO Box 309   7931 Highway 180 West   Cliff, New Mexico   88028

Use our Phone Number to Ask About Saddle Making Course Dates
 575-535-4889
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History and Tradition of JS Saddlery
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

  
custom saddles and leather accessories include saddles, breast collars, head stalls, saddle bags, tapaderos, gun rigs, rifle scabbards, gun bags, ammo bags, belts, spur straps, reins saddle making clases

Custom Saddle Making Classes at JS Saddlery

 

Have you ever wanted to make your own custom saddle?  Well, here you are!  JS Saddlery offers a "one on one" custom saddle making class that can be tailored around your work schedule or your days off. 

The average class is approximately 50 hours long, depending on your own ability.  When the saddle class is finished,  you will leave with a saddle that you personally made.  We'll also provide you with a few extra tools for doing basic repairs as well as any extra leather that was not used during class. Here are some of your most frequently asked question on the saddle class:

 

  
 

How long will it take to complete my saddle?

  
  It will take 6 to 7 days to finish your new saddle.  
   
  How many hours will it take?  
 
You will have 50 hours into your saddle making project, working from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Because we are a working saddle shop, there may be an occasional phone call or customer stopping in, but interruptions are kept to a minimum.
  
   
  What will I learn?  
 
We will begin from the ground up with a bare tree and two sides of leather. You will learn where/how to cut the different parts of the saddle from the two sides of leather, how they are applied to the saddle tree and the overall finishing/customizing of your saddle.
  
   
  What kind of saddle can I make?  
 
I have over 20 years worth of western saddle making experience. I like to talk to the students, finding out what your preferences are.
  
   
  When can I start my class?  
 
I work with one student at a time, so classes can be scheduled to meed your time needs. Please keep in mind that we use Bowden Saddle Tree Company and it can take up to 10 weeks when ordering a custom saddle tree. There are "stock" trees which you can view on their website. "Stock" trees ship in two weeks.
  
   
  Can I take my saddle home?  
 
Yes! It is your saddle. Along with the saddle, you will take any tools and extra left over leather.
  
   
  Is there a deposit required?  
 
Yes. We require a deposit of $700 in order to schedule your class. This allows me to order the saddle tree, leather and tools that are provided.
  
   
  Where are you located?  
 
We are 35 minutes north of Silver City, NewMexico. Below is a list of lodging options.
  
   
  Can I build a saddle onmy own after the class?  
 
I'll be the fiest to tell you there is a lot to learn! I recommend that you take very good notes and as many photos as possible. If you decide to start a saddle after you leave my class, you are more than welcome to call or email me with any questions you might have. I will try to work you through the problem you are having.
  
   
   

Comfortable, convenient accommodations can be arranged by contacting:

 

Double E Guest Ranch in Gila, NM. The telephone number is: 575-535-2048. Just 20 minutes from JS Saddlery. Option to eat prepared meals at the ranch (breakfast and dinner) can be included in your rate. For an additional fee, spend an afternoon horseback riding!

 

 

 

The Gila River House in Gila, NM.  The telephone number is:  575-535-2383. A new and fully equipped kitchen with a full size refrigerator and cooking range, microwave, coffee maker, blender, toaster provide you with everything you'll need to self-cater;  two large bedrooms / two full baths, washing machine, telephone, answering machine, satellite TV and VCR, stereo system (CD, tape player and radio with NPR), barbecue grill, yard furniture, linens and privacy.

 

The Holiday Inn Express in Silver City, NM: 1103 Superior Street. Hotel Front Desk: 1-575-538-2525 | Hotel Fax: 1-575-538-2525

Here is a list of items you will be provided with for your custom saddle making class:

Custom Saddle Tree Provided by Bowden Saddle Tree Company

  • 1 Bull Hide Covered Tree

  • 2 Sides of Heavy Skirting Leather

  • 1 Closed Cell Foam Rubber

  • 8 Saddle Strings

  • 1 3/4 Bark Tanned Sheepskin

  • 1 Set of Rigging (Front and Rear)

  • 1 Pair of Blevins Improved Buckles

  • 2 Breast Collar Dees

  • 1 Metal Seat Strainer

  • 1 pair Wood Metal-Bound Stirrups

  • 1 1/2 # Saddle Tacks

  • 1 1/2 # Nails

  • 1 1/2 Gallon Neat's Foot Oil

  • 1 Bar Saddle Glycerin

  • Buckles for Breast Collar, Headstall and Flank Cinch

Tools You Keep After the Class:

  • 1 Saddle Tack Hammer

  • 1 Rivet Setter

  • 1 Pro Rotary Punch

  • 1 Safety Beveller and Extra Blades

  • 1 Angled Utility Knife

  • 1 4-in-1 Awl Set

  • 1 Pack of Sewing Needles

  • 2 Spools of Thread

With these items, YOU can build a custom saddle that will last you the rest of your life!  All this for only

$1695.00!

Give me a call or email for more information.  Thanks - James Sturgeon

 

Updated:March 2009