Make Your Own Custom Saddle at JS Saddlery!

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 workschedule 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 ot complete my saddle? It will take 6-7 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 andthe 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.

CanI 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 on my own after the class? I'll be the first 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.

"James - I just wanted to thank you so very much for my week with you last August. I ride my saddle often and have had some very nice compliments on it. It was so very nice to be accepted into your shop, family, and friends." Larry Carter - Dallas, TX

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:

	Quality ~ Craftsmanship ~ Workmanship