A couple Western bits-

A recent post on Blab inspired me to give a go at making my own western bits… out of a cereal box! I really love being able to make things from stuff around the house, especially hobby-related stuff.

I’ve been making my own English bits for a while now. Snaffles and D-ring snaffles are so simple and easy. You just need wire or jump rings, and a couple silver seed beads. I’ve been stumped on the western bits though.

Rio Rondo sells both etched and cast  bits, which are very popular on miniature tack. I really love the way they look, but I wanted to find another option. Basically I wanted to make bits myself, so I don’t have to spend the money. Gosh I’m cheap.

ANYWAY,

Here’s the result:

Ok- WHY did I want to make my own bits again? This was another one of my ideas that was easier said then done.

It was made out of cardboard from a cereal box. I didn’t have any silver paint, but I DID have a bottle of “chrome” nailpolish in my room (me and my crazy nailcolors, LOL) which worked nicely. The picture doesn’t show it very well, but it has a nice shine to it. Not too much, but just enough. The “paint” made the cardboard alot more stiff, which is nice because it was way too flexible for my liking before.

My attempt also looks rather sloppy, especially where the headstall and reins attach. I had some issues cutting out those tiny holes. I’ve also realized that I MUST invest in a nice set of exacto knives sometime in the future!

Hey, it was a first attempt, you know. 😀

While I was at it, I tried making another style I had seen on the horses in my State Line Tack catalog. (years old, but the pictures are perfect for reference!)

I believe this is called a Futurity bit or a Transition bit? I don’t know anything about it so I’m not sure if it’s sutible for everyday western riding with any horse. I’ve seen it on models a few times, but not often, so I wonder…

I’m happier with this one then the first though. Obviously I won’t be showing them any time soon, but they’ll work for photos, once I get the bridles done, that is!

It’s definately easier to buy pre-made hardware and bits, but for some reason, making my own is a lot more satisfying. 🙂