My project for March was to put together a new Dressage saddle. This year I’ve had an ambitious goal to create one saddle per month, and I’m already struggling. (and here we are halfway into April and I have nothing on the workbench, ugh!) But I’m not going to be too hard on myself… I average 1-2 saddles per year and I’m already past that. 3 down, 9 to go! Maybe. 😳
My last Dressage saddle wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t great either. I was hoping to address some of the issues with the new version, and I think I accomplished that. The size, shape and construction are all improved.
I’m especially happy with how it looks from the front. This is always one of my problem areas with saddles!
Of course it’s not perfect, but I think it’s a step in the right direction.
Here it is on my Valegro/Lucien model.
Something I’ve been eager to try is adding a hidden hook and eye closure, to make tacking up easier. The billet straps are attached to the hook, and everything is still adjustable. If I had added elastic to the girth buckles it would be even easier to use.
I’m at the point where I don’t want to spend 20 minutes fiddling with girth buckles, so this makes me happy.
Lastly, here’s a comparison between the two Dressage saddles. Practice makes better, right?
Desktop Stables 
Not perfect of your opinion, but perfect in my opinion!
Absolutely lovely!
What a genius idea! I make 1:20 scale tack, and I will definitely be using that hook and eye trick.
One question: how do you make the top saddle flap so flexible? I’ve always just left off the sweat flap in the past, so never had to worry about it. Thank you!
I used kangaroo leather that’s pretty thin and flexible on it’s own. 🙂 Conditioning the leather with a leather conditioner, like Lexol, can help too.
Thank you!
What a gorgeous saddle – BOTH of them.
Wow! It looks really good! 😀 I especially like the hook and eye closure- genius!
It looks so good! I make miniature Western saddles,but have been wanting to try to make a dressage set do you have any tips for making patterns? Thanks.
Amazing