sad·dler

/ˈsad(ə)lər/


A saddler is a skilled craftsman who specializes in making, repairing, and maintaining saddles and other leather goods, particularly those used for horseback riding and equestrian activities. The term can also refer to someone who creates leather items like harnesses, bridles, and bags.

Saddlers work with various types of leather and use tools such as stitching needles, awls, and knives to cut, shape, and stitch the leather into functional and often decorative items. In addition to saddle-making, a saddler may also be responsible for customizing saddles to fit specific horses and riders, ensuring comfort, safety, and durability.

In some cases, a saddler may also work with other types of leather goods like luggage, belts, and holsters, but their primary expertise is in equestrian equipment.


In The Shop with Emmet Saddlery


In the heart of the American West, the tradition of saddle-making is a revered art form—one passed down through generations. At Emmet Saddlery, this craftsmanship reaches its pinnacle with the creation of the saddles awarded to the champions of the World Famous Miles City Bucking Horse Sale

Artisan in a dark cap and red apron carefully works at a leather crafting table.

Jon Rafel, preparing leather to be apart of the saddle

Jon Rafel and his crew, gathered us in his workshop one morning to show us how to build a custom bucking horse saddle. He started by selecting thick, quality leather, explaining how important it was for strength and flexibility. After cutting the leather pieces, he shaped the saddle tree, ensuring it could handle the pressure of a bucking horse. He then stitched the pieces together, demonstrating how every stitch needed to be tight and precise. As he finished, the saddle took shape, strong and durable. By the end of the day, we had learned not just the steps, but the skill and care it takes to craft a saddle built for the toughest rides.

Decorative brass stamp with ornate pattern sits on wooden surface next to crafting tools.
Craftsperson in protective gear works meticulously on leather piece at workbench.
Close-up of hand holding vintage metal letterpress stamp in dramatic black and white lighting.
Artisan with long white beard concentrates on leather work at crafting table.

Each saddle is handcrafted, combining time-honored techniques with the finest materials. From the shaping of the leather to the engraving of the small details, every step is a testament to the skill and dedication of Emmet Saddlery’s artisans. These saddles are not only functional pieces of gear but also represent the spirit of the rodeo and the legacy of the Bucking Horse Sale.

Silhouette of craftsperson leaning over workbench in dimly lit workshop.
Detailed tooled leather design featuring intricate floral and geometric patterns.
Two artisans inspect and work on detailed leather saddle in workshop.

We had a fantastic time Jon Rafel and his crew as they walked us through the process of crafting a custom bucking horse saddle, step by step. From selecting the leather to stitching everything together, Jon’s expertise and passion were evident. The hands-on experience and insight into the craft were unforgettable, and we left with a deeper appreciation for saddle-making. If you'd like to learn more about their work, be sure to visit Emmet Saddlery on Facebook.

Black and white image of leather workshop wall with hanging tools and Runnels Saddlery jacket.