Leather Memories
If a mechanic is only as good as his tools, then that goes double for a cowboy and his saddle.
A saddle can be a source of safety for both horse and rider or a huge liability. One of the ways to error towards the safety side is by keeping it well oiled and in good repair. The other day, Sam passed down this tradition to the boys by hauling their saddles and racks in front of our wood stove for a day of leather care.
If possible, find a warm environment. One, you’ll be happier if you can feel your fingers throughout the process. Two, your saddle will take the moisture better and the product will be easier to apply if they’re both warm.
First, they used a slightly damp cloth to knock the dust and mud clumps off. They removed all cinches, ropes, tie strings, etc. Sam even got fancy by removing his horn wrap and putting it in water to soak, cleaning both his horn and adding additional life to his mule hide!
Next, they sprayed the soap over every leather inch of their saddles, including their rope keeps, saddle strings, back billets, etc.
Finally, they rubbed the butter in by hand (finger?), ensuring the leather absorbed all of that natural goodness. If it was not rubbed in, dirt and grim will build up there.
We used a spray-on soap and all-natural butter from Dirty Hands Candle Company in one of their signature scents, Rough Stock. These products were so fun and smelled so good, they started a leather cleaning revolution! Soon, boots and headstalls and anything else they could find was soaped, buttered and left in front of my stove to dry. That’s saying a lot if my 6 and 7-year-old boys are hunting up something to clean!
How much should you order? Well, we are still on our first bottle of soap and only on our second jar of butter for:
1 rough out saddle (they’re notoriously thirsty!)
2 Kids’ Saddles
3 pairs of boots
And whatever other stuff they snuck past me!
Ladies, I also used this on my floral carved day planner cover, bags, etc!
Check out these great products from Layne at Dirty Hands Candle Company and let him know Jess sent you!
