In this article, you will learn how to make a saddle blanket from scratch and learn a thing or two about this lovely blanket.
If you are one of the lucky few who gets to own a horse, that is a major privilege. Riding one is surely an exciting experience to have.
However, if we don’t take care of our horses properly, their backs might get irritated because of their own saddles.
Create a saddle blanket today by following the simple steps within this article.
Why Is It Called A Saddle Blanket?
This blanket comes in many names, such as “saddle pad” and “saddle cloth.”
They are called like this because they are commonly used under the saddle to reduce the weight on the horse’s back.
A blanket of this kind is also made to absorb moisture – horse’s sweat to be exact.
It is also made so that your horses will be comfortable with both short and long travels. The blanket will prevent them from having their skins scarred from the saddles.
These blankets come in many forms and styles as well. Some examples are the wool, Navajo, and Equestrian style saddle blanket.
They are not only for relieving weight, but also for adding colours to the riding rack.
Required Materials To Make A Saddle Blanket
- Wool
- Measuring tape
- Chalk
- Scissors
- Thread
- Sewing machine
- Needle
- Embroidery thread
Step-By-Step Guide On How To Make A Saddle Blanket
Making a saddle blanket might take a lot of work, but it is not that complicated.
Wools are the most recommended fabric when making a saddle blanket because it’s easy to work with.
These are the steps to make your saddle blanket.
Step #1. Marking
Lay the fabric on a flat surface and make some measurements. Mark a 34-inch to 36-inch rectangle using fabric chalk.
Step #2. Cutting
Cut the marked area in the fabric using a scissor. Make sure to cut the sides straightly. You can now sew the edges of your blanket with a blanket stitch.
Step #3. Locking
You need to thread your needle with 6 strands, and the threads should be 20-inches long each.
Make a knot at the end of your thread. Start off with a blanket stitch on the edges of your fabric.
Inset your needle from back to the front of the fabric with a distance of ¼ inch to the edge.
Make a stitch around and up through the edges of the blanket to lock the thread.
Step #4. Sewing
Sew again from the back, then bring it over and back again from the side, towards the diagonal stitch from the first step.
To form your first blanket stitch, you should loop the excess thread under the needle and pull the thread to the blanket.
Move another ¼ inch and repeat the process.
You must sew the blanket all the way through the other side of the fabric, and then you’ll have your saddle blanket.
Fabrics Used To Make Saddle Blanket
Since the blankets have many variations, there are also different fabrics you can use.
For this blanket, the usual fabrics used are wool, cotton and even synthetic ones.
However, in making a saddle blanket, it is mostly recommended to use wool because of its comfortable characteristics.
Wools tend to be the perfect material for this type of blanket.
Some people choose to have a thin blanket and just fold it if needed, and some prefer a thick blanket that is doubled up.
Choosing your saddle blanket also depends on the thickness and size of your saddle.
How To Take Care Of Your Saddle Blanket?
A saddle blanket, whether it is bought or homemade, should be treated well with respect.
It is important to know how to take care of your saddle blanket to preserve its life and comfortability.
Every few days, you can dust your saddle blanket by brushing it or just slapping it on your door, a wall, or a pipe.
Every 2 or 3 months, you can wash your blanket in a tub with cold water, leave it for less than an hour, and wring it in and out of the water.
Then, hang the blanket on a rail, brush it gently while it’s wet, and let it dry.
After it dries, make sure to slap it against the door or a pole to make it look brand new.
Conclusion
A lot of people love experiencing that majestic feeling when riding a horse for some of their travels and tours.
However, not every one of us can manage to take care of our horses while having our usual stroll.
As much as we would like to feel comfortable, our riding buddies need to feel loved and nurtured as well. This is where saddle blankets come in.
Now that you have learned how to make a saddle blanket, you can reduce the chances of scars and irritation for your horses.
Go out on a ride and spend time with your buddies with this helpful accessory!