How to Make a Pulled Wool Saddle Pad DIY Instructional PDF
PDF instructional telling you all you need to know to make your very own pulled wool saddle pad! The photos in the listing are just examples of what you can make. This PDF includes detailed instructions along with how-to photos to help you follow along. It also includes a list of sources where you can purchase rug canvas, tools, and wool. I have personally tested wool from multiple fiber mills in the USA and abroad. The wool sources included in this PDF are ones I have used myself and carefully selected to make sure the wool top is the highest quality specifically for making pulled wool pads. Additional coupon codes are included to help you get the best price possible! Build your first pad for as little as $120 in materials. No need for an overpriced starter kit that takes weeks to arrive! Download is available immediately and depending on the source you can get your wool shipped to your door in under a week. Also included is information on different wool breeds and why or why not they are recommended for making a pulled wool pad. Additionally there are links to pad maker groups on social media, links to helpful videos, and info on how to clean and care for your pad. The PDF then moves on to talk about advanced techniques such as felting brands onto your saddle pad and tackling more complicated patterns. This is guaranteed to be the most in depth and comprehensive pulled wool saddle pad making tutorial out there!
If you would like to order a paper copy please contact me.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you take custom orders?
Yes, send me a message for a quote. Prices start at $350 for a solid white pulled wool pad and go up from there based on color and design complexity. Mohair cinches start at $125 for a basic working cinch and go up to $175 depending on amount of colors, design complexity, and hardware choices. I can also make dressage girths for $135. For customs I require 50% upfront. For customs that will require a specific brand, initials, or other specific personalization I require full payment up front.
What are the benefits of pulled wool saddle pads?
These pads are super breathable, thermoregulating, and durable. They are made of wool roving latched onto a cotton canvas for a completely natural pad. These pads can be completely customized in terms of size, thickness, and color.
What are the benefits of mohair?
Mohair is very hard wearing and nicknamed the "diamond fiber". It will not stretch or teal heat the way synthetic cinches do and it will not stretch out over time. Mohair is moisture wicking and breathable and gently expands and contracts with your horse's ribcage. It is great for horses that sore easily or have sensitive skin.
How do I measure for a mohair cinch?
Measure from buckle end from buckle end. Do not trust the label as mass produced cinches can measure differently by brand or may stretch out over time. Mohair will not stretch out but will give a half inch to an inch when cinched up and as the knots settle. Order to the nearest inch. For instance if you ride in either a 28" or a 30" you can order a 29" from me.
What size pulled wool saddle pad is best for me?
30x30 or 30x32 is usually ideal. Oversized pads and even pads as small as 32x32 can wear out prematurely near the cinch area and cause fit issues. 30x30 will fit most standard saddles and 30x32 will work better for longer skirted saddles or riders who want more of the design to be visible while riding. Traditionally, these pads were intended to be around the same length as the saddle skirt to prevent wear, stuck pine needles and debris, etc.
How do I care for my pulled wool saddle pad?
Rotating your pad after each wear can help your pad to break in evenly. Store the pad away from rodents or barn kitties who might be attracted to the fiber. Keep your pad out of direct sunlight when possible. To wash, use wool lite or a similar soap and cold water and hand to air dry. Use a regular hose - not a power wash style attachment - to clean, and using too much force can cause uneven felting. If riding in areas with a lot of bramble and stickers it is recommended to put a blanket over your saddle pad to protect it.
How do I care for my mohair tack?
Brush off any sort, debris, etc and swish your cinch in a bucket of cool water. You can add wool lite for a deeper clean. Allow to dry out of direct sunlight.
Do pulled wool pads help with saddle fit?
No, pulled wool pads are not a solution for improper saddle fit or a substitute for using a qualified fitter. Pulled wool pads will compress down about halfway, so a 2" pulled wool pad will be equivalent to about a 1" felt pad, a 1.5" pad will be equivalent to a .75" felt pad, etc. Provided your saddle fits properly you should buy a pulled wool pad that is equivalent to your current pad. Often times people run into fit issues when they are using too thick of a felt pad to compensate for a saddle that is too wide and then transition to a pulled wool pad that is thinner. If you have any fit specific questions you can send me photos of your current set up and I will try to guide you.
Do you accept returns?
We do not accept returns on custom orders. For other items, returns are handled on a case by case basis. Items must be unused and free from horse hair and dirt to be eligible for return. The buyer is responsible for paying the return shipping.
Where are your items made?
All our items are handmade in the USA with the exception of our colored dressage bridles.
