June 2013
The Leather Retailers’ and Manufacturers’ Journal
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Hans Biglajzer The Best English Saddle Maker
Specials & Closeouts!
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The Leather Retailers’ and Manufacturers’ Journal
Table of Contents
Shop Talk! WITH BOOT & SHOE NEWS
Laugh Lines..........................................................................6 Specials & Closeouts..........................................................9 Hide Report........................................................................23 Boot & Shoe News............................................................35 Hans Biglajzer....................................................................42
Advertising
Classifieds............................................................................59
Deadline for advertising copy is the 5th of the month prior to the month of publication. Invoices are due upon receipt. SHATA members who display the SHATA logo in their advertisement receive a 5% discount on display ads. 6 or 12-month prepaid advertising contracts receive a 5% discount. Discounts may not be combined (advertisers may receive either a SHATA discount or a prepaid contract discount).
Cartoon................................................................................61
Classified Ads
Treeless Saddle..................................................................46 News, Notes & Queries...................................................53
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Setup Charge Shop Talk! is published monthly (ISSN 1547-0121) by Proleptic, Inc. Subscription rates are $36 annually, $39 (US) for Canada and Mexico, and $54 (US) for all other countries. Shop Talk! is the official monthly publication of the Saddle, Harness, and Allied Trades Association (SHATA). SHATA members receive a $4 discount on annual subscriptions. For more information on subscriptions, advertising rates, or SHATA membership, contact:
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Recycling old magazines, catalogs, and newspapers is one of the easiest ways to help the environment. To increase the supply of recoverable wood fiber and to reduce the demand on regional landfills, Shop Talk! urges its readers to support recycling efforts in their communities. Shop Talk! is printed only with inks made from vegetable oil.
Shop Talk!
published by Proleptic, Inc. P.O. Box 17817 Asheville, NC 28816 email: shoptalk@proleptic.net
Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
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Laugh Lines Two overeducated city slickers went on a fishing trip. They rented all the equipment possible—the reels, the rods, the wading suits, a rowboat, a car, and even a cabin in the woods. I mean they spent a fortune! The first day they go fishing but they don’t catch anything. The same thing happened on the second day and on the third day. It went on like that until finally, on the last day of their vacation, one of the men caught a fish! As they drove home both men were deeply depressed. One guy turned to the other and said, “Do you realize that this one lousy fish we caught cost us eighteen hundred bucks?” His buddy said, “Wow! Then it’s good we didn’t catch any more!”
did the fish say when it a Q: What concrete wall? A: Dam! do you communicate Q: How with a fish? A: Drop it a line! 6 |
Q: Whatsaydidtoonethehillbilly other? I got a new fly A: rod and reel for my
wife—it’s the best trade I ever made!
A mother’s advice to her daughter:
Cook a man a fish and you feed him for a day. But teach a man to fish and you get rid of him for the whole weekend.
Q: Why are fish so smart? A: Because they swim in schools. Q: How do fish go into business? A: They start on a small scale. do you call a fish without Q: What an eye? A: fsh
June 2013
Shop Talk!
One day
a rather inebriated ice fisherman drilled a hole in the ice and peered down into the hole and a loud voice said, “There are no fish down there!” The man walked several yards away and drilled another hole and peered down into the hole and again the voice said, “There are no fish down there!” The man then walked about fifty yards away and drilled another hole and once again the voice said, “There are no fish down there!”
The Lure A couple young boys were fishing at their special pond off the beaten track when all of a sudden the Game Warden jumped out of the bushes! One of the boys threw his rod down as quick as lightning and started running like a wild rabbit through the woods but the Warden was hot on his tail.
So the drunken fisherman staggered a little, lifted his head up towards the sky, and asked quizzically, “God? Is that you?”
After a good long ways the boy stopped and stooped over with hands on his knees, trying to catch his breath. He was pretty winded which is why the Game Warden finally caught up with him.
“No, you idiot!” came the loud reply. “It’s the rink manager!”
“Let’s see yer fishin’ license, boy!” the Warden wheezed and coughed.
Timco Corp. Specialists in Decorative Ornamentation Tim O’Hara 1551 Central Street Stoughton, MA 02072 Phone: (781) 821-1041 x. 203 Toll Free: (866) 821-1041 x. 203 Fax: (781) 436-3498 E-mail: tim@timcocorporation.com Web: timcocorporation.com
New: Spot Setter for: New 2013 Parachute Spot New 2013 Rope Edge Spot Plain head 5/16” dia. Spot Sunburst 5/16” dia. Spot 5/16” Faceted Jewel Spot ALL 5 styles can run on just one machine … no need to change dies or adjust machine!
. . . it’s all in the detail Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
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With that the boy pulled out his wallet and gave the Warden a valid permit. “Well, son,” the man said, “you must be about as dumb as a box of rocks! You didn’t have to run from me if you have a license!” “Yes, sir,” the young guy said as he stood up. “But my friend back there, well—he don’t have one.”
do you call a shark with a Q:What rocket launcher? A: Anything he tells you to! are fish so much smarter than Q: Why humans? seen a fish spend a fortune A:Ever trying to hook a human?
Three fishermen were fishing when came
Restores Natural Gloss
upon a mermaid who offered them one wish each so the first fisherman said, “Double my IQ!” So the mermaid did it and to his surprise and delight he started reciting Shakespeare. Then the second fisherman said, “Triple my IQ!” and sure enough the mermaid did it. The man started doing math problems he didn’t know existed. He was amazed! The third fisherman was so impressed that he asked the mermaid to quadruple his IQ.
Whips With Authority! Wholesale
Whips of Quality from Texas and the West. From leather, rawhide, and nylon. Bosals, Quirts, Shooflys, Reins, Riatas, Romals, Mecates, Dog Leashes, Mohair, hatbands, novelties and more. Give us a call. You’ll find our prices hard to beat!
The mermaid asked the fisherman, “Are you sure about that? It will change your whole life!” But the fisherman was positive and said enthusiastically, “Yes! Do it!” So the mermaid turned him into a woman.
PO Box 311448 New Braunfels, TX 78131 Al Ludwig Call: 830-629-0540 Cell: 832-754-6099
www.handplait.com email: ajludwig@handplait.com
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June 2013
Shop Talk!
Deals and Bargains and Real Savings
Dear Friends: This is our annual listing of a whole lot of great specials and closeouts that we’ve received from suppliers from all across the US and we want to say THANK YOU to all the folks who took time from their busy schedules to send us something. It’s greatly appreciated. We always think that this listing is a good thing for everyone involved and a way of showing our appreciation to both our advertisers AND our readers at the same time. Our advertisers get to “clean out their closets” and our readers get to save a few bucks by taking advantage of the discounted products. Everybody wins!
Specials & Closeouts change constantly and offers are good only while supplies last! So don’t delay! Order today!
Enjoy! Bits Clippers Collars Equipment Finished Leather Goods Hardware Horse Healthcare Leather
Rope Shoe/Boot Laces Spots Thread Trees (Western} Vinyl Webbing Western Accessories
While we had hoped for lists from a few more companies, a number of folks reported that they just didn’t have any specials or closeouts on hand. They’re running lean and business is good. There were also a number of folks who wanted to send in a few items but simply did not have the time because they were just that busy! While we admit to some small disappointment, that really is good news for our industry—people are busy! Of course, it goes without saying that inventories
Beiler’s Mfg. & Supply Manufacturing address 290 S. Groffdale Rd. Leola, PA 17540 (717) 656-2179
Main Office & Warehouse 3025 Irishtown Rd. Ronks, PA 17540 (717) 768-0174
Manufacturers of Leather, Nylon or Biothane Products like Halters, Harnesses or other Equine or Pet Related items. Distributors of Harness & Saddlery Hardware. Leather, Leather Oils, Biothane & Nylon Webbing plus other Equine Products. Call us for any custom made Harness or Saddlery Hardware item you may need.
Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
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$37.50
A book every leatherworker should own
save 15% free s + h Reg. $44
Western Saddles Hunting Equipment Halters • Bridles Hobbles • Chaps Breast Collars Pack Equipment and More
Cowboys Complete Saddle Making by John Hopper 100’s of Pictures, Patterns & Measurements Step-by-Setp Instructions • 360 pp. Spiral bound.
“
”
The best saddle making book written to date.
PO Box 17817 Asheville, NC 28816
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Proleptic, Inc. www.proleptic.net
828-505-8474 shoptalk@proleptic.net
June 2013
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Bits Hilltop Tack Supply 133 Welding Dr. Rebersburg, PA 16872 (814) 349-4479 Hilltop Tack Supply is discontinuing its stainless steel bits and is offering 10% off on all remaining inventory, including driving
and riding bits. Contact them for a free catalog.
Clippers Hillside Harness Hdw. 4205 Township Road 629 Millersburg, OH 44654 VM (330) 893-1974 ext. 2 Fax (330) 698-3200
A new feature for the #46 is that it now features full grain veg leather on the face as well as the back and rim which makes it both firmer and more durable.
Equipment Bogle Greenwell Machinery Corp. 3100 E. Main Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (972) 262-8652 www.boglegreenwell.com Randall Union Lockstitches complete with stand and motor. $2,395-2,895 Punch Press Machines. $695-895 Embossing roller machine. $1,795 Hand crank strap cutter for light leather. $495
Wahl Bravura Clippers--$114.95 Wahl Arco Chippers--$99.50 Wahl Pro Series--$43.50 Wahl Pro Ion--$59.50 Also 6% Cash and Carry Sale June 17-21.
Collars Brodhead Collar Shop 17607 200th St. Bloomfield, IA 52537 (515) 830-2596 Brodhead Collar is running a special during the month of June for the AM Scotch Show Collar, the #36 Logging and Pulling Collar, and the #46 Deluxe Pulling Collar. Order four or more collars and receive a 10% discount. Please mention you saw this special offer in Shop Talk!
Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
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Friedlander Sewing Machine Co.
Hand Plait Leather
P O Box 763 Greenlawn, NY 11740 (631) 754-2121 www.friedlandersewing.com
P O Box 311448 New Braunfels, TX 78131 (830) 629-0540 www.handplait.com
Quantity Highlead GC0318-1 top and bottom feed lockstitch with large hook and reverse. Large quantity Seiko CW-8B cylinder arm waling feet with reverse. Quantity of Brother SU-877A-005 with white color walking feet with large hooks, reverse, and auto lubrication. Quantity of Seiko LSW8L (same as CONSEW 255B) walking feet with large hooks, no reverse. Above are available as sewing heads only in “as is” condition.
Several Union Lockstitch machines for sale in very good condition. One for $3,500 and the other for $3,700.
N & A Harness Shop 6009 Township Road 419 Millersburg, OH 44654 (330) 893-1024 While this is not on special it certainly is worth a mention! This is a new 12” Gang Kick Press from the innovative folks at N & A Harness. Self-centering. Punches holes,
Be vewy vewy quiet... we’re hunting
Mushrooms!!!
#1
Tipper: Hey guys, Momma says we get to go on a wilderness adventure today! I can’t wait! ‘Parkles: We’re going to the wilderness??? What in the WORLD are we supposed to do in the wilderness? There are scary animals there!!! Patches: Momma and Kevin are going hunting! Tipper: Hunting?! I didn’t know Kevin was a hunter!
‘Parkles
Tipper
‘Parkles: I don’t want to hunt anything… I like that my food comes from a bag… and Momma’s plate. Besides... I just had my nails done!
Patches
Patches: No silly, they’re going hunting for Morel Mushrooms… and they’re bringing us with them! ‘Parkles: Oh great! So we get to be tick magnets for a day! Just my idea of a fun afternoon! I hope mushrooms are good to eat! Patches: I’m sure they are...And don’t worry about the coyotes...I’m sure they just love dumb little white dogs with painted nails! ‘Parkles: Coyotes?!? What do you mean...coyotes????
(stay tuned for the adventures of ‘Parkles and the Coyote)
SLC...Helping our customers to be successfull by providing supplies, value, and help you can count on! Springfield Leather Company is so much more than just a leather store!
SLC has a huge supply of Odd Lot, Regular Stock, and Program Leathers! Plus, we will cut almost any leather we have for you! Kevin Hopkins “SLC President & Champion Mushroom Hunter”
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Help when you need it!
Got a question? We can answer it! Books, Patterns & Instructions! Sewing Machines & Accessories! “Leather.. is just the beginning!“ Leather Cleaners & Conditioners! Springfield Leather Co. 1463 S. Glenstone Dyes, Stains & Finishes! Springfield, MO 65808 Thread, Lace & Needles! www.springfieldleather.com Tools & Hardware! Largest selection of Beads & Jewelry Making Supplies in the Midwest! 1-800-668-8518
June 2013
Shop Talk!
slots, round ends and English point. Custom bars available.
Nick-O Sew 7745 Hwy 76 S Stanton, TN 8069 (800) 526-4256 (731) 779-9963 www.nickosew.com Nick has a number of rebuilt Juki DNU-141NH walking foot machines for sale--$545 head only, complete for $895. Max thickness is 3/8” and max thread size 138. Great for flat work such as bags, chaps, boot tops, tents, wallets, and belts. Also some good deals on rebuilt Juki DDL5550N and rebuilt Seiko CW-8B S/N cylinder arm machines with reverse.
Finished Leather Goods North Star Leather P O Box 307 Ruby, SC 29741 (800) 338-7637 (843) 634-6262 www.NstarleatherWHSL.com #136 trifold trucker wallet, $6 #138 small trucker wallet, $6.75 #139 large trucker wallet, $8.50 For a complete list of seconds and discounted items visit www.NstarleatherWHSL.com. Includes laced wallets (prison), checkbook covers, credit card holders, pouches, trifolds, cell phone cases, zipper coin purses, and more.
Tex Shoemaker & Sons 131 S. Eucla Ave. San Dimas, CA 91773 (909) 592-2071 www.texshoemaker.com Shop Talk!
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Different overstocked finished leather police and Western products such as holsters, ammo pouches, etc. Please check their eBay site for weekly listings.
Hardware Beiler’s Mfg. & Supply
#49 1” SB bkl. (1800). $.63 ea. $.57 ea. (case). Reg. $.99 ea. #49 1 1/8” SB bkl. (1500). $.68 ea. $61 ea. (case). Reg. $1.21 ea. #49 1 ¼” SB bkl. (1500). $.81 ea. $.73 ea. (case). Reg. $1.43 ea. The #49 buckles are SB with SS tongues. Good quality except are slightly shorter or larger diameter rollers than our regular stock #49 buckles.
3025 Irishtown Rd. Ronks, PA 17572 (717) 768-0174 #19223 7/8” SS twin loops. $.55 ea. $.50 ea. (case). Reg. $.67 ea. #50193 7/8” SS buckle. $.55 ea. $.50 ea. (case). Reg. $.77 ea. #13203 7/8” SS buckle. $.51 ea. $.46 ea. (case). Reg. $1 ea. #49 ¾” SB bkl. (1100). $.38 ea. $.34 ea. (case). Reg. $.77 ea.
Buena Vista Blankets 5857 Buena Vista Rd. Gap, PA 17527 (717) 442-0164 Buena Vista has gotten out of the halter, neck rope, and lead rope business and has boxes of discounted hdw. for sale which includes NP thimbles, rope clamps, halter hdw., rings, and buckles.
Nick-O Sewing Machine, LLC • 7745 Hwy 76 S. • Stanton, TN 38069 www.Nickosew.com • Nick@Nickosew.com 1-800-526-4256 • Ph: (731) 779-9963 • Fx: (731) 779-9965
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June 2013
Shop Talk!
Hillside Harness Hdw. 4205 Township Road 629 Millersburg, OH 44654 VM (330) 893-1974 ext. 2 Fax (330) 698-3200 Welded breeching dees SS 1 ¾”. $.78 ea. #210 1 1/8” SS. $.55 ea.
Tex Shoemaker & Sons 131 S. Eucla Ave. San Dimas, CA 91773 (909) 592-2071 www.texshoemaker.com Boxes and boxes of obsolete hdw. and supplies. Inventory includes 2” CB belt buckles, $1.50 ea. PR24 black baton ring with post, $2 ea. Orcut lg. hvy. duty clip, $1.50 ea. Long spring measures 4 ¾” ring to ring. ¼” wide. $.50 ea. Slide metal buckle 2”, $.50 ea. Tuck locks with holes for rivets, $.75 ea.
MANUFACTURING W Farm & Buggy Collars W Adjustable Top Collars W All Purpose Collars W Show Collars W Heavy Logging Collars W No-Choke Pulling Collars W Collar Clock & Mirror Large Inventory in Stock for prompt shipment!
Design ©The Draft Horse Journal
We also stock No Wrinkle Vinyl Healing Pads Harness Parts
CALL OR WRITE FOR A FREE WHOLESALE CATALOG.
Answering service 515-830-2596 17607 200th St. | Bloomfield, Iowa 52537
Horse Healthcare Beiler’s Mfg. & Supply 3025 Irishtown Rd. Ronks, PA 17572 (717) 768-0174 Special deal on Haarlem Oil. Buy 10 tubes and get 2 free. (10 ml. tube). Reg. price $36/doz. Special price $30/doz. Case of 144 tubes reg. $34/doz. Special price $28.32/doz. #07596 Durvet Duramectin Wormer $2.50 ea. $2.40 ea. (50+). $2.30 ea. (100+).
Leather American Leather Direct 4209 Orange Cemetery Rd. Morgantown, KY 42261-9631 (800) 624-7642 (270) 526-3835 Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
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10/11 oz. #2 US steer chestnut bridle. 50 sides. $5.75/sq. ft. 6/7 oz. #2 US steer burgundy latigo. 25 sides. $5.70/sq. ft. 8/9 oz. #2 US steer burgundy latigo. 25 sides. $5.70/sq. ft. 10/12 oz. #2 US steer burgundy latigo. 25 sides. $5.70/sq. ft. 12/13 oz. #2 US steer Golden Skirting. 25 sides. $115/side 10/12 oz. #2 US steer Sunset Harness. 50 sides. $145/side
Barta Hide Co. 888 Lakeville St. Petaluma, CA 94952 (707) 762-2965 (707) 762-1088
upholstery leather (many colors). $1.75/sq. ft. orange cow split. $.90/sq. ft. oil tan scrap. $1.25/lb. shorn black or brown beaver. $50 per piece. misc. good handbag leather (colors). $1.50/sq. ft. veg. tan side leather. 5/7 oz. $3.15/sq. ft. patent and metallic leathers. $1.50/sq. ft. deer, elk, and buffalo scrap mix. $3.50/lb.
E. C. Leather 7364 E. 38th St. Tulsa, OK 74145 (888) 207-3305 (918) 583-0292 earth, glovey “Old West” oiltan 5/6 oz. $2.75/ sq. ft. Great for chaps, chinks, cow hobbles, and wear leathers. python printed pig in 4 bright colors. $1.50/ sq. ft. Red/black, grey/black, med. brn./black, and tan/black. Great for overlays on headstalls, breast collars, etc. glovey upholstery whole hides ¾ oz. in variety of earth tones. Good for chaps, bags, saddle seats, etc. $2.25/sq. ft. 7.5/8 oz. red brick finished sides. Has small pebble grain. Use for lining, dog leads, belts. $3.25/sq. ft. Call Sue or Lenny for complete list of monthly specials.
The Hide House 595 Monroe St. Napa, CA 94559 (888) HIDE-HOUSE www.hidehouse.com British tan retro cowsides 3/3.5 oz. $1.95/sq. ft. red Dakota cowsides 3.5/4 oz. $1.95/sq. ft. black distressed lambskin 2/2.5 oz. Skins 6-7 sq. ft. $1.95/sq. ft. black misc. cowsides 3/5 oz. Misc. finishes, temper, and shades. $1.50/sq. ft. 16 |
June 2013
Shop Talk!
walnut Montana cowsides 4/5 oz. $2.45/sq. ft. brown Crazy Horse cowsides 5/5.5 pz. $2.25/ sq. ft. brown Aztec dbl. shoulder 8/9 oz. #1. Italian. $3.95/sq. ft. Asst. cowsides 2.5/3.5 oz. $1.75/sq. ft. or buy 6 or more @ $1.50/ sq. ft.
Double K Leather Sales 205 N. Main St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 493-1833 www.doublekleather.com US heavy native steers russet skirting TR grade 10/12 oz. $120/side US heavy russet strap TR grade 9/10 oz. leveled. $118/side Roughout bull skirting. Natural. Flesh side buffed. 13/15 oz. $88/side Plug skirting natural. 13/15 oz. $83/side Imitation golden fleece 63”. 18 yds. per roll @ $12/yd.
(800) 874-1167 (513) 889-0500 www.moserleatherco.com dbl. shoulders @ $4.50/sq. ft. and up. skirting sides @ $150/side harness sides @ $125/side Ask about other leather specials.
Springfield Leather Co. 1463 S. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65804 (800) 668-8518 www.springfieldleather.com distressed brown pebble grain finished cowhide splits. 3/3.5 oz. $.99/sq. ft. police gear bellies. Hermann Oak. Struck through veg bellies. Specifically tanned for tactical gear. Firm. 8/10 oz. Black and
Maverick Leather Co. 1364 N. McDowell Blvd. Petaluma, CA 94954 (877) 845-0080 (707) 792-2208 www.maverickleathercompany.com horse strip seconds 5/7 oz. $12 ea. misc. black oiltan 4/6 oz. Some brands and scratches. $1.50/sq. ft. skirting (imported) 13/15 oz. $140/side misc. top grain sheepskin. Craft grade plus. $6/skin full grain pig lining. Wheat. $1.35.sq. ft. Horween oiltan side with slight pull-up. Nice selection. 6/6.5 oz. $80/side
Moser Leather Co. 1405 Boyle Rd. Hamilton, OH 45013 Shop Talk!
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brown. $12 ea. burgundy finished nappa calf splits. 1/1.5 oz. Supple. $1.99/sq. ft. olive hornback gator patent lambskins. Embossed. Two-tone. 2.5/3 oz. $1.49/sq. ft. black deer tanned goat skins. Soft. 2 oz. $1.49/sq. ft. antique floral embossed cowhides. Premium grade. Available in Antique Red and Rustic Tan. 3 oz. $3.49/sq. ft. antique peanut super gator. Embossed. Premium grade. 3 oz. $3.49/sq. ft. mahogany high embossed gator print. Twotone. Premium. $3.49/sq. ft. Reg. $8/sq. ft.
Thoroughbred Leather
For even more specials, check out Springfield’s “10 Day Deals” at www.springfieldleather. com.
Troyer’s Rope Co.
177 N. Wenzel Ave. Louisville, KY 40206 (502) 315-0315 www.thoroughbredleather.com 7/8 oz. burgundy latigo. $5.15/sq. ft. 7/8 oz. canyontan bullhide. $4.55/sq. ft. 3/4 oz. natural rawhide. $85/pc. 3/4 oz. bleached rawhide. $85/pc. 6/7 oz. shrunken black bison. $4.50/sq. ft. 13/14 oz. dark chestnut bridle. $145/side (close to dark plum or wine color)
Rope 20785 Morris Rd. Conneautville, PA 16406 (800) 872-0103 (814) 587-3879 58 MP 5/8” derby rope. Solid braid MFP. 600’ cartoons. $.159/ft. Reg. $.199/ft. 5 combinations: black/sky blue, black/silver, olive drab/navy, tan/navy, raspberry/navy. While supplies last.
Shoe/Boot Laces J. Weiner & Co. P O Box 12683 Roanoke, VA 24027 (800) 444-6979 shoesupplies@yahoo.com bulk lace closeout (1 to 19 pr. @ $.35/pr.) (20 to 49 pr. @ $.25/pr.) (50 pr. and up @ $.20/pr.) sport laces. Black 45”, 54”, 63” & 72”. White 36”, 45”, 54”, 63” Taison laces (bulk). Gold/tan 36”, 54”. Brown 54” Mix and match. 18 |
June 2013
Shop Talk!
Spots Standard Rivet 71 A St. Boston, MA 02127 (800) 367-4838 (617) 268-3100 www.standardrivet.com diamond and oblong Express Spots in pewter and ox gilt finished. Sizes and quantities limited. 5/8” cutout spots. Diamond, heart, club, spade square and round shapes. Powder coated white.
Thread Bogle Greenwell Machinery Corp. 3100 E. Main Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (972) 262-8652 (972) 262-3101 www.boglegreenwell.com
Custommade Knives & Tools for Leatherworkers
■ New Handles Danny Repair ■◉Sharpen Round Knives ◉ Stitch Groovers Marlin ◉ Custommade Tools Knives ◉ Bench Knives
(254) 842- 5405
◉ Stock Tools ◉ Old Blades Reshaped
1550 County Road 207 ■ Blanket, TX 76432
Try our NEW Vinyl in 8 Colors Both sides vinyl. Better than marine vinyl. For longer wear-Wash them clean & keep inside dry.
• Collar pads • Breast pads • Show pads • Split Breast pads • Back pads • Breeching pads
• Write For Free Catalog • Sweat Pad Shop 183 Stoneyhill Road, Quarryville, PA 17566
A&E thread. Colors. Size 207. $8
Booth & Co. P O Box 3232 Peabody, MA 01960 (978) 531-3730 kenchapman@boothandco.com Special introductory offer for waxed braided polyester thread for hand sewing. Black only. Apx. 450 grams/spool. $19.95/spool, 20% below list. 0.8 mm. 800 meters per spool 1.0 mm. 600 meters per spool 1.2 mm. 400 meters per spool
Shelton-Reynolds 11516 N. Port Washington Rd. Mequon, WI 53092 (800) 877-7150 Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
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’ lin suizmzm er
s
sale
ount 15% Disc th, 2011 thru June 30
Floral Pattern Drawing for the Artistically Impared A systematic approach to developing patterns for western floral carving. How to: layout your design, draw flowers and leaves, develop your own floral patterns, numerous design ideas and more. Plus: 8 pages of flowers and leaves to be used. By Pete Gorrell - Academy of Western Artists Saddle Maker of the Year 2000 & Al Stohlman Award Recipient 2007. Was $18.95
Trees Bowden Saddle Tree Co. 8227 Doniphan Dr. Anthony, TX 79821 (800) 451-3191 (915) 877-3191 info@saddletree.com $100 Trees 1-TM 20” seat 1-BWBR (stapled) 14” seat 1-Modified McClellan/Endurance 15” seat 1-Modified McClellan/Endurance 15” seat
SALE PRICE: $16.10
The Basics of Saddle Fit New title by Pete Gorrell. A guide to understanding the relationship between the saddle tree and the horse’s back. For saddle makers and anyone who rides. Very practical. Was $21.95
SALE PRICE: $18.65
$125 Trees 5-Monty Foreman/Balance Ride 15” seat *$150 Trees 1-Association/Leg Cut 14” seat 1-BW Ranch Cutter 16 ¾” seat 1-Dina Special BR 15” seat 1-SF Bowman/Mule Bars 15 ½” seat Call for complete specs. Prices do not include shipping. Trees non-returnable.
Fine Art of the West This is one of those hefty coffee table books that is not simply loaded with gorgeous pictures of all things Western such as saddles, silver, boots, holsters, pistols, hats, and spurs. Rather, each picture has been chosen with a lot of thought and often depicts an unique historical development or an example of unusual workmanship. The many photographs are accompanied by thoughtful commentary and solid historical research that make the craftsmen and the products they created very present to the reader whether he or she is a rank amateur, veteran leather worker, or just an interested reader. Many historically important saddle makers, bit makers, boot makers, etc. are covered in some detail. 270 illustrations. 10 3/8” x 12 ¼”. Was: $75.00
SALE PRICE: $63.75
Proleptic, Inc. | P.O. Box 17817 ∙ Asheville, NC 28816 P 828.505.8474 | F 828.505.8476 www.proleptic.net | shoptalk@proleptic.net
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ron@sheltonreynolds.com Sewing thread closeout. $10/lb. No. 415 white nylon on ½ lb. cones. 35 lbs. No. 554 black nylon on ½ lb. cones. 62 lbs. No. 415 black polyester on 2 lbs. cones. 42 lbs.
Vinyl Shelton-Reynolds 11516 N. Port Washington Rd. Mequon, WI 53092 (800) 877-7150 ron@sheltonreynolds.com 61” 13 oz. gloss white vinyl laminate. 2nds. 14,000 yds. available. Made is USA. $2.75/yd. Ideal for tent sidewalls, banners, table covers, curtain partitions, floor and wall protections in paint booths, hay covers, utility tarps, etc. 61” 22 oz. yellow vinyl coated polyester (truck
June 2013
Shop Talk!
tarp fabric). First quality on 100 yd. rolls. Only two rolls left. $5/yd.
Webbing Beiler’s Mfg. & Supply 3025 Irishtown Rd. Ronks, PA 17572 (717) 768-0174 #7374 ¾” ribbed soft cotton webbing. Hunter green. 100 yd. rolls. $.45/yd. (1 roll). $.40/yd. (5 rolls)
Hillside Harness Hdw. 4205 Township Road 629 Millersburg, OH 44654 VM (330) 893-1974 ext. 2 Fax (330) 698-3200 1” royal blue nylon webbing. Heavy. $.20/yd. 3/4” royal blue nylon webbing. Heavy. $.28/yd.
44th Annual Harness Makers Gathering Friday, July 19, 2013
Consignment Auction Thursday July 18, 2013
133 Welding Drive Rebersburg, PA 16872
Phone: (814) 349-4479 Fax: (814) 349-8024 Best time to call is 10:00 to 10:30 AM or 2:00 to 2:30 PM
We are located 13 miles east of Centre Hall & 30 miles west of Lewisburg - just off route 192.
Machinery, Hand Tools, Leather, Hardware - Snaps, Buckles, etc., Rope, Nylon Webbing, Tack, Bits, Buggy Hames, Plus much more. Contact us for a more complete sale bill closer to sale time.
Commission:
15% - $1.00 to $999.00 • 10% $1,000.00 + • $100.00 maximum commission per item.
Lodging - Ask for Hilltop Tack Supply rate. (Some B&B’s may not honor our rate)
Comfort Inn (About 12 miles)................................................................................................... (570) 726-4901 Hampton Inn (About 12 miles) ................................................................................................. (570) 726-3939
Local Bed & Breakfasts:
Centre Mills (walking distance) ................................................................................................ (814) 349-8000 Schaffer’s Country Cottages (Approx. 6 miles) ....................................................................... (814) 349-8316 The Lead Horse (About 10 miles)............................................................................................ (814) 422-8783 Keller House (About 12 miles) ................................................................................................. (814) 364-2225 The Aaronsburg Inn (About 6 miles) ........................................................................................ (814) 349-8626 Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
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Western Accessories Garroutte Products P O Box 2930 Ponca City, OK 74602 (800) 870-8207 www.circlegbrand.com Specials on the following. Call for prices. roper or barrel slanted stirrups turquoise embossed floral set
Sugar Valley Collar Shop 18 Wagon Wheel Lane Loganton, PA 17747 570-725-3499 10% cash ‘n carry sale July 18 & 19 Located approximately 12 miles from the Harness Makers’ Reunion. Call or send orders in by July 10 to ensure availability. We will deliver to the reunion if requested.
Read ONLINE
www.proleptic.net
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June 2013
Shop Talk!
The inside scoop on high leather prices
F
or the past couple of years leather suppliers and tanners have been feeling squeezed between steadily increasing hide prices and increasingly unhappy customers who really do not like the higher prices they’re paying for their leather. Everyone is asking, “Is there no relief in sight?” Unfortunately, there’s not a lot that our suppliers and tanners can do about this situation since it is a classic case of “supply and demand”. The following report is an attempt to offer a brief and woefully inadequate explanation of why our leather continues to cost more. Please note: The information provided in this article will be at least 30 days old by the time you read it since the hide market, like all commodity markets, is something that changes from day to day and hour to hour. Still, despite the fluctuations, the trends mentioned here will hopefully suggest where world markets seem to be heading and how you can expect the hide market to behave.
The Hide Report The Cost of Hides Let’s begin by looking at how the price for Heavy Native Steers has risen over the past couple years. While there are many different types of hides (See “The Hide Divide”)—depending on such factors as gender, weight, and the presence or absence of brands—the HNS is the hide that is most frequently in demand by tanners of heavy veg saddle and harness leather. However, since it’s a big, clean (no brands), heavy hide it is also the preferred hide for automotive and furniture upholstery. That means then there’s a lot of competition for HNS given the increase in demand for upholstery leathers worldwide. More about that later. There’s also this to consider: depending on what types of hides are available and depending on what hides are costing, there can sometimes be competition from manufacturers of small leather goods and shoes who normally buy selections which are smaller, have brands,
Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
23
and, consequently, are normally cheaper; however, if cost goes up too much then it might make more economic sense to buy more expensive hides which will give a better yield. It’s all a kind of balancing act. But when that happens, then the competition for Heavy Native Steers is fierce which drives up the cost up even further. Supply and demand. Here’s what HSN prices have done since 2009, mid-May, average weight 64 to 66 lbs. Of course, there’s a premium on the heavier hides (70-76 lbs.) which tanners for the harness and saddlery trades compete for:
an increase of 7.4%. From mid-May 2010 to midMay 2013 there’s been an increase of 34.6%. Here’s a chart for other selections which compares prices for mid-May to 2013 to mid-May 2012: Weight (lbs.)
Per Pc. FOB
Heavy Texas Steers
60-62
$99-100
Heavy Texas Steers (Hvy)
70-76
$106-107
Branded Steers
60-62
$97-98
70-76
$104-106
Selection
Price Last Year $84-85
$83-84
2009--$30 2010--$75
**150% increase
Branded Steers (Hvy)
2010--$75 2011--$85
**13.3% increase
Colorado Steers
60-62
$95-96
2011--$85 2012--$87
**2.3% increase
Butt Branded Steers
60-62
$99-100
Butt Branded Steers (Hvy)
70-76
$106-107
Heavy Native Steers (Hvy)
70-76
$108-110
Heavy Native Heifers
48-52
$87-88
$78-79
The best grades from the best tanneries!
Branded Heifers
48-52
$86-87
$74-74.50
Hermann Oak #1, or A & B grades only! Skirting, Harness, Strap, tooling, etc.
Heavy Native Cows
48-52
$73-75
$63-67.50
Branded Cows
48-52
$63-65
$50-53
Spready Dairy Cows
48-52
$80-82
$70-72
Native Bulls
100-110
$82-85
$72-74
2012--$87 2013--$101 **16% increase From January 2013 to May 2013 there’s been
Chap, Saddle & Tooling Leather!
Large clean sides of chap leather! Same types and colors always in stock! Work, Rodeo and Show!
Outstanding service! Real leather sample cards available!
Goliger Leather Company 800 423-2329 Fax 805 650-1742 email: service@goligerleather.com Visit our website: goligerleather.com
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$81-82 $84-85
Why Do Prices Keep Rising? The simple answer to the question, “Why do prices keep rising?” is because worldwide demand for leather and leather products keeps steadily increasing due to an rise in the standard of living in a growing number of countries. Ad-
June 2013
Shop Talk!
mittedly, while there may be economic turmoil in different parts of the world at different times and while the fortunes of this or that company may rise or fall, it can be said that, when you look at the state of the global economy, there are more positive things to be said than negative. At least for this month. There follows a number of examples which will help buttress the above assertion regarding the expansion of the global economy and, hence, an increase in the consumption of retail products including leather goods such as shoes, boots, belts, accessories, handbags, garments, furniture, and automobiles with leather upholstery. , In April of this year Brazil recorded the highest value of exported hides and skins in the history of the country, up 19.2% compared to JanuaryApril 2012. The Brazilian tanning industry is presently involved in an aggressive marketing campaign to increase its sales internationally, assisted by several governmental agencies.
Encouraging economic signs in the US include: • a decrease in unemployment to around 7.5% • an increase in house sales and new home construction • an increase the average price of a house • near record setting highs in the stock market A Demand for Luxury According to “This Week in Leather” from www.hidenet.com, “in recent years the demand for luggage and leather goods has grown. The competitive rivalry seems to be due to the large number of players competing with each other to gain market share. Consumer demand has been shifting toward the new design and innovative leather products with changing fashion trends and lifestyle. . . . “When it comes to the health of the luxury segment, a recent headline in the Wall Street
, Pakistan increased its export of leather products 44.68% over the same time last year. , A number of US manufacturers of footwear and large marketing groups have shown increased revenue while also adding additional stores both in the US and abroad. , Indian exports of leather products has reached a record $5 billion which includes footwear, leather goods and accessories, finished leather, leather garments, and saddlery and harness, the smallest percentage of the total. , In the first quarter of 2013, Chinese retail sales rose 12.4%. The Chinese gross domestic product (GDP) rose 7.7% for the first quarter. The sale of passenger vehicles has risen 13%. , While Furniture Brands, manufacturers of Lane and Broyhill, showed a fall in sales of 11.3%, Haverty said its first quarter profits were more than triple last year’s first quarter sales. Sales showed a 13.8% increase.
Bogle Greenwell Machinery Corp. Since 1953
3100 E. Main, Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (972) 262-8652 or (972) 262-3101 Fax (972) 262-3251 Leather Machinery, Dies & Supplies Representatives & Distributors for:
Indusco Acme Staple Co. Adler America Inc. Chandler Machine Co. Manufacturers Supplies Co. Campbell Bosworth Machinery Co.
Consolidated Sewing Machine Corp. Hudson Machine Co. Randall Leather Machine Corp. Western Supplies Co. Quick Roll Leaf Mfg. Co., Inc. Schaefer Machine Company, Inc. Fortuna Machine Co. Ferd, Schmetz Needle Corp. Jado Machine Co. New England Needles Inc. Juki AmericaSinger Machine Co. Pfaff Pegasus of USA, Inc. & many more
Sale or Lease of New & Used Machinery www.boglegreenwell.com
Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
25
Journal said it best: ‘What Recession? Americans Regain a Craving for Luxury.’ Most analysts, including Jonas Hoffman, professor of luxury marketing at SKEMA Business School, would readily agree. “In one of his reports on the luxury consumer, Hoffman acknowledges, ‘the luxury industry is currently on a remarkable journey. Quarter after quarter, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, et. al. announce record sales in a growing market with profits in double digits.’ “Until very recently, China held the bragging rights for being the engine responsible for driving the luxury segment. Most studies, including a Bain & Co. reported issued last year, found the Chinese consumers were spending more on luxury items than shoppers anywhere else in the world, including the US which was close behind. “Bain said affluent Chinese consumers spent
close to $35 billion last year on iconic luxury brands, with Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Chanel at the top of the list…. “The gains made by luxury brands were also confirmed in findings from recently released 2013 Harris Poll EquiTrend study. After evaluating more than 1,500 brands in more than 155 categories, the study concluded that dozens of luxury brands made significant gains in brand equity compared to the prior year.…” More Good News Tandy Leather Factory recently reported that revenues at stores opened for at least a year climbed 23% in April with total monthly revenues rising to $7.3 million. Wholesale leather craft sales gained 14% to $2.5 million. Sales for international leather craft surged 82% to $400,000. For the yearto-date, revenue at stores opened at least a year increased 15%. Total revenue climbed 11% to $26.6 million. Retail leather craft sales rose 17% to $15.9 million while wholesale leather craft sales were flat at $9.3 million. International leather craft sales increased 42% to $1.4 million. In Conclusion So what does all of this mean? Well, if countries like Brazil and India are reporting record exports of leather and leather goods there must be someone on the other end buying what they’re making which argues for a growing global economy. Which means a growing demand for leather worldwide and little respite from high prices any time in the near future.
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June 2013
Shop Talk!
(unbranded) cow hides are valuable but not as much as Native steers or heifers because cow hides are older and, therefore, have more damage. Light Native Cows (LNC)—same thing as Heavy Native Cows but less than 47 lbs. Heavy Native Heifer (HNH)—unbranded female cattle hide, usually costs about the same per pound as Native steer but lighter weight—under 58 lbs. A heifer is a young female bovine not used for reproduction. Cattle hides are divided into two main categories: native and branded. Native hides are sourced primarly from farmers rather than ranchers and thus do not have any brands on them. Since a rancher’s herd is usually much larger and more spread out than a farmer’s, branding is necessary to avoid confusion. Industry sources note some banks that loan money to ranchers insist on branding to help protect their investments. Brands, however, lower the value of a hide because upholstery and garment leather tanners, as well as some skirting and harness tanners, require hides to be free of brands. Brands cannot be completely removed in the upholstery tanning process, and few consumers would tolerate a brand in the middle of their fine leather couch cushion or on the sleeve of an expensive leather coat. The following list describes and defines the various types of hides as distinguished by traders: Heavy Native Steer (HNS)—unbranded young male cattle hide, used extensively for automotive leather (car seats) and furniture upholstery. A steer hide must weigh 56-58 lbs. or it is considered a heifer regardless of sex. Most beef packers separate hides according to weight and simply use a specific weight break—usually around 57 lbs.—to differentiate between steer and heifer hides. A steer is a male bovine that is not used for breeding. Heavy Native Cows (HNC)—unbranded cowhides differentiated by region. A cow is a female bovine kept alive longer for diary and/or breeding. Native
Spready Cow—also called Holstein Dairy Cow. This is a Holstein dairy cow used to make leather for garments because it is thin. Brings very good prices. “Spready Cow” is a term specific to the hide industry. Even long-time farmers are usually unfamiliar with this term. Usually one of the more expensive hide types. Butt Branded Steers—branded on the butt. These hides are sometimes sought out by Native buyers be-cause they can work around the brand. Colorado Steers—also called Collies. Branded on the side and often with multiple brands. Not quite as valuable because of brands right smack in the middle of the hide. Branded Steers—simply a mix of Butt Branded Steers and Colorado Steers. Heavy Texas Steers—a hearty, distinct breed of cattle from Texas. They are all branded in various locations. Provide good quality for shoe leather and should al-ways bring more money than a Branded Steer or Collie. These hides are thick and can be split to make thinner leather. Bull Hides—a bull is a male bovine kept alive beyond normal slaughter age to use for breeding. Bull hides are the only hides sold on a conventional (unfleshed) basis because they are too big to fit in many fleshing machines at packing plants—just imagine having the job of unloading a truck full of bull hides from a packing plant with considerable amounts of flesh still on them. It has to be one of the toughest jobs at a tannery. Bull hides are some of the cheapest priced hides because of their age.
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June 2013 |
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TANNAGES There are four generally recognized types of tannages: The first is vegetable tannage. In this process, tannin, a sub-stance present in many plants, is infused into the prepared wet skins. The oldest, and many say the best method, is pit tannage. Hides are simply placed in a pit that is filled with a mixture of ground bark and water. This process can take a year or more for heavy bovine hides, starting with very weak infusions and moving through stronger ones. Too strong a tanning solution at first simply tans the outside of the hide and seals in the middle which remains untanned. Even when natural bark is used, the pit system has generally been replaced with paddle or rocker vats which speed up the process considerably. But instead of ground bark, tannin extracts are often used. Different
tree barks produce different leather color and different tempers. Pure oak, for example, makes a mellow, pale leather, strong and flexible. Hemlock makes a firmer, better wearing leather that is reddish in color. The second type of tannage is mineral tannage. This modern form of tanning was invented over the period 1860-1885, and revolutionized the leather industry. Leather could be tanned much more cheaply and quickly than in the past. Basically, hides were immersed in a bath of water and chromium sulfate, agitated in a drum, and tanned in a few hours. Although chrome tanned leather lacks the body and moldability of vegetable leather, it is at least as abrasion resistant, more flexible, stronger, and better able to stand heat. Although universally called “chrome tanning,� other materials are used: zirconium sulfate, for example, pro-
duces a white leather; also used are salts of aluminum, potassium, and iron.
first then chrome tanned; “chrome retans” are done in the opposite order.
Also classed as mineral tannages are specialized processes that tan using either formaldehyde or glutaraldehyde.
The fourth and last method of tannage is oil tannage. This is actually tanning with oil, not treating leather with it. The leather commonly referred to as “oil tanned” is not oil tanned; it is normally chrome tanned and then lightly oiled.
The third type of tannage is a combination of vegetable and mineral tannages. This more expensive process is used to create special purpose leathers with the desirable characteristics of both tannages. The skin or hide is first tanned by one method then retanned by the other. Looking at a cross section of such leather, the center will clearly show how it was first tanned while the grain and flesh sides will show the features of the second method. “Semi-chrome” leathers have been vegetable tanned
Probably the only true oil tanned leather we see today is chamois. Oil tannage involves scraping off the grain layer—the oil cannot penetrate it well enough—then oiling both sides of the skin. As the oil oxidizes, it causes the skin to become tanned. Oil tans always have the grain removed and are dry to the touch. Another example is true buckskin. Early tanners scraped the skins and rubbed in fat and fatty brain tissue which did the job.
PUTTING the VEG into VEGETABLE You hear the term all the time—“veg” or “veg tanned leather” or “vegetable tanned.” And sometimes you hear “bark tanned” or “oak tanned” which are really more descriptive of the process; however, no tannery in the US (or for that matter anywhere else in the world) currently uses oak extract in its pits. “So what’s this ‘veg’ stuff all about?” you ask. There exists in many plants naturally occurring tannic acid that is also referred to as tannin—C76H52O46. It’s a really big molecule which takes a long time to penetrate the cellular structure of cow hide. And the plants with the highest concentration of tannin are trees—whether they are wood, bark, leaves, nuts, or fruit. Here’s how it works: the vegetable matter—hence the term “veg tanned leather”—that’s being used is ground up. And then it’s steeped in hot water. The water leeches out the tannins and that water can be pumped into the tanning pits into which green hides are soaked. That’s how it was done in the old, old days, and that’s the way it way it was done at the now defunct Muir & McDonald Tannery in Oregon. In fact, they were the only tannery in the US that still made their own veg extract. They would actually go to local sawmills and logging operations and buy Douglas fir and hemlock back. Normally, the tannery tried to keep a two or three year supply of bark on hand at all times to provide it with the one to two tons of ground bark it used each week. After being ground, the bark was put into Muir & McDonald’s “percolator” into which boiling water was repeatedly pumped from the bottom of the unit to the top. After draining through the bark grounds and leeching out the tannin, the “tanning liquor” went into the tannery’s rocker pits. And then, rather than taking the spent bark to the landfill, Muir & McDonald sold it as mulch and recovered approximately half its cost.
Most other tanners, however, buy powdered extract that’s ready to be added into their pits. It comes in big sacks and looks like coarsely ground corn meal or flour. The extracts most commonly used by veg tanners come from the acacia family such as mimosa or wattle, quebracho, chestnut, and tara. Each extract produces leather with its own characteristic color and feel or “hand” or “temper.” Mimosa is gown commercially in South Africa and Brazil and can also be found in Southeast Asia and India. It’s grown for seven years and then harvested for its bark. Mimosa produces a light colored leather with a soft temper. Quebracho, on the other hand, produces a fuller, firmer leather with a red-dish hue. It is indigenous to Argentina where it grows wild. The tree is cut when it is approximately 100 years old. The heartwood of the tree is used to produce quebracho extract. Chestnut was widely used in the US until the trees largely died out. Loggers who sold the bark to tanneries called it “acid wood.” Today, chestnut is found growing in southern Europe and used by many Italian tanners. It is very acidic and was traditionally used by US tanners to control the acid values in their pits until it was replaced by chemicals. Chestnut produces a very firm tannage with a greenish tint. Tara produces a very soft and pliable tannage which tends to be light fast—does not fade when exposed to daylight. I am told that it is used by companies that manufacture upholstery leather for the German automo-tive market since all components in German cars are required by law to be either recyclable or biodegradable. Completely “green.” A big thanks to Shep Hermann, President of Hermann Oak Leather, for his help with this article. Thanks, Shep! Always a pleasure and an education
NOT ALL HIDES ARE CREATED EQUAL L
et me share with you a discovery I recently made which I hope you find of some interest and not simply an admission of my own ignorance. Which it is. Now I know you’ve seen in catalogs and on price lists the notations, “Made on US Hides” and “Made on Imported Hides”. And it seems like tanners and suppliers make a real effort to let you know that THEIR leather is made on US HIDES. Of course, as we all know, “US hides are the best in the world.” And by that I’ve always understood: 1) they tend to be heavier
30 |
or thicker because of a better diet; 2) they have more square feet; 3) there is less cosmetic scar and barb wire damage on the grain; and 4) there are few if any butcher cuts on the flesh. That was it. And, boy—was I wrong! To compound my ignorance, I believed, mistakenly, that once the hides were tanned, regardless of their origin, then the leather would be exactly the same. By that I mean if a Mexican or Argentine hide was tanned along with an US hide, then the leather that was produced would be identical. Both pieces of leather would have the exact same char-acteristics. The US hide
June 2013
Shop Talk!
might be bigger, heavier, and cleaner but the leather from the US hide would be identical to the leather from the imported one.
Wrong again. Recently, I visited the folks at International Sheepskin and Leather and toured their enor-mous warehouse with the owner and tanner, Pepe Cerda. While there, we were looking at a pallet of heavy veg sides or backs. And Pepe started picking through the stack and identifying which of the sides had been made on US hides and which on Mexican. I was kind of dumbfounded as to how he knew the difference since the hides had had the exact same tannage and had, in fact, been tanned together. So I asked Pepe what the difference was and he pulled a side that had been tanned on an US hide and a side that had been tanned on a Mexican hide and laid them next to one another. Wow—what a dif-ference in their temper. The US piece had a much tighter grain and made a much more pleasing, firmer piece of leather.
› The cow’s diet › The amount of fat
present in the skin
I also came away with a better appreciation of why American packers have such a wide range of well-defined categories for the green hides they sell which really help the buyer to know pretty much exactly what they’re buying and whether or not that particular type of hide makes the type of leather they want. No doubt it helps cut down on the confusion. So there really is something as to what kind of hide was used in the making of a tanner’s leather! Now I know!
When I returned from my sojourns I wanted to run this by someone with a lot of tanning experience so I called Jeff Ballard at Thoroughbred Leather. Yes, Jeff, said, different hides do make a noticeably dif-ferent piece of leather. In fact, Jeff himself can look at a piece of leather and pretty much tell what kind of hide was used. I came away from my conversation with Jeff with a better understanding of some of the different attributes a hide may have and how they can affect the tannage, such as:
› The breed of the cow (which can make a big difference)
› The sex of the cow › The age of the cow Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
31
Summer Book Sale Valid thru June 28, 2013
Free S+H in the US
Advanced Western Saddle Making,
Leather Braiding
Volume 1
Was $21.50
Was $9.95
SALE PRICE: $18.25
SALE PRICE: $8.45
English Saddle Repair Shoe Repairs That You Can Do
Leather Facts: How
to Better Evaluate & Buy Leather 20 pp Was $11.50 ON SALE: $9.80
Resoling Rocky Mountain Boots • Installing Lifts in a Woman’s Sneaker • Rebuilding Birkenstock Sandals •Resoling an Allen Edmunds Men’s Dress Shoe Making Your Repair Shop Successful • Half Soles & Heels for a Western Boot • Repairing Worn HeelsResoling Running Shoes • Potions & Lotions • Rocky Mountain Boots Revisited: New Soles & Mid-soles • Installing a Three-Quarter Wedge into Sandals
• Disassembling the Saddle • Replacing Billets • Fixing a Broken Tree • Sewing on Panels • And More Repairs You Can Do
Was $21.50 52 pp
SALE PRICE: $18.30
Making a Halter/Bridle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Was $22.50 36 pp ON SALE: $19.15
Was $22.50 52 pp ON SALE: $19.15
Leather Projects You Can Do: Volumes I- VIII Volume I
• Installing Strings on a Western Saddle • Replacing the Wool on a Western Saddle, Part One & Part Two • Replacing Western Stirrup Leathers, Part One & Part Two • More Tips & Tricks for Replacing Western Stirrup Leathers
$21.50 ON SALE $18.30
Volume II
Volume III
• More Western Saddle Repairs • Making a Carpenter’s Apron, • Making an Old Fashioned Part One & Part Two Western Bridle • Making a Farrier’s Apron • Making Tapaderos: • Making a Custom Tool Pouch Different Styles & Sizes • Making a Walkie Talkie Case • More Tapaderos $19.50 ON SALE $16.60 • Repairing a Western Saddle Horn
• Making a Pistol Holder • Making a Western Gun Belt • Making Shell Loops • Making a Detachable Shell Carrier • Making an Adjustable Rifle Sling with Shell Pouch
$17.00 ON SALE $14.45
$22.50 ON SALE $19.15
Volume V
Volume VI
$22.00 ON SALE $18.70
$19.50 ON SALE $16.60
• How to Make Rounds • Making a Rounded Throat Latch • Making a Mule Riding Bridle • Making a “Brollar” • Making a Team Breast Collar • Fast Facts
Volume IV
• Collars, Couplers & Leashes, Part One & Part Two • Installing Spikes & Spots • Making Dog Harness • Making Dog Tracking Harness • Making a Dog Muzzle
PLUS · Service Manuals
· Instruction Manuals · Parts Lists
Volume VII
• Making a Leather Log Box • Making Leather Pockets for Billiard Table • Repairing a Leather Gun Case: New Straps & Handle • Replacing Trunk Handles • Rerigging a McClellan Saddle
$19.50 ON SALE $16.60
Volume VIII
• Making a Possible Bag for Black Powder Shooting • Restringing Bells • Making Leather Suspenders • Making Cow & Horse Hobbles • Making a Knife Sheath • Making a Double Bit Axe Sheath • Making a Single Bit Axe Sheath
$22.00 ON SALE $18.70
We have a variety of manufacture specific manuals. Visit www.proleptic.net for the list of manuals & prices or give us a call and we can mail you the information.
Proleptic, Inc. |2013 P.O. Box 17817 Asheville, NC 28816 | P 828.505.8474 | F 828.505.8476 | www.proleptic.net | shoptalk@proleptic.net 32 | June Shop Talk!
15% Discount & Free Shipping! For a limited time only! Valid thru June 28h, 2013
Cowboy Bits and Spurs
by Joice I. Overton: hard cover, 160 pp. This book successfully combines “Working Cowboy” knowledge with “Cowboy Collectibles,” describing the actual usage, background, and value of cowboy bits and spurs, along with many other accessories. Was $39.95
SALE PRICE: $33.95
Cowboy Boot
by Tyler Beard with photos by Jim Arndt: paperback, 320 pp. By the same duo that did the original Cowboy Boot Book and then Art of the Boot. This effort is every bit as good. A must for boot collectors & boot lovers. Note: This book measures 6” x 6”. 500 color photos. Was $15.95
SALE PRICE: $13.55
Whips and Whipmaking by David W. Morgan: paperback, 132 pp. An illuminating exposition of the uses as well as the construction and design of whips. This book revives an aspect of our technological and social history that had fallen into neglect. Was $19.95
SALE PRICE: $16.95
The Leatherworking Handbook by Valeri Michael: paperback, 120 pp. Great for most any leatherworker. Total of 10 projects from simple to advanced complete with instructions and patterns. Also gives some background and theory of leatherworking and discusses tools, techniques & construction methods. Was $19.95
SALE PRICE: $16.95 Packing Iron: Gunleather of the Frontier West by Richard Rattenbury: hard cover, 219 pp. This is the authoritative reference for the holsters, gun rigs, & rifle scabbards made in the Old West. 300 stunning color photos. Great “idea book” for both you and your customers. Was $45
SALE PRICE: $38.25 Leather Tooling & Carving by Chris H. Groneman, soft cover, 111 pp. with 148 photos & diagrams. This book was originally published in 1950 and has a very dated look in the way it’s organized as well as in the types of projects and styles of carving that are presented. However, with that said, there maybe forgotten ideas, techniques, & patterns that someone who stamps and carves leather would be happy to rediscover. Has the look of a classic. Was: $11.95
SALE PRICE: $10.15 Sheridan Style Carving by Bill Garner and Clinton Fay: paperback, 136+ pp. This is a book by carvers for carvers and leatherworkers who appreciate worldclass craftsmanship. Readers are taken step-bystep through the process of laying out and tooling the intricate patterns of the famous Sheridan style.Was $35
Art of the Boot
by Tyler Beard, photographs by Jim Arndt: soft cover, 160 pp. Elegant presentation throughout. Intense focus on the boot makers’ craft. Lots of great background notes on the different boot makers included. Was $24.95
SALE PRICE: $21.20
SALE PRICE: $29.75
P.O. Box 17817 Asheville NC 28816 | P 828.505.8474 | F828.505.8476 | www.proleptic.net Shop Talk!
| shoptalk@proleptic.net June 2013 | 33
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For more information or a 211 E. Hickey St. FREE catalog, call 877-916-TREE P.O. Box 232 June 2013 Shop Talk! or34visit| www.PrecisionSaddleTree.com Yoakum, Texas 77995
Boot & Shoe News
People and Products and Places
Can You Help? We are looking for mechanics and shops that work on shoe equipment as well as people who sell parts and supplies. Can you help? People are having a tough time finding someone to work on their equipment, and we are looking for places to send them. Any suggestions? Please contact: Shop Talk!, P O Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816, (828) 505-8474, e-mail: shoptalk@ proleptic.net. We need to hear from you!
New Products from Foam-Tex That’s right! More good products that work from Foam-Tex. Of course, they make one of the finest suede, leather, and fabric cleaners available which comes in a 5 oz. dispenser, 1 gallon container, and 5 gallon container. It works!
July 18 at Hilltop Tack Supply, 133 Welding Dr., Rebersburg, PA 16872, (814) 3494479—something for everyone no matter what sort of leather work you do. Sewing machines, supplies, hand tools, miscellaneous findings, hardware, and lots of leather. Consignments welcomed!
SSIA 2013 The next SSIA convention will be held July 27-28, 2013, at the Doubletree by Hilton, San Diego Mission Valley in San Diego, CA—plan now to attend! Lots of free seminars that’s you enjoy. Always a great trade show with lots of new products to discover.
Beginning this summer Foam-Tex will be selling a Salt Remover in a 4 oz. and 8 oz. trigger spray bottle. Good for everything from shoes to saddles!
COMING
Also coming soon is a Golf Shoe & Club Cleaner, formulated to clean stains caused by grass and dirt.
Big Tool Sale!!!
Visit Foam-Tex at the SSIA convention in San Diego July 27-28, 2013, at the Doubletree by Hilton, San Diego Mission Valley.
Lyons & Volpe’s New Website L&V is now online at www.l-vleather.com! Their products are online and easy to find— Leather, Rubber Products, Combination Heels. Give it a look! You can also contact Lyons & Volpe at (508) 564-6300.
An Auction You’ll Love! You will! It’s going to take place this coming
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Over 1,000 lots!! It’s too good to miss! Something for everyone! Proleptic, Inc., • PO Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816
(828) 505-8474 • www.proleptic.net • e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net
(We ship worldwide.)
Shop Talk!
June 2013 |
35
Boot Makers, Get Busy! Don’t put it off any longer! It’s time that you get busy and start making the fanciest dancing boots ever was so they’ll be ready in time to take them down to the Roundup this coming October 4-5! That’s the Custom Boot &
On Sale Save 15%
Free S+H within US Sale ends 6/28/2013
Saddle Makers’ Roundup that takes place every year in Wichita Falls, TX. There’s always a Boot Contest every year which attracts the very best boot makers in the country as well as a lot of fresh talent—like you! The man running the show this year is Mike Vaughn who may be reached at (940) 8726935 or (940) 867-2173, e-mail: mvaughnboots@aol.com. Here are the basic boot rules: Boots must be checked in at the table no later than 1 PM Friday to be entered.
sizes with both flat & rounded throat latches
- Pony - Cob - Stallion - Yearling - Horse
Size Charts for $16.50 Quick Reference +shipping Proleptic, Inc. • P.O. Box 17817 • Asheville, NC 28816 ph: 828-505-8474 • Email: shoptalk@proleptic.net www.proleptic.net
Each contestant is limited to one entry per category. Boots cannot have been previously entered in any boot competition. All boots will be entered as a pair, not a single boot. All categories will be judged anonymously
wholesale discounts available
Making Harness: A Step-by-Step Guide Sizes for:
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Contact: Shop Talk!
P.O. Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816 • (828) 505-8474 Fax: (828) 505-8472 • Email: shoptalk@proleptic.net
www.proleptic.net
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June 2013
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by boot makers who have been in the business for years and whose work is considered master quality. To eliminate any conflict of interest, no judge will have a boot or a student whose boot is entered in the contest. Buckles will be awarded to the winner of each category (minimum of 3 entries required for award to be presented). Plaques will be awarded for 2nd place in Top Stitching, Working Cowboy, Dress, and Artistry only.
Top Stitching: Boot top will have stitching only—minimum 3 rows of stitching. No inlays, collars, brands, etc. Working Cowboy: Noticeable sturdy construction built with tough type skins like (but not limited to) water buffalo, bull hide, pigskin, elephant, shark, hippo, and horse. May
An “Exhibition Only” table will be available for boots and boot maker products to be displayed. Journeyman: 15 or less pairs of boots made. Basic boot with top stitching only. No tooling, inlays, collars, brands, etc. Journeymen should concentrate on the basics of building a good boot. Note: if you enter the contest as a Journeyman, you can only enter this category.
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June 2013 |
37
include initials, brand and/or a collar only. Collars can have cutouts or inlays. No more than three colors of leather on top, including the top leather.
previously won. Once you have won a category, you will no longer be allowed to enter that category. The Professional’s Choice award will be chosen from the above categories.
Dress: Think of simple elegance, something to be worn with a suit or slacks. May include initials, brand, collar, and/or tooling only.
Wooden Shoes For Sale If you’ve had an overwhelming desire to make wooden shoes all your life, now’s your chance! What a great part-time, at home business!
Artistry: Anything goes in this category—any leather, any design, any design details, etc. Let your imagination go! Masters: Anyone who has won each class (excluding Journeyman) will only be allowed to enter the Masters category. The guidelines for the Masters will change from year to year, allowing judges to compare boots with the same genre, comparing quality and workmanship. You may enter any of the above categories (other than Journeyman) that you have not
America’s last master wooden shoe carver (88 years old) has a complete set of tools available and will teach you the craft. Contact: Bob Siegel at (262) 242-1571, e-mail: woodenshoecarver@milwpc.com.
Pedorthic Footcare Association ◘ PFA’s 54th Annual Symposium and Exhibition will take place this coming Oct. 31-Nov. 2, 2013, at the John B. Hynes Memorial Con-
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June 2013
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Just Ask!
vention Center and the Sheraton Boston Hotel. For all the details call (703) 610-9035 or look online at www.pedorthics.org. ◘ PFA has an online newsletter, “PFA Online.” Find out more at www.pedorthics.org. SSIA 2013
SHATA Members do it all
ANPIC The largest leather, accessory, and footwear trade show in North America will be held this coming November in Leon, Mexico. You need lasts? They have lasts! It’s always a great education. You can find the exact dates for the next ANPIC show at www.anpic.com, e-mail: feria@anpic.com.
On the Lookout. . . James Berry at (812) 897-2614 needs an operator’s manual for a Sutton Landis McKay 600 L. You might give a call to Gateway Shoe Machine at (800) 752-7897.
◗ ◗ ◗ ◗
Prototypes Custom Work & Repair Short Runs Special Projects
For a full list of SHATA members available for contract work, contact:
Saddle, Harness & Allied Trades Association PO Box 17817 • Asheville NC 28816 ph 828-505-8474 email: shoptalk@proleptic.net www.Proleptic.net
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June 2013 |
39
A Look at Shoe Repair in Another Country
International Shoe Repair Show Wiesbaden, Germany by Dana Huval, C. Ped, Huval’s Boot & Shoe Repair
T
hree years ago a group of repairers from Chicago, St Louis, and Lakeland, Florida, along with their wholesaler ventured over to Europe to attend the Wiesbaden Inter-SchuhService Show held tri-annually. During their stay they also flew over to Malaga, Spain, to tour David Moran’s warehouse. They brought back so many new things that a number of repairers planned to go in 2013. This year’s group included Steve Sachs with I. Sach’s Wholesale Co. in Chicago, Randy Lipson
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and Joe Caufield each having a Cobblestone Shoe Repair in St. Louis (Chesterfield and Ladue), Janet and Gaylon Harden from Southwest Boot and Shoe Repair in Wichita Falls, Texas, and Texas Best Boot and Shoe Repair in Amarillo, Texas,-and me. We also had other repairers joining us at different places during our amazing eight-day trip. The Wiesbaden Shoe Repair Show was only a few blocks from our hotel so we could just walk to the show which had 90 booths with products from shoe laces, machinery, soles, sole guards, toplifts, glue leather, keys and key cutting machines. Like in the USA, there were a few computer companies with shoe repair programs with one mainly for orthopedic type shops. It was so nice to see so many items that cater to shoe repair. They also had a few shoe shiners who kept their stands busy because they had someone in the chair every time I passed by them. Two men
June 2013
Shop Talk!
were also showing how they hand make their boots. The only machine they had was an extremely old wood pegging machine. One of the gentlemen showed me how it worked. Loud but fascinating. I was truly impressed with the elaborate displays the suppliers and distributors had created. Many of the suppliers there were more than happy to give samples and hand out their catalogs if they had one. By offering us these samples we have a chance to try them before we buy them. One mistake one of our group made when flying back to the states was to carry his cream polish with him which was, unfortunately, taken when he went through customs. Next time he’ll pack his samples in his suitcase! The USA was represented with a dozen or so shoes repairers and four wholesalers. If you buy items from Steve Sachs with I. Sachs in Chicago, Dennis Queen with J. Weiner in Virginia, Steve Bomono with Frankford Leather in Philly, or Dave Baltor at O. Baltors in San Francisco, they should have some new items to offer you shortly. The show also offers a contest for shoe repair, shoe and boot making along with some very unusual shoes . The repaired and custom shoes and boots were in locked glass cases. That was smart thinking; we could see but not touch. Sunday morning they held an award ceremony to give out their medals and honorable mentions in the large number of categories they offer. Some of the USA winners included: Jim McFarland from Lakeland Florida, Jules Van Pascel, and Lisa Sorrel from Guthrie, Oklahoma.
Some winning entries had elaborate tooling and/or painted work on the soles of their shoes. (I wonder if they ever wear them.) One gold Jim McFarland and Maria DeMit winner had a frog showing the silver medal they won. tooled on the sole of his shoe. I would think that takes much more time than the shoe repair itself. Ten countries won awards in the different contests. One medal winner was a young man only 21 years of age. If all goes well, I hope to be back in 2016.
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Hans Biglajzer The best English Saddle Maker
by Jennifer Fulford, West Coast Bureau Chief
M
ake no mistake, Hans Biglajzer’s workshop is closed. You won’t find him in Bend, OR, making saddles. You won’t find his vanity displayed on the Internet (at least, not by his own doing). He hung up the saddle making tools for good last year after decades of dedicating himself to crafting high-end English saddles. “I’ve done my share,” he says. Biglajzer, 87, says he set out to do what he wanted to do: be the best English saddle maker. At the height of his business, he finished a saddle a week. He does a quick mental calculation that for twenty-eight consecutive years he kept up that pace, producing hundreds of custom saddles tailored to his clients and their horses. “My whole idea in this business when I got on my own was, you may be good at it, but you aren’t the best. I wanted to be the best,” he says. “I may brag about that, and I may be sounding selfish to some people, but I am. I got there.” His methods were fine tuned: he listened to his clients who often had special needs and repairs, and he made plaster casts of the horses to fit the saddle to the animal. In Oregon, where Western saddle making dominated the trade, he was somewhat of an anomaly. When he came to Oregon in the 1960s, he
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knew no other English saddle makers. Things haven’t changed much which has allowed him to keep his prices high, $5,000 to $6,000 a saddle, offer a verbal 20-year guarantee, and still have plenty of work without much advertising. “When I got to the West Coast, there wasn’t much English riding here. It was just starting,” he says. “I started a business, a workshop. I had a building behind my house that I made into a saddle shop. We were there forty years, thirtyeight years. I never made stock. I never had stock. I never sold any medications or bandages or bits, just saddles and bridles.” Biglajzer, a native of Germany, arrived in the United States in 1947. A Jewish survivor of the Holocaust, he came to New York to restart his life. He doesn’t like to focus on that part of his history. Wrinkling his brow, he says, “Don’t go there. It stopped when I got off the boat.” He makes his point because he learned his craft mainly in the years after he arrived in the United States. He worked in the Kopf leather factory in Manhat-
June 2013
Shop Talk!
“Saddles sounded good to me. I had very little choice,” he says. “I didn’t know I was going to get a job. I learned a lot in that shop in New York.”
tan for about a decade. Though the company doesn’t exist today, the types of saddles he learned to make there are popular now. English riding has grown into a significant sport across the country since Biglajzer’s formative years at Kopf. (Kopf manufactured ULite buckles for bridles which are no longer on the market.) “I had never worked on racing equipment,” he says of the early days in New York. “I had worked on saddles, some of them. We were six or seven guys on the saddle floor, making saddles all the time, from racing saddles to exercise saddles, where they train the racehorses.” His dad was a ladies’ tailor and a furrier, and, when WWII broke out, his family was persecuted and eventually torn apart. Beginning at age 14, he spent several years in a Jewish ghetto and in concentrations camps at Dachau and Auschwitz. He survived because he was singled out to work on leather goods, specifically packing gear, for Nazis soldiers. Being a teenager, the job was his first introduction to leather working. He lost his family during the war but the leather skills served him well later, especially when he had to declare a career to immigrate.
828.665.7060 828.665.7067 fax 1.877.665.7060 order line bucklebarnusa@charter.net www.bucklebarnusa.com
BUCKLE BARN USA 145 Vanderbilt Terrace Asheville, NC 28806
As a 21-year-old in the New York of the late 1940s, Biglajzer lived an eye-opening experience. He rented a furnished basement flat, worked in sweatshop-like conditions, yet saw the bounty of a booming post-WWII economy. “Here was a little kid, didn’t speak the language, in the biggest city in the world,” he remembers. “I thought I was in seventh heaven.” He doesn’t regret having left his native land. “I wanted to get away from that place. I was there two years after the war. I worked on a farm because that’s where the food was,” he says. “I said, ‘I
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“My whole idea in this business when I got on my own was, you may be good at it, but you aren’t the best. I wanted to be the best,” am out of here. I don’t want to be in this part of the world anymore. I’ve seen so much hate and killing. It’s just not civilized. And they call themselves ‘civilized people.’ ” After Manhattan and a short stay in the North Carolina horse racing scene where he met his wife Doris, they relocated to Oregon in 1962 where he found work as an English saddle maker. A few years later, he decided to open his own
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shop, without the assistance of a bank loan, and launched his own successful business. He never went back to working for anyone again. Word of mouth improved his good fortune which he attributes to his quality workmanship. He used steel and plywood saddle trees from England and leather from Hermann Oak. He was picky about his trees, the thickness of his saddle leather and the webbing in the seat. He used only linen flax which he swears has very little give.
June 2013
Shop Talk!
Over the years, he’s been courted by prestigious leather companies such as Hermes of Paris. His clients have come from up and down the West Coast and Canada and from as far away as New Jersey. A decorative English saddle in white leather is on display somewhere in a Las Vegas casino. Hard-to-source materials were making it more difficult and expensive to stay in the game. And getting older meant slowing down. His wife passed away in early December 2012. Kids and grandkids and great grandkids are nearby. None are going into the family business. Hans talks a good jaunt and is doing some
consulting with a few interested parties, one of which is a company that bought out most of his shop. A shoe designer out of Oregon City is having Biglajzer reveal his secrets which he says he doesn’t keep to himself. “I never was one to keep secrets from somebody else,” Biglajzer says, though he admits to rarely taking on students or apprentices. “Most of these saddle shops, they don’t tell each other nothing.” Though he isn’t taking orders, Hans Biglajzer is willing to talk and can be reached at (541) 318-5410.
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Treeless Saddles
Trend in Natural Horsemanship Boosts Popularity and Sales
by Lynn Ascrizzi
F
or Candace “Candy” L. Kahn, of Jacksonville, OR, the winding trail that led her to becoming a leading U.S. retailer and distributor of treeless saddles began with her love of riding shoeless horses. “I wanted to show other endurance riders that they could ride their horse barefoot,” she said. For her horses, the alternative to iron shoes was slipover, polyurethane hoof boots. “With the boots, the horse can feel its feet. They can move more naturally,” she said. She and other horse boot advocates believe that metal shoes can distort and damage the hoof. A concern for natural hoof care prompted her to sell hoof boots online. “I began with EasyCare. When I started in 2004, there was not much out there,” she said. The boots did so well, that in the same year, she expanded her small business to include treeless saddles. “I had been riding treeless since 2001. At the time, people thought I was crazy. No trees? No shoes?” In fact, treeless saddles have been around for centuries, she noted. But with the advent of new materials in the 1980s, treeless innovations began to leap ahead. Today, saddle makers all over the world are making treeless designs. Basically, a treeless saddle is not built around a rigid, wooden or synthetic tree. Unlike treed designs, there is no gullet, so saddle pads are widely used to prevent the rider’s weight from pressing against the horse’s spine. Pommels and cantles are made of rubber, wood or fiberglass. Seats are constructed in various ways, with thick pads or panels of leather, foam, vinyl, or fleece. Designs vary, but generally, the treeless saddle is lightweight and flexible, allowing it to adjust
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to the movement of the horse. “Treeless saddles conform to the horse’s shape. They make the horse more comfortable,” Candy said. “On a treeless saddle, you have a lower center of gravity. You have more contact with the horse and sit behind the horse’s withers — the same position as riding bareback. “The horse knows where you are, and you know where the horse is. It’s a whole new experience. I think riding in a treeless saddle makes you a better rider. The rider may have to acquire new muscle memory and different muscles. It takes a little time to make an adjustment,” she commented. Today, her passion to make the riding experience comfortable for both rider and horse has grown into three successful treeless saddle enterprises: • Action Rider Tack. A retail store, located at 255 E. Barnett Road, Suite 104, Medford, OR, 97501; (541) 773-6300 or (877) 865-2467 (actionridertack.com) • Athletic Equine, LLC. A wholesale business that designs and distributes innovative equine products. Based at the above location, it is co-owned by Christopher Martin. (athleticequine.com) • Barefoot Saddles USA. Kahn is the American importer and distributor of Barefoot Saddles, a company based in Hirschhorn, Germany. She also retails their saddles, leather goods, saddle pads, and other products at her store. (barefootsaddlesusa.com) “We have the world’s largest selection of treeless saddles,” she said. She also carries some treed saddles, such as those made by Tekna Saddlery International, Ltd., and by Pampa Saddles of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her saddle sales, she said, are increasing 10 to 15 percent per year. That growth, she believes, reflects
June 2013
Shop Talk!
material, and Pampa, whose saddles are made of carbon fiber and Kevlarr. “It’s difficult to get a quality synthetic leather. If you make it durable, it is unattractive. If you have a synthetic matreial that does look nice, it doesn’t have the durability,” Candy, 65, said.
a surge in the natural horsemanship movement that kicked in about eleven years ago. “People have become more conscious that their horse’s comfort comes first,” she said of her business philosophy. Besides saddles, the 5,000-sq.ft. Medford store, which includes two offices and a warehouse, offers other horse gear such as bits, bridles, saddle pads, hoof boots, horse blankets and sheets, girths and cinches, reins, stirrups, grazing muzzles, tack room and grooming supplies and saddle packs— a onestop shop for equestrians. Plans are underway to expand the store. “We need more room,” she said.
Currently, she and her husband, Larry Kahn, and their six horses, live on Painted Sky Ranch in Jacksonville, OR, a 55 acre paradise surrounded by the Siskiyou Mountains. The rolling terrain boasts of historic, Old West landmarks, silver mines, nearby Crater Lake, big sky—and yes— lots of horse country. “There are lots of trails. Our horses have all different shapes — Arabs, half-Arabs, Paint, and Fox Trotter. They’ve got all different backs and
The Art and Craft of Leather 160 pp. Color. Hardcover
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Annually, she retails 200 to 300 saddles and wholesales about 200. Saddles, saddle accessories, and saddle pads make up about 55 percent of her business. Hoof protection and riding apparel account for roughly 10 percent of sales each. Tack and other items make up the rest. Bridles, reins, and other tack are made of synthetic Beta or Biothane. “We sell a lot of Taylored Tack,” she said of the company in Birchrunville, PA, owned and operated by Amanda Taylor. “It’s all handmade and used by endurance and competitive riders. Most endurance riders use tack made from Beta and Biothane. When you come back from a ride, you just hose off the tack.” The great majority of the saddle brands she carries, however, are made of leather, ranging from Italian calfskin to German leather to nubuck. Two exceptions are saddles by Tekna, fabricated from QuickClean™, an anti-mold, abrasion resistant synthetic
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Much more than just another “how-to” book!
• Eight Projects •Chapters on Tanning, Tools, Equipment, History of Leather Art & more • Spanish authors offer unique slant on leather working techniques, molding & finishing.
PO Box 17817 • Asheville NC 28816 • (828) 505-8474 • fax (828) 505-8476 shoptalk@proleptic.net • www.proleptic.net
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June 2013 |
47
shapes. I use my horses for testing saddles,” she said.
A Design Evolution For the past decade, designs in treeless saddles have undergone a rapid evolution, Candy said. “It’s dramatic. There are so many more treeless saddles to choose from. There are innovations every year in designs. More and more riders are riding treeless.” In fact, a new saddle she is carrying exclusively this year is called Evolution, manufactured by Le Selle Italiane of Verona, Italy (leselleitaliane.com), a small, family-run company that created the Freeform saddle. “Evolution takes some of the best aspects of several of their saddles they manufactured such as Torsion and Ghost and Freeform,” she said, noting that she has made trips to Italy to visit the saddlery. Le Selle is the first saddler to use foam injection molding technology. Their Freeform saddle is an anatomically shaped, one-piece foam mold, covered in Italian calfskin leather. A flexible aluminum arch in the front part of the detachable seat provides wither clearance, according to the website, treelesssaddle.com. Treeless saddle designs come in both English and Western styles. Other leading treeless brands she carries are:
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(540) 879-9260
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• Barefoot Saddles: Hirschhorn, Germany. Designed by a German equine physiotherapist. Lightweight, all-purpose, dressage, and Western style saddles are made of open pored, vegetable tanned nubuck leather and designed with a patented, soft layering system. (barefoot-saddles.com) • Black Forest Treeless Saddles— Black Diamond, WA. They market English and Western style saddles made of nubuck and synthetic leather, including an innovative design with an interchangeable pommel for both Western and English endurance style riding. (blackforest.com) • Enlightened Equitation—North Devon, England. Heather Moffett soft treed saddles, English, and Western style constructed with memory foam padding. • Ansür —Washougal, WA. Makers of English, dressage, and Western style saddles. (ansursaddle.com) • Hildago—Engerwitzdorf, Austria. A wide range of Spanish, Portuguese, treeless, dressage, endurance saddles including a saddle with flexible leather tree. (hidalgo-sattel.com) • Startrekk—Deuber & Partner Saddlemaker of Germany. English, dressage, endurance, Western, and Iberian-Portuguese style saddles, made of German leather. English models have wool flocked panels; others have removable/replaceable panels. (deuber-partner.com)
Lasting Quality and Style Matte Finishes Many Colors
Easy Cleaning Easy Sewing Durable, Flexible
BETTER PRODUCTS & BETTER PRICES
P.O. Box 593, Columbia Station, OH 44028 Voice: 800-357-5070 Fax 440-243-5326 Email daves@firstlocal.net Website www.ohiothane.com
June 2013
Shop Talk!
Her bestsellers are Freeform and Barefoot. Prices range roughly from $600 to $4,000, Candy said. Moreover, each brand has its signature style and construction, and not all treeless saddles are created equally. The construction of Freeform, for instance, includes an adjustable stirrup attachment that permits stirrup leather placement suitable for the rider, Y-girthing that “spreads the pressure of the girth across the entire saddle, [and] a cutback option that prevents chafing on a high-withered horse,” said to work equally well on wide shouldered horses and those with various body types, according to the company at freeformusa.com. “You can determine your leg position. The quality of leather calfskin is great. They’re hand built,” according to Candy.
Repair Challenges Quality saddles that are well taken of should last for many years. But extensive riding can cause wear and tear, and treeless designs are no exception. “On saddles, the billets are usually the first to go. Sometimes the crupper ring comes out,” said Julie Campell, product specialist for Candy’s store, Action Rider Tack. Saddles are sent to manufacturers for repair only if there is a warranty issue, Candy said. “We’ve had only two of those, in all these years in business. Your local saddle maker or cobbler can do repairs.” Kate LeRoyer of Freeport Harness and Saddlery in Pownal, Maine, has been repairing both Western and English saddles and other horse gear for twelve years, including a number of treeless saddles. In fact,
she rides a Bob Marshall Western style treeless saddle on her quarter horse/thoroughbred cross. Repairing treeless saddles can bring its unique challenges, she observed. “I worked on one saddle that was challenging. I found that the materials used were not typical of other saddles. There were different types of hardware — a type of plastic fastener. The whole manner of construction is quite different with treeless, and it’s good to know how it [the saddle] is all put together,” she said. In this instance, she contacted the saddle maker directly, but found they were “not forthcoming” about their patented saddle designs, “such as the way the billets were secured inside the layers of the saddle,” she said. So she researched the patents online and found diagrammatic drawings that proved helpful. “I do a lot of my repair work by hand,” Kate said but noted that some treeless saddle repairs might require machines she does not have. “What is interesting about treeless saddles is that each brand has a different approach in terms of construction and physics—the handling of a rider’s weight. It’s hard to generalize. It might not be something that failed with the saddle; it might be more of an adjustment, the way the stirrup hangs….The stitching can let go on any saddle. With wear and use, things let go. Treeless saddles are not necessarily more expensive to fix,” she said.
Pros and Cons Treeless saddles offer some advantages over treed, such as comfort, flexibility, and bringing the rider closer to the movement of the horse.
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June 2013 |
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But not everyone will want to ride treeless, said Candy. “The treed saddle has been around for ages; treeless is not meant to replace it. You wouldn’t want to use a treeless saddle for polo or for jumping if you’re going over a 6 foot jump. If you’re offbalance, with all the weight on one side, there is no rigid tree to make that saddle stay in place, although, treeless jumping saddles are coming out.” Opponents argue that treeless saddles can create their own pressure points over time and “can cause as many problems as an ill-fitting saddle,” according to an article in Wikipedia. Without a supportive tree, the article states, “a rider can be put behind the movement of the horse, creating pressure on its loins or cause a rider’s seat bones to dig into the horse’s back.” “Any equipment can break down over time,” Candy said. “A rider needs to be aware and check their equipment. Pads break down. You need to watch.”
In 2008, a small, two-day study conducted by The Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) that used a German designed pressure mapping system concluded that there is no advantage to using a treeless over a treed saddles. In most cases, a well fitted treed version may be more beneficial to the horse than a treeless saddle, the English study said. Candy disagrees. “Consider the range of motion on the horse’s shoulder, which can be as much as five inches,” she said. “Treed saddles can get in the way of the horse’s natural shoulder movement. With a treeless, there is no hard tree to inhibit or damage the shoulder. The rider is sitting behind the center of gravity, in the same position as riding bareback. If a horse is going downhill in a treed saddle, it often takes mincing steps because the tree is jamming its shoulder. But with a treeless that doesn’t happen.”
At the Stable Lynn Hendrickson, a professional riding instructor, uses both treed and treeless saddles. She is co-owner of Black Fox Farm in Richmond, Maine, with her husband Bob Martineau. At the farm, she also boards horses in a 36-by-50foot stable. The Maine Farm Bureau has recognized her horse barn, riding ring, and fields as a “Horse Farm of Merit.” Also a graphic artist, she runs her business, Design-On-Demand, from an office in her home. Three out of her four boarders ride treeless, she said. But when it come to riding instructions, “it depends on the comfort level and experience of the student, whether I start them in a treed or treeless saddle. Actually, I find the treed saddle gives more support to the rider,” she said. Lynn, 48, owns two treeless saddles, a Western style Black Forest and an English style Barefoot. “I like how the rider can feel the movement of the horse. I’ve had them for about three years. They’ve held up well; in fact, one was used when I bought it,” she said. Other treeless saddles she has ridden are Enlightened Equitation, an all-purpose, English style and Bob Marshall, a Western style trail saddle. Her favorite is the Barefoot. She also owns two treed saddles—Western and English.
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“Treeless saddles are significantly lighter. They’re more maneuverable— easier to get it on the horse. I’d rather not be huffing big saddles over really large horses,” she said, noting that treeless saddles can weigh from about seven to twenty pounds, with the Western style the heaviest. “They [treeless] are less than the half the weight of the traditional treed saddle,” she said. She also owns “three horses, a mule named Eli, a round, fat pony and too many donkeys,” she said. “With treeless, I don’t have to have different saddles for different animals. I use my treeless saddles on all of them, even with my mutton withered mule. My tack room isn’t cluttered up with saddles,” she said. “Once you try a treeless, you’d be surprised how quickly it becomes your favorite saddle. Mostly, I ride in my treeless more than my treed. But it depends on what kind of riding you’re doing. I think there will always be room for both.”
directly on the spine,” she said. “I think there are a lot of misconceptions about treeless,” she added. “People think slippage is going to be an issue. It can be, but that issue can be corrected.” A lot of the treed vs. treeless debate boils down to proper saddle fitting she believes. “A professional saddle fitter is one way to resolve that. The saddle fitter comes to you. They need to see the saddle on the horse. Or you can go to go to a saddle fitter’s clinic.” For a useful book on the subject she recommended, “The Horse’s Pain-Free Back and Saddle-Fit Book,” by Joyce Harman DVM, MRCVS (2004 Trafalgar Square Publishing, VT). Or she suggested going to saddlingsolutions.com/ Fitting.html.
Treeless saddles are similar to shoes in their construction, she explained. “Break-in time is minimized. A lot of endurance riders really like them. They’re also appropriate if you have a young horse that is still developing its musculature,” she said. For the treeless rider who weighs over 200 pounds, or for people who are going to spend a lot of time in the saddle, she recommended special treeless saddle pads like Equipedic, Skito, and Grandeur. “It allows spinal clearance so the person’s weight is not
Shop Talk!
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To contact Candy Kahn, visit Action Rider Tack, 255 E. Barnett Road, Suite 104, Medford, OR, 97501, or call (541) 773-6300 or (877) 865-2467. See also www.actionridertack.com or email info@ actionridertack.com. Contact Freeport Harness and Saddlery at (207) 865-4813 or by email kateandjim@freeportharnessandsaddlery.com. To reach Lynn Hendrickson, write Black Fox Farm LLC, Richmond, ME, 04357. Online at www. blackfoxfarm.com. Call (207) 798-3003 or see www.findyourinnercowgirl.com.
June 2013
Shop Talk!
News, Notes & Queries
Business and updates and happenings
Big News at TIMCO
New Name for BioPlastics!
Those guys at TIMCO keep coming up with new ideas, new products, and now a new, bigger, better facility! And ask about their new spotting machine—it’s a beauty! The new address is: TIMCO Corp., 1551 Central St., Stoughton, MA 02072. Everything else remains the same: phone (781) 8211041 x 203, (866) 821-1041 x 203, fax (781) 4363498, e-mail: tim@timcocorporation.com, www. timcocorporation.com.
Wow—goodbye BioPlastics, HELLO BioThane Coated Webbing! That’s the new name. Same great products. Also—did you know that BioThane also offers fabrication services? They do! They have a 10,000 sq. ft. fabrication facility and all the equipment they need to cut, punch, rivet, weld, laser engrave, and print. Get all the details at (877) 588-2358. One product they fabricate for customers is dog collars. You no longer need to ship your materials overseas! Call today and get a quote!
Hide House Hosts Major Supplier
We stock over 1,000 types & colors of leather!
New & Improved Full Color Catalog Upon Request
Featuring: Chap Leather (125 colors available),
Recently, Rob Deits, owner of The Hide House in Napa, CA, along with his staff played host to one of his major supplier of saddlery leathers and latigo, Jorge Solis, owner of Teneria Tannery in Orizaba, Mexico. Accompanying Jorge was his US distributor, Jeff Ballard of Thoroughbred Leather. While there Jorge and Jeff consulted with Rob about the current line of leathers they provide Hide House, some of which is tanned exclusively for the company. They also discussed possible new leathers that Hide House would like to add its inventory in the near future. Welcome to the United States, Jorge!
Embossed Cow Sides, Garment & Hair-On Hides, Genuine Buffalo, Genuine Salz Latigo, Harness Leather, Metallic Cow Sides, Patent Leather, Skirting, Strap & Upholstery Leathers Complete line of decorative accessories & full line of leather crafting tools.
Become a Preferred Customer:
Benefits of becoming a preferred customer: Very best pricing for the leathers you use the most. Receive immediate notification of leathers going on sale. Added luxury of choosing only leathers that interest you, thus eliminating unwanted emails. Notification of new products and services as they become available ensures the personal service you deserve. Logon to www.hidehouse.com 595 Monroe St., Napa, CA 94559 888-HIDE-HOUSE Fax: 800-255-6160 hideinfo@hidehouse.com
l
Left to right: Sal, Ginny, Jen, Patti, Kim, Shanee, Domingo, Jeff Ballard, Rob Deits, Jorge Solis, Roger
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New Distributor for Wickett & Craig One of W&C’s new distributors is a familiar name to most of us—Coblentz Collar in Millersburg, OH. What a great company to rep great leather in a great location! For all the details and to place your order today, please call Marion at (330) 8933858. Send me a roll—or make that two!
We Give You 100% If you’ve abandoned print advertising and stopped publishing a catalog or sending out the occasional flyer, then, my high-tec friend, you are failing to reach at the very minimum 22% of your potential customers. 22%!!!!!!!!!!! Am I kidding you? No—I am not. Statistics from the US Census state that about 78% of US households own computers—whether or not they know how to use them is another matter. And how many of that 78% use them to do business and find supplies is yet another matter. I bet my buddy Ben Day owns a computer and about the only thing he uses it for is to play silly card games! Even my friends at Buggy Builders Bulletin have a computer but it ain’t even plugged in! I think the youngins play “pretend TV” when their folks aren’t home! That’s why Shop Talk! still remains viable, relevant, and robust! Friend, here’s the TRUTH: WE REACH THEM ALL!!! We give 100% exposure. We reach the “unreachables”—shops that don’t have a computer, a phone, electricity or even a coffee maker. But here’s the kicker—one thing they do got is MONEY and happy to spend it on the supplies and equipment they need for their businesses. When you turn your back on them, you’re telling them, “Go away and spend your money someplace else—I DON’T WANT IT!” And we reach all those bright, happy people texting their lives away on those little handheld monstrosities. We’ve got state-of-the-art web sites, My Buyer’s Guide! is online and completely searchable, and Shop Talk! is also ONLINE— we’ve gone digital! We are so modern and cool! We are “with it”! So whether you’re completely modern and want your news online or you’re an old fuddy-duddy and still like paper, WE’VE GOT IT ALL! Who else gives you 100%? 54 |
Open House at R J Matthews There’s a one-day open house at R J Matthews Co. this coming June 18 in Massillon, OH. 10 am to 7 pm. There’s a cash and carry discount. Matthews is a great wholesale source for lots of animal health and related products. For directions and all the details please call Casey Holton, R J Matthews Co. sales representative at (800) 578-9234 x 1125 or e-mail: cholton@rjmatthews.com to make your reservations today. RSVP encouraged by Tuesday, June 11, 2013, but not required.
Harness Makers’ Get-Together This year’s auction will take place on July 18 and the Get-Together on the 19th. The auction is always a full day event because there’s always a lot of stuff to sell and there’s always something for everyone regardless of the sort of leather work you do—shoe repair, saddle making, belt making, and, of course, harness making! This is the 44th Get-Together and it will be hosted by the fine folks at Hilltop Tack Supply, 133 Welding Dr., Rebersburg, PA 16872, (814) 349-4479. There’s always a impressive group of vendors at the Get-Together, demonstrating an impressive array of wholesale products, equipment, and supplies—everything from horse medications to sewing machines! It’s a great place to meet a whole new type of clientele. And it was GREAT to see all the tanners and leather suppliers back at the Get-Together last year. They’ve been keeping a low profile for a few years so it’s nice to see them coming back and pressing the flesh—we missed you!
Carriage Makers’ Get-Together Yes, buggy builders get together to swap tall tales just like harness and saddle makers! No matter who you talk to they’ve all built carriages for either Disney World or Anheuser-Busch! Ha! Or both. This year’s gathering will be on July 19th at Nolt’s Carriage Shop, 750 Mud Level Rd., Shippensburg, PA 17257. Most of these folks upholster their own work which means they run sewing machines and need needles and thread!
Next Carriage Auction Martin Auctioneers will hold their next big auc-
June 2013
Shop Talk!
tion this coming October 18-19. For all the details to attend or consign, contact: P O Box 99, New Holland, PA 17557, (717) 354-6671, www.martinauctioneers.com.
Super Slide Loops and Keepers It’s just the best thing in the world when you have bins full of nicely boxed, ready-made keepers that you can “grab and go”! Makes your work so much easier and the leather keepers (or slide loops) that Troyer’s Harness makes are just the best! They’ve been creased, pressed, and have a top coat so they look great. And Troyer’s uses SB staples so they look nice and there’s no rust. Several different colors from which to choose. And you always dye to match if need be. Hey—and you can even use them with bio and nylon. Why not? So regardless of the work that you’re doing, if you use keepers then why not contact Troyer’s Harness for a sample? You’ll be impressed! Contact: 4999 Township Road 367, Millersburg, OH 44654, (330) 893-9850 voice mail.
For Sale: Yoder’s Collar If you’re thinking about going into the collar business, then you had better give Rueben at Yoder’s Collar Shop a shout! Call (641) 442-2517. That’s HORSE collars!
Sales & Auctions—Plan Now!! Hey! If you have an auction or sale coming up and are thinking about running an ad in Shop Talk! then you need to have your ad in the magazine at least 60 days before the event. 60 days. That’s the policy! So get ahead and plan ahead and give us a shout! Thanks! Contact: Shop Talk!, P O Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816, (828) 505-8474, email: shoptalk@proleptic.net.
Artisan Sewing Supplies—On the Move Artisan has a new showroom in San Francisco! The address is 1340 Howard St., San Francisco, CA 94103, (323) 838-1408, (888) 838-1408, fax (323) 838-1508, e-mail: info@artisansew.com. Doors open June 3rd and store hours are 8:30 to 4:30 pm, West Coast time. The showroom is also opened one Saturday a month so call ahead for an appointment. Stop by and see the full line of Artisan sewing machines and leather equipment.
American Craft Expands Buyer and exhibitor attendance at the Buyers Market of American Craft increased in 2013 with a 23% rise in the number of first time exhibitors. With 774 exhibiting companies showing products made in the US and Canada—6% more than 2012—the Buyers Market trade show held in February 2013 attracted 2,500 wholesale buyers. Almost half of the buyers surveyed after the show said they had purchased more than they did the year before. The 2014 show will be expanded to four days, Saturday-Tuesday, January 18-21, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. For more show details visit www.AmericanMadeShow.com, call (800) 432-7238, or e-mail: info@rosengrp.com.
Leather Training in the US By popular demand, BLC Leather Technology Centre Ltd., a world leader in leather expertise and materials testing, is presenting a “One Day Understanding Leather” training course in four US locations. The course provides an insight into where leather comes from, leather production, leather types, how and why we test leather, and an overview of what can go wrong. Attendees will also be helped to understand and identify defects in leather and what may have caused them. There will be an opportunity to discuss any issues you may have been faced with in your professional role. Hopefully, the course will help buyers to better communicate with their suppliers and customers. The course looks like it will cost in the neighborhood of $475. It’s schedule to be held in Boston on September 12; Los Angeles on October 24; and Portland, OR, on October 29. For more details and to register, please visit www. blcleathertech.com or contact tracey@blcleathertech.com. BLC is based in the UK and may be reached by telephone at +44 (0) 1604 679999.
Reflocking and English Saddle Classes To get the details for the next classes, please contact Annette Gavin at 1684 Hendershot Rd., Warfordsburg, PA 17267, (717) 294-6757, www.hastilowusa.com.
If You Snooze, You Lose! If you been meaning to and putting it off year after year after year and never getting around to having a saddle
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ready to take to Wichita Falls, TX, for the Saddle Contest that takes place at the Roundup, then you had better give your sorry self a shake and get busy, Lizzie! October is NOT as far away as you might think. Every year the Roundup hosts a really fine saddle making contest and contestants—men and women, girls and boys—vie for some serious prize money and other goodies. This year’s Roundup will take place on October 4-5. For all the details about what you need to do to enter, please contact Jim Taylor at (817) 625-2391, Texas time. Jim is the Shop Manager at Luskey’s/Ryon’s. I haven’t seen anything by Troy West for a couple years now and I guess I scared him off when I let him know that I was thinking about entering one of my own “special creations”. Troy—I’m calling you out! Either show up with a saddle or put on your spurs and start scratching with the chickens! Here are the categories and contest rules: Beginners—This is for people’s first saddle which must have been started after last year’s Roundup. Open Floral—Saddles entered in this category will be full or partial floral or oak leaf tooled. Geometrics (baskets, running w, waffle, etc.) may be incorporated. Prizes will be awarded for Best Workmanship and Best Tooling. Open Plain or Geometric—Saddles entered in this category will be full or partial smooth out, rough out, or geometric stamped (basket, running w, waffle, etc.). Saddles with tooled floral, tooled oak or decorative knife cuts must compete in the Open Floral Category. Prizes will be awarded for Best Workmanship and Best Tooling. Novice—This category was created to encourage less experienced saddle makers to show their work and compete on their own skill level. All saddles are eligible if the saddle maker has five years or less leather working experience, not by the number of saddles you’ve made. This is a true novice class. Prizes will be awarded for Best Novice. Best of Show—The saddle judged Best of Show may come from any of the above categories.
ANPIC The most important and largest leather, footwear, and accessory show in North America is ANPIC which takes place in Leon, Mexico, a city that boasts 100’s of tanneries and dozens of shoe and boot factories. The show attracts vendors 56 |
and attendees from around the world. Normally, ANPIC takes place in early November. Dates for the 2013 show have not yet been posted but you may check their web site which is www.anpic.com or e-mail: feria@anpic.com. While vendors cater primarily to manufacturers of footwear, you will also find booths offering heavier weights of chrome and veg in many styles and finishes as well as a heavy veg leathers including belting, sole leather, and skirting. Always a great show with lots of exotic leathers as well.
Must Attend Events in 2013 The next Weaver Consignment Auction will be held on June 19-20, 2013, in Mt. Hope, OH. (800) WEAVER-1. The 20th Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show will be held in Sheridan, WY, on May 17-18, hosted by The Leather Crafters Journal, 222 Blackburn St., Rhinelander, WI 54501, (888) 289-6409, www.leathercraftesjournal.com. 25th Boot & Saddle Makers’ Roundup in Wichita Falls, TX, October 4-5, 2013. Call (325) 356-3197.
On the Lookout. . . Malcolm Vance at (907) 554-2222 has an Ameri-
can Straight Needle and is looking for a source of liquid wax for his machine. Most machinery dealers sell some form of thread lube, more often than not it’s liquid silicone rather than the good old wax. However, for liquid wax you can contact Sellari Natural Wax at P O Box 58, Brownsville, TN 38012, (731) 772-1338, e-mail: tsellari@bellsouth. net. Sellari sells a variety of waxes as well as cleaning products. When in doubt, ask for Sellari! Glenn Miller at (757) 870-8385 needs a manual for a Chandler 146 darning machine. Please give him a shout if you can help. Mike Lubell is needing a manual for a Chandler fringing/pinking machine. If you can help, please give us a shout here at Shop Talk!—(828) 5058474, e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net. Thanks! Ray Dodge at (334) 707-8846, e-mail: raysouth1@ hotmail.com needs a manual for a Landis hand crank skiver. You might try Gateway Shoe Machine at (800) 752-7897. Moses Gingrich is looking for light duty type sewing machine parts and repair manuals for generic home sewing machines—mostly Singer or Singertype machines. Hmmmm. As far as the manuals,
June 2013
Shop Talk!
you might give a call to the folks at SouthStar Supply, P O Box 90147, Nashville, TN 37209, (800) 288-6739, e-mail: service@southstarsupply.com. Also ask about parts because they carry 1,000’s of them. You can reach Moses at (740) 742-2951. Harry Martin at (717) 445-4050, e-mail: info@ ahharness.com is looking for a phone number for Menno J. Miller at 2477 Orchard Rd., Hillsboro, KY 41049. Harry was told that Menno makes cutting dies and may have moved. Please give Harry a call if you can locate Menno—thanks! Elaine McKee at (780) 963-4515, e-mail: ebmckee@xplornt.com needs an operator’s manual for a Yakumo TDU-N62. Please give her a call if you can help--thanks! Mark Your Calendar! June 19-20: Weaver Consignment Auction, Mt. Hope, OH. (800) WEAVER-1 July 18-19: 44th annual Harness Makers’ GetTogether. Consignment auction on July 18. Get-
Together on 19th. Hosted by Hilltop Tack Supply, 133 Welding Dr., Rebersburg, PA 16872, (814) 349-4479. October 4-5: 25th Annual Custom Boot & Saddle Makers’ Roundup, Wichita Falls, TX. Contact: Eddie or Kathy Kimmel at Kimmel Boot, 2080 County Road 304, Comanche, TX 76442, (325) 356-3197, email: kimmels@cctc.net, www.bootandsaddlemakertradeshow.com.
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June 2013
BioPlastics_ShopTalk_Ad_May5.14rv.indd 1
MADE IN THE USA Shop Talk! 5/15/13 10:55 AM
Buy or sell or trade
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wanted Wanted: New subscribers from Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, and Virginia. Now is the time to renew! Give us a call at (828) 505-8474, e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net or visit www. proleptic.net.
Classifides Wanted: Draw gauges. Any condition. Parts and pieces. Contact: Shop Talk!, P O Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816, (828) 505-8474, e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net. Wanted: Bench equipment. Any condition. Skivers, splitters, pressers, spotters, etc. Also parts and pieces—bolts, frames, springs, blades. We pay shipping. Contact Shop Talk!, P.O. Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816, (828) 505-8474, e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net.
for sale Opportunity for a New Adenture in Nova Scotia, Canada? We have a highly successful leather manufacture/retail business with 25 years experience for sale. We are located on the Cabot Trail, www.cabottrail.travel, in an area of established artisans. Present owner plus experienced staff of 5 make contemporary leather products and museum reproductions. Includes equipment, furniture, web site, inventory of leather and finished goods.
North Ryceville Harness Shop 1390 Stoltzfus Ln. • Mechanicsville, MD 20659
nd Write us all for we will cafaction is better sat
C-480 Splitter. Excellent Condition. Converted to Air. Shipping available to Lancaster Co., PA or Weaver Auction (June 19-20)
Fre Brochuere
Extra Equipment For Sale:
• Union Lockstitch with stand. Good condition. Make offer. • Ferdinand Bull 16˝. Good condition.
Wholesale Manufacturer of Western Saddles, Strap Goods, Stirrups & Saddlebags Shop Talk!
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Turnkey operation. 2,342 sq. ft. may be leased from owner or the business can be relocated. Owner is retiring. Contact: bradschnurr@eastlink.ca. Complete Liquidation!!! 100’s and 100’s of items all priced to sell! Saddles, bridles, halters, buckets, etc. Heavy sewing machines and other equipment. Contact: Ben Day, Western Specialties, 3106 Cedar Dale Rd., Mt. Vernon, WA 98274, phone (360) 424-4464, fax (360) 428-2037. For Sale: Union Lockstitch (serial #6083), reconditioned 2012 with new table. Also, Adler 104, needs minor repairs. $1,750 for both. No delivery. You pick up. Creekbend Leatherworks, Central Texas. Joe Mingus (713) 824-1775.
468 CANAL ST., STE. 201, LAWRENCE, MA 01840
Chicago Screw Tool: Install and remove Chicago screws quickly and easily in the shop or on the trail. $16.95 + $4 SH. Call for wholesale pricing. Contact: JP’s Bridle & Equine Tack Tool, 26266 E. County Road 700 N., Easton, IL 62633, (309) 562-7266, e-mail: jp-equinetacktool@casscomm.com, www.jptacktool.com. For all your leather needs. Call Moser Leather (800) 874-1167 or (513) 889-0500. You can visit our website at www.moserleatherco.com. (R&B) For Sale: The Pro-Concho Turner: The only one in the U.S. Makes removal of decorative conchos a snap! Used with electric drill. Take the fuss and bother out of a difficult job with the Pro-Concho Turner! Saves time, makes money! Rubber gripper protects the concho and makes removal or installation easy. Only $29.00 plus $3.95 S&H, 6-inch steel shank, and rubber gripper. Ready to use! Contact: Proleptic, Inc., P.O. Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816, (828) 505-8474, e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net. For Sale: “Making Harness: A Step-by-Step Guide”, $58 plus $5.50 S&H. Specs and instructions on how to make and repair six styles of harness from pony to draft, driving, team wagon and mule. Contact: Proleptic, Inc., P.O. Box 17817, Asheville, NC 28816, (828) 505-8474, e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net, www.proleptic.net. For Sale: Consumers expect more for their dollar. Give them more with Wickett & Craig leathers. Value, quality and durability. Made in the USA. Contact: 1-800-TANNERY—your leather hotline. (03/10) For Sale: Pricing Guide: “How to Establish Prices for the Saddle Maker and Leather Worker.” Only $39.95 plus $4.50 S&H. Contact: (828) 505-8474. (12/12) Cruppers all sizes—mini, horse, draft. New clutches for line shafts $110 fob. Contact: Miller’s Wholesale Harness & Stitchmaster Machines, 350 Spruce Pine Rd., Columbia, KY 42728. For Sale: New and used Adler, Brother, Consew, Juki, Pfaff, Singer machines for sewing bio-plastic, canvas, leather and
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nylon. Available in single or double needles, standard, long arm, flatbed, postbed, cylinder arm. Contact: Bob Kovar, Toledo Industrial Sewing Machine, 3631 Marine Rd., Toledo, OH 43609, (866) 362-7397 or (419) 380-8540. (11/10) For Sale: Tools for the Professional—Ol’ Smoothie swivel knives, blades, stamping tools, and more. Contact: Chuck Smith Tools, Smith & Co., P O Box 2647, Valley Center, CA 92082. (760) 749-5755. Fax (760) 749-5355. E-mail: olsmoothie@sbcglobal.net. (R&B) Books by Pete Gorrell (719) 695-4443, e-mail: hpgorrell@ gmail.com. “Floral Pattern Drawing for the Artistically Impaired” $18.95. “The Basics of Saddle Fit” $21.95. “The Business of Saddle Making” $12.50. S&H $3.50. Shipping by USPS rates. Also available from Proleptic, Inc. at (828) 5058474, e-mail: shoptalk@proleptic.net; Leather Wranglers at (505) 269-8563, e-mail: leatherwranglers.com; Sheridan Leather Outfitters at (888) 803-3030. (R&B) www.theleatherguy.org for all your leather, tool, and supply needs. Friendly, helpful staff at (507) 932-3795. (R&B)
Notice: We will make belts for your store. Wholesale only. For prices call (717) 656-9838. Adler sewing machine for sale. Model 67GA-373. Made in Germany. $500 OBO. Contact: Ezra Hershberger VM (641) 664-2751. For Sale: New brass harness hdw.—gag swivels, trace carriers, layer loops, #200 snaps, #5705 buckles, #545 Conways. Will sell for 2/3rds of new price. Plus shipping. Write for list and prices: Glick’s Harness Shop, 7412 Blair Rd., Fredericktown, OH 43019. For Sale: Union Lockstitch serial #6150. From Weaver Leather. Six bobbins, wrenches, two extra presser feet, needles, thread, motor, and stand. In excellent working condition. $3,500 or best offer. Contact: (231) 357-3821. Wholesale Suppliers for Harness, parts, blinds, hdw., dull PVC, nylon webbing, and supplies. Also we are now the Western distributor for Weaver Leather’s quality Brahma Webb materials. Give it a try—we are sure you’ll like it! Contact: Countryside Manufacturing, 504 S. Humbert St., Milton, IA 52570, (641) 656-4339. A & E Bonded Poly Thread. Best thread for heavy duty sewing machines. American made since 1893. Leghorn and chocolate. Sizes 277 and 346. White all sizes. Contact: (406) 961-3978, e-mail: bob@bitterrootsaddleco.com or (307) 674-6679, e-mail: info@sheridanleather.com. For Sale: Pro 2000 with Efka servo motor and speed control. Six extra presser feet. $3,750. Osborne #86 hand splitter. VGC. $495. 5-in-1 for $495. Contact: Chuck Hooks at (425) 743-6387, e-mail: tackmantoo@gmail.com.
shoe & boot Bay City, MI, still needs a shoe repairman. Business for sale. 26 days until retirement. Contact: (989) 327-9165.
The “Word of the Day” is irredentist . Shop Talk!
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25th Annual
Custom Boot Saddle Makers
Roundup
• • •
Trade Show: Friday, Oct. 4, from 9am-6pm Saturday, Oct 5 from 9am-6pm
Location:
MPEC • 1000 5th St • Wichita Falls, TX
$5,000 in Cash Prizes
to be awarded throughout the day on Saturday. Must be present to win.
For Information Contact: Eddie & Kathy Kimmel, Kimmel Boot 2080 CR 304, Comanche, TX 76442 Email: kimmels@cctc.net Phone: (325) 356-3197 Fax: (325) 356-2490
www.bootandsaddlemakertradeshow.com 62 |
ADVERTISERS INDEX A. Lyons & Co.......................................8 American Leather Direct.....................37 Artisan Sewing.......................back cover Barta Hide.............................................9 Beiler’s Mfg. & Supply..........................9 BioThane Coated Webbing................58 Bogle Greenwell Machinery Corp.......25 Booth & Co.........................................25 Bowden Saddle Tree..........................22 Brayer.................................................57 Brodhead Collar Shop........................15 Buckeye Engraving.............................38 Buckle Barn USA................................43 Buena Vista Blankets.........................38 Buggy Builder’s Bulletin......................48 C. S. Osborne.......................................5 Campbell-Randall...............................39 Center Square Harness......................23 Charles Hardtke..................................44 Chupp Blacksmith Shop.....................50 Chupp Bros. Wholesale......................16 Coblentz Collar...................................19 Danny Marlin Knives...........................19 Double K.............................................30 Fine Tool Journal................................30 Foam-Tex............................................37 Gfeller Casemakers, Inc.....................38 Goliger Leather Co., Inc.....................24 Hadlock & Fox Mfg. Co.......................17 Hand Plait Leather................................8 Hansen Western Gear........................38 Harness Hardware..............................57 Hermann Oak Leather........................52 Hide House, The.................................53 Hillside Harness Hardware, Ltd..back cover Hilltop Tack.........................................21 International Sheepskin......................60 Kalico Products.....................................8 Kimmel Boot.......................................62 Landis Sales and Service...................60 Leather Crafters & Saddlers...............31 Leather Machine Co., Inc., The..........63 Lewis Sales Co...................................60 Maine Thread.....................................45 Mud Creek..........................................57 Mules and More, Inc...........................61
N & A Harness Shop...........................13 Nick-O Sew.........................................14 North Ryceville...................................59 Ohio Plastics.......................................48 Ohio Travel Bag..................................51 Perfectex Plus LLC.............................49 Precision Saddle Tree........................34 Proleptic ...10, 20, 33, 32, 35, 36, 39, 47 RJF Leather........................................49 Raphael Sewing Machine/TechSew.21, 26 Ron's Tools......................................... 11 Shelton-Reynolds, Inc........................52 Shetler’s Collar Shop..........................30 ShoTan...............................................36 Small Farmer’s Journal......................23 Smoke & Fire Co................................26 Springfield Leather.............................12 Steel Stamps......................................18 Sugar Valley Collar Shop....................31 Sun Bias, Inc......................................41 Sweat Pad Shop...........................19, 45 TechSew/Raphael Sewing Machine.21, 26 Tennessee Tanning.............................17 Texas Custom Die..............................15 Thoroughbred Leather..........................2 TIMCO..................................................7 Toledo Sewing......................................3 Troyer's Harness Shop.........................9 Western Mule..................................... 11 Yoder’s Pad Shop...............................21
June 2013
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Shop Talk! with Boot & Shoe News P.O. Box 17817 Asheville, NC 28816 (828) 505-8474 • FAX (828) 505-8476 www.proleptic.net
June 2013
12 Monthly Issues $36 Canada & Mexico $39US Other Countries $54US SHATA Members deduct $4
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R E S M A M LE U S JUNE 17-21, 2013
Free Fry Pies, Donuts, & Drinks
6%OFF CASH & CARRY
Come check out our new items, closeouts, surplus items & more Place your orders now for faster service on sale days Mail orders are also eligible for discount
We now carry Thoroughbred Leather! Request your free catalog today.
4205 Township Road 629 Millersburg, OH 44654