Instructions on Braiding Leather Reins

Braided leather reins use at least 3 leather laces and are much stronger than single strand reins. The extra strength is useful in rodeo events like barrel racing and also for working livestock in brushy areas. Making braided reins is a form of artwork with many patterns and styles. The first braiding method to learn is the Hair Braid. If you have ever braided someone's hair you can follow this example easily.

Things You'll Need

  • 3 leather laces
  • Board
  • Hammer
  • Nail
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay three leather laces on top of each other. Tie an overhand knot in one end of the three laces. Grasp the laces about 2 inches from the end and rotate them to form a loop on top of the laces. Hold the loop with one hand and insert all three laces into the loop. Place one hand on the top end of the laces and another below the loop and pull tightly in opposite directions to form an overhand knot.

    • 2

      Hammer a nail into a board and place the bottom of the overhand knot on top of the nail.

    • 3

      Spread the three laces out so they are flat on the table. Cross the left lace over the middle lace, then the right lace over the middle lace. Continue braiding in this pattern until you near the end of the laces. Keep each crossing slightly tight but not tight enough to twist the flat laces. The braid should lie flat.

    • 4

      Tie the end off in an overhand knot in the same manner as in Step 1.