How to Repair a Western Pony Saddle

Buying a pony saddle brand new can be very expensive. You might be able to save a lot of money by purchasing an old pony saddle that needs a bit of repair. Horse owners can often find these old pony saddles and buy them very inexpensively at auctions and from private buyers who are getting out of the horse business. The key is to examine the saddle carefully to determine exactly what it will take to get it back in shape.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle rack
  • Sponge
  • Soft cloth
  • Saddle soap
  • Mink oil
  • Leather conditioner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the saddle over and place it on a solid surface. Make sure the saddle is resting firmly on the horn. Examine the condition of the sheepskin lining on the underside of the pony saddle. If that sheepskin lining is worn out or torn, take the saddle to a saddle maker to have it replaced.

    • 2

      Place the saddle on a sturdy stand and use a damp sponge or cloth to remove any caked on mud from the leather. If the saddle has been in storage for awhile you might need to make several passes over the leather to get it fully clean. Dry the leather thoroughly with a soft cloth after you are done.

    • 3

      Dip a soft cloth in saddle soap and slowly work that saddle soap into the leather. Work on one section of the pony saddle at a time, allowing the saddle soap to soak into the leather for five to 10 minutes before wiping away any excess.

    • 4

      Check the saddle as you go for any nails or rivets that have come loose. Carefully pound the nails and rivets back into place as you find them.

    • 5

      Condition the entire surface of the saddle with mink oil or another quality leather conditioner. Pay special attention to any areas where the leather has stiffened. The fenders and the point where the stirrups connect to the saddle can often get very stiff, especially if the pony saddle has not been used for some time.