How to Attach Saddle Tie Strings to D Rings

Tie strings, attached by "D" rings to the front and rear jockey portions of a saddle, are used to securely tie gear to the western saddle. Although they are typically made of durable thick leather, the saddle strings can wear out under heavy usage. Replace saddle strings using a "bleed knot," also known as "split braiding."

Things You'll Need

  • Leather saddle string
  • Utility knife
  • Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Needle-nose pliers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fold the saddle string in half and mark the center with a pencil. Cut two longitudinal slits in the saddle string, each 1/2-inch from the center mark. The slits should be the same length as the width of the saddle string. Cut the ends of the saddle strings at 45 degree angles.

    • 2

      Thread the saddle string through the "D" ring on the saddle so the center of the string rests on the ring. For descriptive purposes, you now have a front string and a back string.

    • 3

      Push the tip of the needle-nosed pliers through the slit in the back string, from back to front. Grip the end of the front string and pull it through the slit. Pull it firmly to pass the slit in the front string through the slit in the back string. Now, the string positioned in the back has the only remaining unused slit.

    • 4

      Pass the string, now in the front, through the slit in the back string. Pull the strings firmly to secure.