More Than a Saddle. More Than a Course.

Imagine riding in a saddle you didn’t just order, you built it. Every stitch, every stamp, every choice in design carries your mark. With David Earle by your side, you’ll step into the world of traditional craftsmanship, creating a saddle that’s both functional and personal.

This isn’t simply about speed or convenience—though you’ll avoid the long wait for a custom build. It’s about pride, legacy, and the rare opportunity to learn directly from a master while crafting something that will last a lifetime.

Two people holding a saddle in a rustic indoor setting

Why Build With David Earle?

Custom saddles often come with long waiting lists.

Here, you’ll bypass the wait and walk away with your own saddle in weeks, not months.

More importantly, you’ll be involved in every decision—from tree to tooling—guided by David’s decades of expertise.

At Saddle Making School, you don’t just receive a saddle. You gain:

  • One-on-one mentorship with a master saddler.
  • The freedom to design and build your own piece.
  • A faster turnaround than traditional custom orders.
  • A once-in-a-lifetime skill and experience that stays with you forever.

Step Into the Workshop. Step Into the Craft.

From the very first day, you’ll be hands-on with your saddle tree, shaping the foundation of your build. You’ll learn to construct your own live webbed seat and ground seat, understand how every cut of leather matters, and master the art of stamping, tooling, and stitching.

Each day brings a new milestone—until the moment arrives when you carry your completed saddle out of the workshop. Not just a saddle, but a story you’ve built from the ground up.

Is This For You?

This course is for riders and horse owners who want more than a transaction—they want connection. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a custom saddle but dreaded the long wait, this is your chance to build one with your own hands.

It’s also for those who appreciate heritage trades and traditional skills, where time slows down and every detail is deliberate.

Whether you’re a lifelong rider seeking ultimate performance, a craftsman eager to learn a timeless trade, or simply someone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this course welcomes you into a world where horsemanship and craftsmanship meet.

More Than a Saddle, It’s a Story

When you enrol, you’re investing in more than leather and tree—you’re investing in the rare chance to create something lasting under the guidance of a master saddler. This is not just a purchase; it’s a partnership in craftsmanship.

The premium reflects the exclusivity of one-on-one tuition, the decades of expertise shared, and the heirloom-quality saddle you’ll ride away with.

Unlike anything you could order, your saddle is a living story—crafted by you, for you, to be treasured for generations.

Questions Riders Ask

Do I need prior leatherworking skills?

No. David will guide you step-by-step, whether you’re a complete beginner or have craft experience.

How long does it take?

Most students complete their saddle in just a few weeks—far faster than waiting for a traditional custom order.

How is the Saddle Making School structured?

This is not a group setting, or class, this is 1:1 tuition with Dave. 

The course is flexible (as far as dates) but limited in how many a year we offer this to,  and generally you would be needing to invest in 7 - 10 solid days to complete your saddle.

What’s included in the Saddle Making School course?

  • A complete set of patterns for your western stock.
  • Video series on the steps involved in creating your own saddle.
  • One-on-one tuition and guidance throughout the whole process.
  • At the completion of the course, you take home the experience, the knowledge, and the saddle you have made under Dave's guidance – value $4,900.
  • Wholesale goods for all aspects of saddle making are available if you choose to further your field.
  • The charge for successful applicants is $7,500.
  • If you want to acquire the age-old skills of leather craft and saddle making, this course is for you. With the skills you will gain, you can go on to create your own tack and leather gear. The options are endless and invaluable.
  • Dave is offering this course with over 25 years’ experience in every aspect of saddle making and manufacturing at every level.
  • Accommodation can be arranged at an extra cost.

What type of saddle can I build?

Each saddle is designed around your needs, whether for stock work, trail riding, or competition.

Where does the course take place?

In David’s professional workshop, where you’ll work one-on-one with him in a fully equipped saddlery environment.

What is the cost of the course?

The cost of the Saddle Making Course is $8,250

Still Have Questions?

Speak With David. You can contact David here.

Take the Reins

This is your chance to build more than a saddle. Step into the workshop, learn the craft, and create a story you’ll ride in every day.

Course investment: $8,250

Secure Your Place

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