Template / Tracing Instructions
Templates are not only taken to confirm a permanent record of the horses’ condition at the time of ordering a saddle, but will aid the manufacturer in the construction of a custom built saddle or semi custom fit saddle.
You will need:
- Large sheet of paper
- Flexicurve (architectural measuring tool)
- Camera
- A helper
- A rider and horse!
Step 1
Stand your horse on a flat solid surface and make sure that he is stood in as “square” position, as possible.
Step 2
Take 2 photographs
a) side profile of the horse.
b) symmetry of the horse, taken from above and behind, remember most horses are not symmetrical.
Step 3
Template 1 – Tree Width
Ensure the horse is standing square with a straight neck.
Identify the back edge of the scapula (shoulder blade), mark this if necessary and then place the flexicurve laterally 2.5”(5cm) behind this point.
This is the position that the points of the tree will lie parallel against the horse. Ensure a firm and even pressure is applied to mould the flexicurve (on both sides), ask your helper to hold down the left side if necessary while you move to repeat on the right. Then lift from the middle and place flat on your paper and draw along the inside curve. Be careful not to twist the flexicurve around in the process (Left to right) or to knock the outline.
Template 2 – T18
Identify the line of the last rib running up to the junction of T18 (the last thoracic vertebrae), mark if necessary, then place the flexicurve laterally in a horizontal position across the point of T18 and repeat the process of profile to paper. Be clear to indicate Left and Right side on the paper.
Template 3 – Horizontal Profile
With a flat flexicurve, place one end on the withers and shape along your horses back to create a profile. Lift off at both ends to avoid any distortion and trace on the paper, indicating the crossing points of Template 1 & 2. This will help us to determine the shape of the tree, gusset depths and the maximum length of panel.
It is recommended that all profiles are repeated to confirm their accuracy.
You should now have 2 photos and a set of 3 templates.
If there is anything else that we should be aware of ie, existing lumps or white marks that may effect the fit of the saddle, it is advisable to provide clear photographic evidence of this also.
Step 4
If you already have an existing Black Country Saddle or have one on trial is it also useful for us to have pictures of this.
a) on the horse, girthed but with no rider, showing the clearance at the front and the balance from the side.
Please ensure that no saddlecloths are used.
b) on the horse, with the rider in the saddle showing the clearance. It may also be necessary to show the leg position if alterations to flap and blocks are required.
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