Braiding Material Source List*

Eventually every leather worker develops a list of materials with the expectation of a certain performance from those products. You too will find suppliers and products that best fit your specific requirements.

The art of braiding is unique compared to other leatherwork disciplines, i.e. saddle making. Braiding only requires an investment in two pieces of equipment a cutter/beveler and a splitter. The smaller hand tools, materials and hide preparations are low in expense in comparison.

We never cut corners by using lesser quality materials and constantly search for excellence. We believe second-rate materials make second-rate projects, therefore we only purchase high quality leather, tools, preparations and finish products.

Over the years our suppliers have consistetly produced quality materials for us.

The following dealers have been easy to work with and understanding of our needs:

Latigo: Stevenson-Paxton, Dave Ruggles, CA, 800-648-1622, provides latigo that has a highly glazed surface and is consistent in color. He is very knowledgeable and good to work with.

Kangaroo hides: Sheridan Outfitters, Vandy Douglas, WY, 888-803-3030.

Kangaroo hides: Hardtke Leather Company, TX, 915-590-0088.

Rawhide: Hereford Bi-Products Inc., Bill Confers, 800-858-4384, has the best rawhide we have found. Bill works very closely with us and ships hides to meet our needs.

String Cutter/Beveler, Splitter: Jerry James, 920-403-7876, manufactures the string cutter/beveler we use and recommend. Also see www.leatherbraidingtools.com

Round leather belting (for inner core of Romal Reins): Oregon Leather,
541-343-2563.

Books & Instruction, braiding kits-and other braiding supplies: Hought Fine Art & Leather, Gail Hought, 800-839-1164 or www.hought.com.

Braiding Classes: Hought Fine Art & Leather, Gail Hought, 800-839-1164 or www.hought.com. Please check our web site, choose Braiding Instruction, then Braiding Lessons for details.

*Material and tool sources are continually changing. Please check our web page at www.hought.com for the current list.