How to Repair Western Saddle Staples

The western saddle is an iconic product of American craftsmanship. Familiar to horseback-riding enthusiasts, and still used as of 2011, the western saddle design has changed little over the years except for some materials used. Typically, the hide is laced and sometimes stapled to a wood trunk. Newer saddles use a fiberglass trunk. Over time, as the wood dries, the staples will pull out from the wood, loosening the saddle and making it uncomfortable to sit on. Repairing this nuisance can be done with little difficulty.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle soap
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Small dowel rod
  • Wood filler (wood putty)
  • Saddle stapler and staples
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the saddle thoroughly using saddle soap. Ensure that any dirt or debris is removed from the area that needs repair.

    • 2

      Move aside any saddle rigging if possible from the saddle around the area that you need to work. You want unobstructed access to the area needing repair.

    • 3

      Grab the staple with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Slightly wiggle the staple and pull backward until it comes free. If loose or broken already, the staple will come free easily.

    • 4

      Lift up the leather exposing the wooden trunk. Insert a small wooden dowel to keep the leather off of the wood.

    • 5

      Apply wood filler to the staple holes. Ensure that the cavity is completely filled. Allow the filler to set and dry for 24 hours.

    • 6

      Remove the dowel. Staple the saddle back down with a saddle stapler using a fresh saddle staple.