Description
Date: June 14, 15 & 16, 2024
Friday, 6/14 – 11 AM until 5 PM
Saturday, 6/15 – 9 AM until 5 PM
Sunday, 6/16 – 9 AM until 3 PM
Skill Level: Experience working with fiber (crocheting, knitting, macrame, weaving, knot tying) helps, but is not necessary.
Class Registration Fee: Early Bird, by May 27, 2024: $275.00
After May 27, 2024: $300.00
Class description: Learn to make your own mohair saddle cinches, guitar straps or hat bands. This three-day class will address both newcomers to cinch making and those who are already proficient at it. There are three basic construction methods for cinch making. They are tied, woven, and a combination of tied and woven. Those new to cinch making are introduced to tied cinches (or guitar straps) and encouraged to stick with that method until proficiency is attained. Mohair has been traditionally used to make cinches for Western saddles. The tied and woven methods can also be used in making English, Dressage, Endurance, and Australian girths and breast collars as well.
Besides cinches, girths, and breast collars, one can create a number of other items including hatbands and guitar straps. All of these possibilities will be addressed during the class. The class will begin with a step by step demonstration of how to make a tied cinch or guitar strap, primarily addressing the beginning cinch maker (however those already making cinches will benefit from this review). As the class continues, beginning cinch makers will be assisted with their tied cinches and experienced makers will be advised on their more advanced projects.
Participants will be provided with looms and hand tools for use during the class. If desired, looms and hand tools may be purchased as well. Written instructions for making a basic cinch loom as well a 17-strand tied cinch will also be provided along with a resource list for looms, hand tools, and other cinch making supplies.
Students need to bring the following supplies: Note pad and pencil, tape measure, scissors, and (optional) smartphone camera.
Since 1968 Pop Wagner has been traveling the world (44 states and 14 foreign countries) sharing his music, tall tales and dry wit with friends and fans near and far. In 2006 he started making mohair cinches. He has perfected his technique and passed on that knowledge to over 200 students.