Saddlemaking Course

Learn to build a saddle one-on-one with acclaimed saddlemaker Ben Geisler.

A full time saddlemaker, Ben studied saddlemaking under NEA recipient and TCAA founding member Dale Harwood. He has appeared in Pendleton Whisky’s “The Hands that Build the West” and he’s also been featured on Don Gonzales’ “Lost Trade” and We Are Makers podcasts.

In this 120-150 hour one-on-one course you’ll learn the fundamentals of saddle construction. Over the span of three weeks you’ll build a plain saddle in the style of your choice from the ground up in a show-one, do-one format in a modern, fully-equipped saddle shop using a mechanics-based approach. By the time you leave, you will have the knowledge and fundamentals to to make a saddle that’s safe, functional, and comfortable for both horse and rider.

Students are encouraged to take photos, video, and notes. At the end of the course the student will take home their completed saddle (a $5,000 value).

Whether you want to pursue saddlemaking as a career, build saddles part-time, or want to try your hand at building your own, this comprehensive course will meet your needs.

While no prior experience is necessary, an intermediate level of leatherworking skill and a working knowledge of horsemanship will allow you to make the most of your experience.

In addition to saddlemaking, we’ll also cover:

• Basic Equine anatomy, saddle tree fit and selection
• Pattern making theory, and rigging considerations
• Tool and machine selection and maintenance
• Material suppliers and sourcing best practices

Bookings are closed for 2026. Due to high demand and limited availability for saddlemaking classes, I require a $1,000 deposit so secure your space. If you are unable to attend a class booking, your deposit can be applied toward a future date, transferred to another student, or used as credit toward a saddle, tack, etc.

Transportation, room and board is not included.

2026 Course Tuition is $9,000 USD and includes all required materials. Tuition must be paid in full prior to first day of class.

For more information, please email me at trailsendsaddleshop@gmail.com or call the shop at (208) 680-3264 M-F 8-4 EST.