What does a Saddlery (219C) do?

Saddlers design, manufacture, rebuild, and repair a wide variety of saddles, saddle trees, harnesses, riding boots, and associated tack for all equestrian disciplines.

Job Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Reading and interpreting job specifications, sketches, and technical drawings
  • Acquiring a strong working knowledge of human and horse anatomy
  • Cutting and stitching leather using needle and thread or with a stitching machine
  • Assembling and constructing materials; positioning covering and cushioning material—such as cotton batting, foam rubber, or mohair—over the saddle tree
  • Diagnosing and fixing or replacing broken parts
  • Tricking, slicking, rubbing, creasing, and punching holes; beveling, dyeing, or burnishing edges
  • Cutting and stamping decorative designs into the surface of leather
  • Applying paint and liquid dressing with brush or sponge to produce glossy finish
  • Applying basic welding procedures; safely using industrial sewing machines, leather clickers, and presses
  • Communicating effectively with customers, co-workers, and supervisors
  • Working independently or as a team member to get the job done

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

  • Secondary school diploma or equivalent; credits in math, science, and English an asset
  • While not mandatory, completion of 5,440-hour apprenticeship program, including on-the-job and in-school training, is recommended

What's Your Future as a Saddlery (219C)?

  • Generally 40-hour week, sometimes in industrial plants
  • Opportunity to be self-employed and run successful equestrian business
  • Employers include harness-making companies, saddler companies, racetracks, and large horse barns

Wage Rate

Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified saddlers earn an average of $15.00 per hour.

Self-Rating

Saddler (219C)

Ask Yourself: Yes No
Do you have good manual dexterity, an eye for detail, and enjoy working with your hands in creative ways?
Do you enjoy working with your hands using a variety of hand and power tools?
Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines?
Can you lift 50lbs comfortably?
Do you enjoy learning about and working with new technology and materials?
Can you work well independently and as a team?
Do you have excellent time-management skills? Are you an organized person? Do you consider yourself creative? Do you have artistic skills?


If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as a Saddler (219C) may be for you!

You might want to look at these similar trades as well;

  • Horse Harness Maker
  • Horse Groomer
  • Native Clothing and Crafts Artisan
  • Welder
  • Goldsmith/Gemsetter

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