Description
Bob Klenda
Edward A. Whitney Academic Center – W 227
Thursday 05/15 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
All skill levels welcome!
Workshop Description: The focus of this workshop is to provide a solid foundation for anyone already repairing saddles and tack or contemplating doing it. Subject matter consists of explaining as well as showing what is repairable, what isn’t, and why it isn’t. Examples of good and poorly done repairs and explanation of what constitutes good and poor work. Examples as well as explanation of the makeup of saddle trees, materials their made of, bar design and what constitutes a good or poor fit. Saddle design and its relationship to providing good service or causing problems. Saddle care, cleaning and what products are expected to do what. Saddle parts, the role they play and what is expected of each. Examining a saddle so as to diagnose potential problems, where to look and what to look for. {Bob will be using COBRA Class 4, a COBRA Burnisher, and a COBRA Splitter; if you are interested in purchasing COBRA equipment at the show, call Leather Machine Company by February 1 to pre-order at +1 (866) 962-9880. Deposit required.}
Materials to bring: Notebook, pencils, camera, and questions; you’re welcome to bring samples of things you have questions about (even saddles).
Workshop Instructor: Bob Klenda has been carving leather since 1959 and making saddles since 1962. As past president of the CSMA, he is accustomed to teaching saddle making and leather carving. He authors the column, From My Bench to Yours. Bob is primarily self-taught and is eager to share his knowledge with others. He is a recipient of the Howard Munsell Award for promotion of the art of saddle making, is the 2010 recipient of the Al Stohlman Award for Achievement in Leathercraft, and was recognized by the Academy of Western Artists as the 2016 Saddlemaker of the Year.
Workshop Sponsors: Hermann Oak Leather Co., The Fiebing Co., Leather Machine Co., LLC, Renia USA, Ron’s Tool Co., and Klenda Custom Saddles.
CANCELLATION POLICY
• There is a $25 administration fee per cancellation.
• The cost of each workshop will be refunded minus the $25 fee.
• No refunds for workshops after Friday, May 9, 2025.