Width fitting
This is essential in any type of saddle with a rigid frame, but with our packsaddle
being non-rigid it will conform to the donkey’s shape no matter what.
Making the pack saddle.
Materials needed:
Sisal sack
Thread
Straw or hay (Large sack full at least)
Tools needed:
Tape measure
stuffing rod
Marker pen
Knife or scissors
Large needle, (we use 5” mattress needles, but any large needle will do)
Stuffing rod, about 1 metre long. (Broomstick with a flattened ‘V’ shape carved in one end,
see picture).
Time taken: allow at least ½ a day for the first attempt, our best saddle makers now do
about 5 a day but they have made hundreds.
Whip stitch (below)
Preparing the sack
The sacks are stuffed through what is now the long
seam running from the top to the bottom of your sack, so
we have to start by closing up the open end. Fold the two
sides of the end over a little to form a hem and starting at
either end whip stitch across to the other side.
In the picture there’s slightly different model showing a
nylon sack. The technique is the same and we’ll cover that
model as an alternative later.
Once the open end has been sealed, open up that long side seam. If you want to be
really efficient save the removed string for use later.
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