Western Saddles

09/22/2025

Here is an update of my recent surgery....My stitches were removed last week and the big toe and ankle are healing normally (on the outside). Because of the surgery inside my foot, I am still not able to put much weight on the foot for at least another month. So outside...healed well, inside....healing left to go.

09/11/2025

As I sit here recovering from surgery...I am doing well, by the way - my stitches will be removed next Tuesday..... I received an email from the Library of Congress. My Book (Basic Western Boot Making and Repair) has been accepted by and sent to the Library of Congress!!

Since Tandy Corporate Headquarters is in the final stages of their move, my book is still not available at select Tandy Leather stores. I'll let you know when that happens.

In the mean time, if you would like to purchase my book or at least do a simple review without the obligation of purchasing, I invite you to visit the following URL.

Thanks for you well wishes and you support!

Rick Simmons

Basic Western Boot Making and Repair by G. Rick Simmons, Sr. is a detailed guide covering every aspect of crafting and repairing Western boots. It provides step-by-step instructions on selecting tools, measuring feet, constructing patterns, and assembling components such as vamps, counters, and welt...

09/03/2025

Surgery completed…and beginning the recovery process…..

09/02/2025

Surgery day! Can’t wait! 🫣

08/25/2025

Hey all, I need to let you know that I will be undergoing foot surgery on September 2, 2025 (next week). This will take me off my feet for the next several months. I will not be able to conduct any significant work on boots, saddles, or repairs during that time. This is going to be my last full week of work....I will not be accepting any new projects until I have recovered from surgery (maybe when I am in a walking cast). I will let you know in this forum. Rick Simmons

08/25/2025

Here is a completed roping saddle on an Olin Young tree (from Bowden Saddle Tree). This saddle will be on its way to the owner, who is both a horse/rider trainer and part time professional team roper.

07/12/2025

Completed the pictured custom saddle! This particular saddle was the first that I was commissioned to build in which the owner did not want a horn! I invite you all to take a look!

06/29/2025

And…for the first time, Jonah is riding without a lead on the horse!

06/29/2025

We started off with some balancing exercises: No reins, no swell, no horn….hands on hip or out to sides. Concentrating on body positioning…

Then we worked with reins: starting,stopping, emergency stopping, and left and right turns, while on the lead.

06/29/2025

More horse work: Picking hooves!

06/25/2025

Now that the grandsons look like “cowboys”, we are teaching them horse skills!

06/24/2025

And Grandson number 2!