Frequently Asked Questions

ThoroughThread Leatherworks is a small, female-owned business in the equestrian industry that provides high-quality saddle and tack repair, as well as other various leather goods.

ThoroughThread Leatherworks stands out for its traditional approach to saddle and tack repair, trained by Master Saddlers in Scotland, ensuring the highest craftsmanship and expertise in different saddle types, regardless of brand. In addition, all materials are of the highest quality; from the leather, thread, and stain, to the hardware. I am committed to sustainability, prioritizing the repair and preservation of leather items to reduce waste, and offering custom leather goods crafted with care for both quality and longevity.

A comprehensive list of repair services is available on the Repair Services page. For any specific repair inquiries, please feel free to contact me directly at ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com. I kindly request that you include detailed information and clear photographs with your message.

Due to the necessity of complete disassembly and reassembly for saddle seat repairs, I recommend considering the purchase of a new saddle, as the cost of such extensive repairs may be comparable.

I am capable of replacing a saddle tree, provided that the replacement tree exactly matches the original. If an exact match is unavailable, the leather may be compromised, affecting the overall appearance of the saddle and the quality of the leather. In addition, locating exact replacement trees can be challenging. If a suitable replacement is found, I still advise considering a new saddle, as the expense of replacing a saddle tree is significant and may equal the price of a new saddle.

I do not undertake saddle tree repairs, as using nails, tacks, or plates often compromises the structural integrity. Additionally, bending a saddle tree requires specialized industrial machinery.

No, I provide reflocking and flocking adjustments; however, I do not guarantee saddle fit. Following any repairs that modify the panel or flocking, I strongly recommend that a qualified saddle fitter assess and adjust the fit for both the rider and the horse.

ThoroughThread Leatherworks offers a limited selection of leather goods and accepts requests for custom items. Please visit the For Sale section for more information or reach out to ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com for prices, requests, and more details.

Yes, ThoroughThread Leatherworks offers a range of custom leather goods and welcomes custom item requests. For more information or to submit your request, please contact me at ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com.

The time required for repairs can vary significantly depending on the type of service needed. For minor repairs, such as simple stitching or small patches, the average turnaround time is approximately three days. More extensive repairs, such as disassembling an English saddle to access the flocking, will take longer to complete. I will make every effort to provide an accurate time estimate and maintain consistent communication regarding updates and progress. If you have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com.

Certain repairs, such as flocking adjustments, can be conducted on-site; however, most repairs will require additional time for completion. ThoroughThread Leatherworks is committed to maintaining clear communication regarding updates and progress throughout the repair process. For any specific inquiries, please feel free to contact me at ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com.

Repair costs are influenced by several factors, including the cost of materials, the time required for the repair, and the complexity of the task involved. Typically, more intricate repairs necessitate additional labor and specialized materials, which can increase overall costs.

Yes, I offer expedited repair services for an additional fee, subject to availability. For specific requests, please contact me at ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com.

I will strive to provide a preliminary cost estimate before commencing any work; however, please note that this can be challenging due to the diverse range of saddles and repair types. After the initial physical evaluation of your item, I will communicate any necessary adjustments to the estimate as the repair process progresses.

ThoroughThread Leatherworks currently accepts cash and Venmo. Please reach out to ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com if you have specific payment requests.

Yes, I am pleased to accommodate repairs that you wish to send via mail, where feasible. For specific shipping instructions or requests, please contact me at ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com.

ThoroughThread Leatherworks currently operates without a physical storefront. All work is conducted at a residential address in Lake St. Louis, Missouri, where items can be dropped off. For the exact address, please contact me at ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com. While my primary location is in Lake St. Louis, I am also open to arranging meetings for item exchanges or evaluations for a small convenience fee.

No, I do not have standard working hours and try to be flexible within reason. I kindly ask that you refrain from reaching out during nighttime and early morning hours, specifically between 9 PM and 7 AM.

At ThoroughThread Leatherworks, I strive to ensure your satisfaction with my repair services. While I take pride in the quality of my workmanship, please understand that repairs are crafted to restore functionality and appearance to the best of my ability.

If for any reason you are not satisfied with the repair, I encourage you to reach out within a reasonable timeframe. I will do my best to address your concerns and make any necessary adjustments.

Your happiness with my services is important to me, and I appreciate your understanding as we work together to achieve the best outcome for your leather items.

Please reach out to ThoroughThreadLeatherworks@gmail.com for shipping options.

ThoroughThread Leatherworks uses the highest available grade of English bridle leather from Wickett & Craig for saddle and tack repair and for any custom leather tack.

• ThoroughThread Leatherworks uses a variety of vegetable-tanned leather (either full-grain or top-grain) and English Bridle leather for other leather goods.

ThoroughThread Leatherworks uses a high-quality, waxed linen thread. This traditional thread is known for its strength, durability, water resistance, flexibility. 

• Linen thread, especially when waxed, is highly resistant to fraying and wear, which is essential for the constant stress saddles and tack endure. Wax coating adds a protective layer that repels water, helping to prevent thread rot in damp conditions and extending the life of the repair. Linen thread has a natural stretch, allowing it to move with the leather rather than breaking under strain, which is critical for high-stress areas.

ThoroughThread Leatherworks uses a traditional leather stain made of pearl glue and ink powder. This type of stain not only beautifies the leather but also helps preserve its natural qualities, aligning with high-quality, traditional craftsmanship.

• Pearl glue binds the ink powder to the leather fibers, creating a vibrant, durable finish that doesn’t fade as quickly as many water- or alcohol-based stains. The glue in the stain enhances the leather’s natural sheen, often eliminating the need for additional finishing products. This gives a more authentic, polished look that develops a unique patina over time. Pearl glue allows the stain to bond more deeply with the leather, providing consistent, even color coverage that resists cracking and peeling as the leather flexes. Pearl glue and ink powder stains are made from natural ingredients, making them a more eco-friendly choice compared to synthetic alternatives in many commercial stains.

Repairing leather items rather than replacing them offers several benefits, both practical and environmental.

• Repairing leather items can be significantly cheaper than purchasing new ones. The costs associated with high-quality leather goods can be substantial, and repairs often allow owners to extend the life of their products without the need for a full replacement
• Choosing to repair instead of replace helps reduce waste and the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new products. Leather production can have a significant carbon footprint, and by repairing, consumers contribute to a more sustainable practice .
• High-quality leather items often improve with age. Repairing these items allows owners to maintain the character and quality that may be lost with a new, lower-quality replacement. Skilled repairs can enhance the item's lifespan and appearance, preserving its unique qualities .
• Leather items carry sentimental value, such as family heirlooms or gifts. Repairing these cherished pieces allows individuals to keep memories intact while ensuring the items remain functional .
• Repairs can provide an opportunity for customization. For example, an existing leather item can be modified or upgraded during the repair process, making it more suited to your current needs.

For more detailed insights, you can explore sources like The Spruce, Sustainable Leather, and Good Housekeeping.

ThoroughThread follows the traditional methods of hand-stitching for saddle and tack repair. Almost all stitching uses the traditional Saddle Stitch or two needle stitching. 

• Saddle stitching is more time consuming than machine stitching, but it creates a more durable stitch, possibly even the strongest known stitch. It involves two needles passing through each hole from opposite sides, creating an interlocking pattern that holds even if one stitch breaks. Machine stitches are weaker by comparison, as a break in one stitch can unravel the seam. 
• Saddle stitching is done by hand, allowing for greater control in tight or curved areas, common in saddles and tack. This flexibility ensures each stitch is tailored precisely for strength where it’s most needed.
• Saddle stitching aligns with traditional craftsmanship, enhancing the item’s durability and aesthetic. This method reflects the skill and care in each repair, often appreciated by clients who value heritage techniques.
• Hand-sewn stitches are better able to withstand wear, especially in high-stress areas, making them ideal for items that will see heavy use over time, such as saddles and tack.
• Saddle stitching is not only used for saddle making, but also for handmade leather goods. Hermes, the high-end French luxury goods manufacturer, is one of the only well-known brands to still employ the technique. Other high-end designer handbags, such as Prada, Fendi, and Loewe, are stitched using machines despite their high price.

I do not have standard working hours and try to be flexible within reason. I kindly ask that you refrain from reaching out during nighttime and early morning hours, specifically between 9 PM and 7 AM.

Identifying when a saddle or tack needs repairs involves looking for several key signs of wear and damage:

1. Visible Damage: Check for cracks, tears, or significant wear in the leather. Look for frayed stitching or any areas where the leather is starting to separate.
2. Brittleness and Stiffness: Leather that feels dry, brittle, or excessively stiff may indicate that it has lost its natural oils and needs conditioning or repair.
3. Saddle Fit and Stability: If the saddle no longer fits properly or shifts during use, it may need to be adjusted or repaired. An unstable saddle can affect both the rider's comfort and the horse's performance.
4. Hardware Issues: Inspect all buckles, snaps, and rings for rust, breakage, or signs of wear. Any faulty hardware should be repaired or replaced to ensure safety and functionality.
5. Flocking and Padding: For saddles, check the flocking for evenness and proper cushioning. If the saddle feels lumpy or uneven when ridden, it may require reflocking or padding adjustments.
6. Saddle Leathers and Stirrup Straps: These components should be inspected for wear, especially at points of stress. If the leathers appear worn or have developed any weak points, they should be replaced.

Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather. It is made from the top layer of the hide, which includes all the natural grain. Full-grain leather is incredibly durable and develops a beautiful patina over time, enhancing its character and appeal.

Slightly lower in quality than full-grain, top-grain leather is also made from the top layer of the hide, but it has been sanded and refinished to remove imperfections. While it doesn’t develop as rich a patina as full-grain leather, it’s still a high-quality option that offers durability and a more uniform appearance.

Genuine leather is made from the layers of the hide that remain after the top layers have been split off for higher-end products. It undergoes a process of sanding, buffing, and sometimes embossing to give it a more uniform look. Genuine leather is more affordable than full-grain and top-grain leather but is also less durable and tends to wear out more quickly.

Genuine leather is not as durable as higher-grade leathers. It can wear out and show signs of aging more quickly. Unlike full-grain leather, which develops a desirable patina, genuine leather tends to look worn and aged over time without the same attractive characteristics. It lacks the natural texture and character of higher-grade leathers, often requiring more maintenance to keep it looking good.