BLEED KNOTS


	Bleed knots are used in various places in Western tack but especially on saddle strings. They are really just a slit braid; here’s how to do them.


	Depending on their location they can be done on the bench or in situ.




		On the bench cut your string to length, point both ends and middle it. The job will go more easily and look neater if the string is well saddle soaped.




	The easiest way to cut the slits is with a wood chisel. The slit needs to be the same width as the strap so if using a ½” string use a ½” chisel, centre it and just push down


		The first slit should be in the top string, pass the bottom string up through the slit, pull tight and then twist to lay the string flat.



			Same procedure, open the slit, pass the string though and twist


	Should look like this




			Then open the slit: a screwdriver or large awl works fine.



						Make the second slit in the strap you just pulled through



		That’s it done. For neatness tap the knot down with a hammer.


	These are a couple of homemade knives: one out of a broken pair of scissors, the other out of a file. The cutting edge needs a double bevel to help keep the cut straight.

In situ, cut strings to length, point and install.The job will go more easily and look neater if the string is well saddle soaped.

I have used a pair of chaps to illustrate this but the work is the same on a saddle


	Pull both strings outwards to tighten.


	To cut the slits you can use a craft knife but you must be very careful not to damage the leather underneath. A sharp pointed knife with a curved blade and a smooth base is really required. Professional tools are triangular in section so they open out the slit.


	Hold the top string, place the point of the knife and push, cutting a central slit the width of the string.


	Take care to keep the cut central


	Open out the slit: a large awl works well, or you could use a screwdriver.


	Pass the bottom string through, pull tight and twist to lay flat.




		Should look like this




	Cut the second slit, (just showing the other tool in use, you don’t need two)




		Pass the other string through, pull tight and twist




		That’s it finished. You can tap it down more neatly with a hammer if required


	[HOME] [WHO & WHERE] [CONTACT US] [CUSTOM & REPAIRS] [INDEX] [HOW TO] [TIE MECATE] [RIG SADDLE] [TIE STUFF] [RIVET BLEVINS] [FIT STIRRUP TREADS] [SET FENDERS] [FIT SADDLE STRING DEES] [BLEED KNOTS] [REFIT STIRRUP LEATHERS] [LINKS]