Hobby Spotlight: Tackmaking

Have you wanted to try your hand at tack making? Breyer caught up with Erika I. to find out what inspired her to make this fun Antler Bridle and Skijouring Set, and how she got involved in the model horse hobby.

How did you get involved in the Model Horse Hobby?

I started collecting Breyers, with my sister, when we were younger, but I grew out of the carpet herd and put them away when I was 10. At 14, I discovered the "serious" side to the model horse hobby and started showing, entering my first BreyerFest show in 2012! Since 2012, I have continued showing and have tried my hand at both customizing and now tackmaking! I am so grateful for this hobby, as I have made many friends through it, including my own "show family" in Region 6!

Who inspired your love of horses?

My love of horses definitely came from my sister. Growing up we played with our Breyers and barns, and now we ride real horses together. Now I am getting my sister into showing model horses too! 

What was your inspiration for this set?

My biggest inspiration for this set is to make something different. I want to make things that others might not know about, to add some fun and unique entries to performance showing! I plan to make full harnesses soon, but this seemed like an easy first step. 

What was one challenge you had while making this set?

Figuring out the patterns has been the biggest challenge! I draw out everything on paper first and "tack up" the horse with it, to see what is working or what pieces might be missing. It is a lot of trial and error at that stage!

What is a piece of advice you would give someone who is interested in tackmaking?

Lots of research and don't be afraid of messing up! I just started this tackmaking adventure within the year, but it has been a six month process of researching leather, dyes and the process. I went through an entire leather hide and had nothing to show for it. A month ago I got a new kind of leather and suddenly everything was working. It is all about testing things out and not being afraid to have some ugly, wasted products. In the end it is all worth it - being able to create unique tack is a rewarding experience!

Which Breyer Horse is your Favorite?
My favorite Breyer would have to be Bobbi Jo. This year at BreyerFest I was finally able to get my own! Her color is stunning and the movement is very versatile in performance showing- she also looks great in blue!