In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different
This tack set is one of the prettiest sets I've created. The simplicity, the little bits of small details that draw your eye in, the shapes and feel. This set may be a simply black color, but there isn't anything simple about it!
Tbh, I've had these Rowdy Rose conchos for quite awhile now. I've tried them on different projects, and they either stood out too much or were lost in everything else going on. Finally a vision for them came!
I used carved roses throughout. No vines or scrolls, just roses. The conchos were placed so they would create interest, bring color, and be more of a central focal point. Because the conchos have silver and copper in them, I opted for copper hardware throughout. The buckle on the headstall has added stones, and they are so pretty.
The headstall is a short cheek. It currently sits at 34", and has 3 holes smaller and 3 holes larger. Lots of room for adjustment.
And now the beads. These are small, delicate, and flat GLASS beads. I've always loved the look of the painted stained glass effect we do on leather, but it's a pain to paint. That was the inspo behind these beads! They are wired in place, and then I also hand sewed them vertically, so they are snug. That being said, they are glass, and will break if you're going to abuse them. So please be cautious your horse doesn't rub them off. Because they are flat, and I've inlaid them into a channel on the leather, they don't have a high profile. I love that about them! I'm very confident they'll hold up throughout the life of the leather. The beads are a mixture of colors - shades of turquoise, browns, creams. Very pretty!
The beading was added at both ends of the breastcollar sides. It's also on the ear piece of the headstall, and along the top of the crown, where it goes over the poll.
I'm still on the fence about adding some copper patina spots here and there. There are some places on the headstall and breastcollar where I wanted to add them, but haven't yet. Do you think I should add them? It would be between the ear piece, and along the center tug, going between the legs... If you're interested in this set, and want the spots added, just shoot me an email and let me know.
This set really stands alone. It's not "in your face" kind of fancy, but is sooo pleasing to look at. I love, love the beads, and how they bring so much interest, even though they are so small. And the conchos just give it that bit of cool and style. Love this set!