Looking for saddle pattern

[Bull Durham]

Howdy. I want to build me a saddle but I can't locate any patterns. What I want to build is a Texas style half seat with a high back cantle and a slick fork. 1870's-1880's style. Can anybody point me in the right direction?
Thanks,
Bull Durham, SASS # 768

[CQMD]

I guess the first place to start is with the question how much experience in saddle making do you have?

Most saddle makers only have a few generic patterns to cover different types of saddle parts. Such as patterns for rounded skirts, square or different patterns for riggin's. I usually start with collecting all the pictures of similar saddles I can find to what I want to build. I then place my tree on the saddle stand and figure out the general lay of my saddle and which generic patterns that I am going to use. I use the cardboard that feed stores get when they have a pallet of grain come that protects the sacks. It is free and tough enough to last for long time. I then start laying out the different pieces that I am going to need and cutting them out of the cardboard. I basically cut new patterns for each saddle and fit them on the tree as I go along. I build a cardboard saddle, as this helps in keeping down the waste in very expensive leather.

I highly recommend the books, Stohlman Encyclopedia of Saddle Making there are three volumes. They are expensive but the only ones that really give you the step by step process that is needed. Volume I goes into pattern making and give numerous generic patterns needed and how to build your own patterns. The only other reference material the I highly recommend is the leather crafters journal.

This is a very short answer to your question. I don't have time to put up any pictures right now but will try to latter.

[Major 2]

Howdy. I want to build me a saddle but I can't locate any patterns. What I want to build is a Texas style half seat with a high back cantle and a slick fork. 1870's-1880's style. Can anybody point me in the right direction?
Thanks,
Bull Durham, SASS # 768

Sounds like your describing a Cheyenne or maybe a Visilla (Menena style Colorado ) "A" fork Tree .
Maybe a Santa Fe seat will suit you too.
A HopeTexas tree is a low cantel  ( but you can get the Hope style tree with a higher cantel reproduced today)

I've build several, mostly made my own patterns like CQMD said ( but of craft paper mostly because I seldom make two alike ).
Unless it's a, 1859 Mac.

I suggest you look to David Carrico Leather &/or  Doug Kidd ( Boarder States Leatherworks) both make Civilian Style horned "A" Forks.
Their web site have photos....

I sure they will help you in your project....