As a some of you may know, I am a member of the Society of Master Saddlers. Every year they run a competition for members with a number of classes to choose from.
This year, the President's Choice category was 'for the love of dogs', I have not entered the competition for a few years and with this class on the list I was very keen to change that.
I spent 3 days creating my entry which was a set of 3/4" wide, lined double raised collar and lead stitched in 10 stitches per inch (each stitch is 2.7mm long and I had 3 rows on each item to stitch by hand).
The competition date was the 20th September 2021, unfortunately I was unable to attend in person but thankfully my friend and former mentor Issi Russell was there to update me.
The class was stacked with a range of doggy related creations, dog beds, a rocking dog and a number of beautiful collars and leads. Unfortunately I didn't place in this stacked class, but I did win a Premium Award for excellent craftsmanship which I am very proud of and is only awarded to entries who score 75 or higher in judging.
I am now looking forward to the release of the 2022 schedule to see what classes are on and what to enter.
My entry into the 2021 Annual Society of Master Saddlers National Saddlery Competition.
Ordering a bespoke dog collar or belt? Please read the measuring guide to ensure you order the correct size.
Dog Collars
When measuring for your new dog collar, the best option is to measure the internal length of a current collar adjusted to how you like it fitted. To do this, remove the collar from your dog and do it up at the desired fitting, then with a flexible tape measure measure around the inside of the collar. This length will be where the middle hole will fit on your new collar.
You can also measure around your dogs neck. Place the tape measure around your dogs neck where the collar will sit and to a tightness that you like.We will use the measurements provided as the internal measurement and add 2 larger and 2 smaller holes for adjustment.
Belts
The best way is to measure your current belt from the inside of the buckle to the hole that is used most. You can also use a tape measure and measure around your waist where your belt will sit.
We will add 3 larger and 3 smaller holes for adjustment.