How to Customise an Antique Rocking Horse with Authentic Tack and Accessories

Antique and vintage rocking horses are historic treasures, bringing together beautiful craftsmanship as well as a sense of nostalgia. Customising your rocking horse with authentic tack and accessories can enhance its charm and restore its historical integrity. Whether you’re aiming for a full restoration or adding a few bespoke touches, this guide will help you achieve a look that stays true to the rocking horse’s origins while adding a personal touch.

1. Choosing the Right Saddle

The saddle is one of the most prominent features of a rocking horse and deserves careful consideration, here are some areas to think about when choosing a new saddle for your rocking horse:

• Authentic Materials: Opt for leather saddles to mimic the look and feel of traditional equestrian tack. It is worth investing in high-quality leather that will last, especially if the rocking horse will be ridden.
• Design Style: Research the era of your rocking horse to match the saddle’s design. For example, some saddles feature elaborate stitching and embossed details, while other models have simpler, utilitarian styles. There’s also a range of colours to choose from, from traditional black to more standout tan colours.
• Fit and Proportion: Ensure the saddle fits the rocking horse’s back securely and in proportion to its size. A poorly fitting saddle can detract from the horse’s appearance and authenticity. Small saddles are around 8 inches in length and range up to around 12 inches for large or extra-large saddles.
  
  

2. Adding a Bridle and Reins

A bridle and reins complete the look, giving your rocking horse a lifelike and polished finish. Similarly to saddles, there are a few design variations with bridles, keep in mind the following:

• Leather Bridles: Leather is again the preferred material, offering durability and an authentic feel. Choose a shade that matches the saddle for a cohesive appearance. Choose a bridle with a flat noseband and browband which are especially suited to finer faces.
• Buckles and Metalwork: Look for brass or nickel buckles to replicate traditional equestrian hardware. Vintage-style fastenings can add an extra layer of authenticity to your tack.
• Martingale: For extra detail, a leather martingale with decorative accents can add sophistication, especially if your rocking horse is a centrepiece or heirloom. Again, it’s usually worth opting for the same colour leather as your chosen bridle and saddle.

3. Stirrups and Girth Straps

Stirrups and girth straps are an essential accessory, particularly for rocking horses that are functional and may be ridden by children.  

• Vintage-Style Stirrups: Choose the correct size of stirrups for your rocking horse. Often available in small, medium or large, with some of the larger ones having a pear-shape to them; brass or nickel is again the go-to colour for these accessories.
• Girth Straps: Use sturdy leather or fabric straps to secure the saddle. If you’re restoring an antique piece, look for original girth loops and use them to maintain authenticity.

4. Selecting the Right Accessories

Accessories can enhance your rocking horse from a simple toy to a statement piece or collector’s item. Here are some things to consider:

• Manes and Tails: It is possible to replace worn manes and tails with high-quality horsehair for a realistic texture. Choose colours that align with the rocking horse’s original style or a contrasting option for that colour pop.
• Decorative Accents: Many antique rocking horses feature painted details or decorative trim. If these are damaged or faded, consider hiring a professional restorer to add back those intricate touches.
• Saddle Pads: A small, quilted saddle pad or faux sheepskin numnah can add a pop of colour and sophistication. Saddle clothes can be a range of colours with some extra decorative trim around the edges for that extra personalisation.

5. Restoring or Refinishing the Base

The base of the rocking horse is just as important as the horse itself. Whether it’s bow rockers or a stand mechanism, it plays a key role in the overall presentation.

• Stability: Firstly, check for any loose joints or screws and repair them to ensure the rocking horse is safe for use or display.
• Wood Finishing: If the wood and fixings of the stand are structurally sound but there are scratches or imperfections they can usually be repaired and restored. However, if you’re unsure, it is best to get the wood professionally treated so it looks it’s best for years to come.
• Metal Components: Lastly, if your rocking horse has metal fixings or parts, clean them thoroughly and apply a protective coating to prevent rust build up.

6. Incorporating Personal Touches

Customising your rocking horse doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice individuality. You can add the following personal touches that make the horse uniquely yours:

• Engraved Nameplates: Add a small brass or wooden nameplate to the base with the horse’s name or a sentimental message.
• Seasonal Decorations: You can swap your horses tack and accessories depending on the season, for example, opting for Christmas coloured saddle cloths and perhaps some tinsel reins!

FAQs About Antique Rocking Horse Customisation

Q: Can I use modern materials to restore my rocking horse?

A: While modern materials can be used for durability, it’s best to choose materials that mimic the original look, such as leather, horsehair, and traditional wood stains.

Q: How do I know what style of tack matches my rocking horse?

A: Research the era and manufacturer of your rocking horse. Companies like FH Ayres, and G & J Lines often have distinctive designs that can guide your customisation choices.

Q: Where can I find authentic rocking horse tack?

A: Many specialist retailers, like Elite Saddlery, offer bespoke rocking horse tack, replacement parts, and accessories tailored to vintage and antique rocking horses.

While customising, keep in mind the value and history of the rocking horse. Over-restoration can diminish the antique charm or reduce its worth as a collector’s item. Aim to preserve original features whenever possible and seek professional advice for significant repairs or restorations.

Customising an antique rocking horse with authentic tack and accessories is a rewarding project that breathes new life into a cherished piece of history. By carefully selecting and fitting saddles, bridles, and accessories that match its era and maker, you can create a timeless piece to be treasured for future generations. Whether restoring an antique or simply adding a personal touch, the right tack and accessories can make all the difference. If you’re unsure about any part of the process or need help selecting the right items, contact us and we’ll be more than happy to assist you finding the perfect pieces.