TCAA Master Saddlemakers Criteria

Traditional Cowboy Arts Association Saddlemaking Discipline

Proposed Membership Qualification Standards

The applicant’s saddle must demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship, functional understanding, and artistic ability consistent with the standards of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association (TCAA).

1. Construction

The saddle must demonstrate sound construction methods, precision, and attention to detail.

• Tree and foundation: Proper selection, preparation, fit, and integration of the tree and ground seat.
• Leatherwork: Appropriate material selection, preparation, cutting, shaping, and fitting.
• Assembly: Accurate fitting of components, consistent stitching, and secure construction.
• Rigging and hardware: Proper installation and sound workmanship in all structural and load-bearing components.
• Finishing: Clean edges, seams, joints, and details throughout, including areas not readily visible.

Standard: The saddle demonstrates technical proficiency, durability, and quality workmanship throughout.

2. Functionality

The saddle must demonstrate an understanding of saddle design and its intended use.

• Design: Appropriate construction and component selection for the saddle’s intended purpose.
• Fit and balance: Sound principles of tree fit, seat design, balance, and proportion.
• Rigging: Proper placement, strength, and configuration for the intended application.
• Practical use: Components must function as intended and demonstrate consideration for the horse and rider.
• Safety: Structural and working components must be appropriately constructed for their intended use.

Standard: The saddle demonstrates that the maker understands not only how to build a saddle, but also how its design affects function, fit, and performance.

3. Artistry

The saddle must demonstrate individual artistic ability, thoughtful design, and respect for traditional Western saddlemaking.

• Design and composition: Intentional use of form, proportion, balance, and decorative elements.
• Tooling and carving: Where applicable, skilled execution, consistent technique, and well-composed patterns.
• Materials and finish: Thoughtful selection and integration of leather, color, texture, hardware, and finish.
• Attention to detail: Decorative and finishing work must be carefully executed and complement the overall design.
• Individual expression: The saddle reflects the maker’s artistic judgment while honoring traditional craftsmanship.

Artistry may be demonstrated through elaborate ornamentation or through simplicity, proportion, and exceptional execution. Elaborate tooling is not a requirement for artistic merit.

Standard: The saddle demonstrates a cohesive artistic vision, technical control, and individual expression.

Overall Qualification

The applicant’s saddle will be evaluated across all three categories: construction, functionality, and artistry.

The work must demonstrate a level of excellence consistent with the expectations of the TCAA saddlemaking discipline. Evaluation should recognize differences in saddle styles and individual artistic approaches while maintaining consistent standards of quality.

Meeting these qualifications establishes eligibility for membership consideration but does not guarantee acceptance. Final membership decisions remain subject to TCAA procedures.

Proposed for review and adoption by the TCAA Saddlemaking Discipline.

TCAA Master Bit & Spur Maker Criteria

These guidelines explain the level of skill and understanding expected of a maker whose work represents the standards of the TCAA. The goal is clarity—so a maker can evaluate their own work honestly and know exactly what is required.

1. Ornamentation Skills

A maker must demonstrate strong control over decorative work. This includes:

Engraving

• You should show mastery in at least one recognized style of engraving.
• Cuts must be clean, confident, and consistent in depth and flow.

Inlay Work

• Inlays (silver, gold, or other metals) must fit precisely with tight, even seams.
• Design should be intentional, not just “added on.”

Overlay & Soldering

• Overlays must be cleanly shaped, crisply edged, and fully attached with no visible solder gaps.
• Solder joints should be neat and structurally sound.

Design

• Your design work must be original—showing your voice, not someone else’s.
• All decorative elements should complement the overall bit or spur, not distract from it.
• The piece should feel unified: architecture, engraving, and materials working together.

2. Metalworking Skills

A maker must show solid, confident craftsmanship in the structure of the piece.

Surface Work

• Surfaces should be even and consistent from one part of the piece to another.
• No unintended dips, scratches, or flat spots.

Hand Skills

• You must show clear ability with files, stones, sandpaper, and other shaping tools.
• Tool marks should be intentional—never accidental.

Transitions & Architecture

• Structural transitions (shank to button, heel band to shank, mouthpiece to cheek, etc.) must be smooth, even, and visually balanced.
• The piece should feel architecturally sound and well-proportioned.

3. Understanding of Function

Regardless of ornamentation, the piece must function correctly as a bit or a spur.

Material Choices

• You must choose materials that are appropriate in type, thickness, strength, and weight for the intended use.

Purpose & Mechanics

• The mechanics of the bit or spur must reflect sound knowledge of horsemanship, leverage, balance, and comfort for both horse and rider.
• Moving parts must operate smoothly and reliably.

Overall Standard

The level of skill required in every category above must clearly set the maker apart from the general industry.

A TCAA maker does not simply make “good” work—they make work that is measurably elevated in design, execution, and functional understanding.

TCAA Master Rawhide Braiding Criteria

Traditional Cowboy Arts Association Master Rawhide Braiding Artist Requirements

The applicant must demonstrate a high level of Craftsmanship, Functional Understanding and Artistic Ability consistent with the standards of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association (TCAA).

• Serviceability
• Function
• Original Works
• Creativity
• Quality of Material
• Straight Work in Knots and Braids
• Range and Variety Showing Skill Set
• Show Ability to Make Any Piece of Horse Gear
• Show Artistic Design and Creativity without Compromising Function and Quality
• Willingness to Share Knowledge with Others
• Understand the Commitments of a TCAA Member.

TCAA Master Western Silversmith Criteria

Traditional Cowboy Arts Association Master Western Silversmith Artist Requirements

We are seeking a highly skilled artist to join our esteemed association. The ideal candidate should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Materials Expertise: In-depth knowledge and understanding of precious metals, including silver and gold.
• Engraving Mastery: Master level skills in Western Bright Cut Engraving, as well as Overlay and Filagree.
• Design and Function: Ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing designs that showcase Western Cowboy culture.
• Teaching and Sharing: Willingness and ability to teach and share their craft with others.
• Cultural Ambassadorship: Serve as an ambassador of Western Cowboy culture through their artistry in silver and gold metals.
• Production Requirements: Create a minimum of 3 Master level works for the annual exhibition and sale of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association.
• Business and Financial Acumen: Possess the business skills and financial ability to attend the required two meetings of the TCAA per year and membership dues at their own expense.

If you are a skilled artisan who embodies the spirit of Western Cowboy culture and meets these requirements, we encourage you to apply.