Hitched Horsehair Belt (Custom Order Only)

Process:  Each belt begins as a fine horsetail, then the hair is removed without harming or discomforting the animal. In fact, harvesting the horse hair is beneficial.
The hair is gathered into a “hank,” as it is called at this point, and is then cleaned and sorted. The raw hair, some of which is colored with natural pigments, is then separated and twisted by weavers into “hair-pulls.” “Hitching” with horsehair involves making stitches similar to half-hitch knots in a concentric arrangement on a wooden or wire dowel. This technique is the method for making the beautiful geometric designs in our belts. It takes about 1 hour to hitch about ½” – 1” length of belt, which can translate to 1 or 2 weeks—so it is a very time consuming process.

The horsehair tubes are flattened, hand tooled leather billets are added, and a distinctive “Hitched Horsehair” belt is created.

Function:  Hitched horsehair belts are very flexible and comfortable—in fact they have a bit of stretch.  They are also very durable,  and will last a very long time.  If you wear the leather portion out, the leather can be replaced and the horsehair can be re-used.  The only caution with these belts is not to use a metal clip to clip on a holster or cell phone, as this may cut the hairs.

If you already have a hitched horsehair belt that doesn’t fit you, we can change out the leather for you.  Please call us to inquire.