This harness is missing only two pieces: the throat latch for the headstall and one of the traces, which function to attach the harness to the actual cart or carriage. The buckle on one of the lines (reins) also needs replacing. Fortunately, I know of some leather craftsmen who can make the missing parts and replace the buckle.
I'll post photos of the harness in use as soon as it's ready.

The restoration process to date:
Clean the leather with warm water and original Dawn dish soap.
Wipe dry.
Second cleaning of the leather with glycerine soap.
Conditioning of the leather, twice, with Lexol leather conditioner.

Many thanks go to Polo for an excellent job modeling. Polo is an Off The Track Thoroughbred, OTTB, originally trained for flat racing. He's never worn a harness before!

#harnessrehab

I love tack sales and swaps. They're a bit like a treasure hunt. I never knows what cool, unusual, didn't-know-I-needed-it things I will find. They're also a practical way of recycling and saving money. Horses are expensive to keep, so I do try to buy used whenever it's both possible and practical to do so. I also love the camaraderie that develops as a result of a tack sale. Being able to "talk horse" with like-minded people often results in new knowledge and fun stories. 
I'm off to a sale this weekend, with the goal of selling the items I have on hand, ultimately freeing up some space in my house. 
The sale I'm attending has been organized by the Pinto Organization of Kentucky and will be held Saturday, April 5th, from 9am - 2pm at the Harrison County Fairgrounds, 2500 US Route 27, Cynthiana, KY. 
If you're in the area, stop buy, say hello, and shop.
Kim

Above is the latest piece from Off The Track Designs. This bridle rack was a commissioned piece. The board has been stained red mahogany and is protected by several coats of polyurethane. The hook in the center was purchased separately by the owner and affixed to the rack. This lovely piece is already hanging in the barn, holding bridles, halters and helmets.

This rack is a work in progress. It will be a personal piece and hand painted to resemble a 19th century Paisley Shawl that has passed through my family for generations. I can't wait to finish it!

Finally, after a few more rides, I've decided to sell my new-to-me saddle. It is a 2010-model M. Toulouse Annice close contact saddle. 18" seat, medium, spring tree with matching M. Toulouse stirrup leathers. I love the flap position and length (13.5") as well as the grippy leather. It's a very balanced saddle and quite comfortable to ride in. I've found that I prefer a flatter seat to really get off my horses' backs while cantering and jumping. 
For more information, check out the M.Toulouse Annice page in the Tack Sale.  Thanks for looking!