Riding Saddles Throughout the Ages

With over 60 years of hands-on workshop experience, Robert H. Steinke is one of Ireland’s most respected traditional saddlers and harness makers. Trained under the Queen’s Saddler and educated at Cordwainers College, London, Robert has dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the time-honoured skills of leatherwork and saddlery.

From his workshop in Gorey, Co. Wexford, Robert creates fine carriage-driving harness, showing bridles, and carries out intricate restorations on vintage leatherwork. His books are standard texts in saddlery and leathercraft colleges worldwide, and he is a regular contributor to heritage exhibitions and craft events, including the Royal Dublin Horse Show.

Now, through his YouTube channel – Rob Steinke, Robert opens the doors of his workshop to the public, offering a rare glimpse into the traditional craft of saddlery. Each video brings his expert knowledge to life, with demonstrations, stories, and historical context — perfect for enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in heritage craftsmanship.

For National Heritage Week this year Rober is putting together a selection of illustrations, historical information, and a film from my Harness Makers Workshop near Gorey, Wexford. It will be viewed as a video and possibly at a venue.

Whether you are familiar with Robert's books or new to the world of saddlery, his channel offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from a master craftsman.

Visit the YouTube channel link below.

Explore. Learn. Enjoy — and don’t forget to subscribe to his channel for future projects from the workshop!