How to Masterfully Put Together a Bridle
Putting together a bridle can feel like solving a leather-scented jigsaw puzzle—especially if you’ve taken it apart without paying close attention. (Don’t worry, we’ve all had that “uh-oh” moment.) In today’s video, I walk you through how to masterfully put together a bridle, step by step. Below is a written guide to follow along or refer back to when you’re wrangling all those straps and buckles.
Bridle Parts You’ll Need
Before we start, here are the key parts of a traditional English bridle (shown in the video):
- Crownpiece
- Browband
- Noseband
- Cheekpieces (2)
- Reins
- Bit
Step-by-Step Guide to Masterfully Putting Together a Bridle
Step 1: Hang Your Crownpiece
Start with the crownpiece and hang it somewhere stable—like a doorknob or tack hook. We’ll orient everything as if you’re facing your horse.
The long throatlatch should be on the left, and the shorter piece of leather (which will connect to the cheekpiece) should be closer to you.
Step 2: Add the Browband
Slide the browband over both ends of the crownpiece. If your browband has a right side up (like with decoration or stitching), be sure to follow the instructions in the video to align it properly.
Step 3: Thread the Noseband
Take your noseband and:
- Slide it underneath the crownpiece and through the browband.
- Follow it up and over your hanging hook or knob (still beneath the crownpiece).
- Thread it through the other side of the browband and buckle it.
It should now sit snugly under the crownpiece, with the straps resting neatly.
Step 4: Attach the Cheekpieces
Grab your two cheekpieces—these connect the bit to the crownpiece.
- On each side, attach the cheekpiece to the thinner strap closer to the front (aka the horse’s forehead).
- On the left side, this should be obvious, since the other piece is the long throatlatch.
Step 5: Connect the Bit
Now for the bit—arguably the most important piece.
- Make sure you orient it correctly (details are in the video—watch how it closes and sits in the mouth).
- Attach each side of the bit to the bottom of each cheekpiece.
Pro tip: You’re still working as if you’re facing the horse—this helps with correct orientation.
Step 6: Attach the Reins
Almost there! Take your reins and:
- Attach them to the bottom rings of the bit, opposite the direction of the browband and noseband.
- Ensure the smooth, “pretty” side of the reins faces away from the horse’s neck.
- If your reins are twisted, you can fix that using the buckle in the middle.
Final Check – Masterfully Put Together Bridle
Take a moment to step back and admire your work—your bridle should now look as sleek and functional as it did before you bravely took it apart.
Wrapping Up
Bridle assembly doesn’t have to be intimidating. Once you understand each part and how they work together, it becomes second nature.
Watch the full video to see every step in action—and don’t forget to save or bookmark this guide for next time you find yourself staring at a pile of leather going, “Wait… what?”
There are so many different types of bridles and if you are needing help identifying or measuring your horse for a bridle I recommend checking out SmartPak via this link!
Unsure of what the difference between a halter and bridle is? Check out my other post on this!
Cheers!
—B