fitting the bosal

Question
Hi!
I need help shaping my bosal. I have been told to soak it in water, but I am afraid to do that...anyway, I have also been shown years ago how to shape it with a coffee can,,
But I can't remember how.
Could you tell me how long to soak the bosal, if I need to add anything to the water, and how to shape it?
I appreciate this.
Thanks again,
Lori

Answer
Hi Lori!

A friend made a block for me years ago and I love it!  It makes and keeps my bosal's perfect!  It looks like a piece of 2 X 6 tongue and groove that has a groove on each side.  I will have to measure it for you and post the exact dimensions...  The block fits inside the bosal and the sides nest in the grooves.  I have a string that I tie around the middle to compress the bosal to the block.  I then tip the noseband down slightly and keep it stored this way.  My mecate is attached also.  It keeps the bosal in a perfect oblong frame.

I never use water it can really spoil the rawhide.  I simply leave the bosal in the block and in about a weeks time it is shaped great.  I also store my bosal in the block to keep the shape.  

Congratulations on getting your horse into the bosal.  It means you have progressed out of the snaffle bit and direct rein to the hackamore and an indirect rein.  This is an advanced step and shows that you have worked hard.  Next step is the two-rein and then straight up in the bridle!  You go girl!

I'll post again with the exact measurements of the block.  You can use a 1# coffee can if you smash it just a bit.  I like the block better...Denise

Lori!!!  Hi Again!  I measured my block and it is 3 1/2" X 3 1/2" square.  If you know anyone with a router, have them make grooves so that the side of your bosal fits down in them.  It keeps the bosal from popping out.  Mine has a little hole drilled through one corner for the tie string.

When you tie the bosal it goes up toward the noseband end.  I didn't think I made this clear in my first answer.  If your bosal has decorative knots just past the nose band tie your string between the knots and the block.  Yikes, I wish I could just SHOW  you!

We are trying to get the bosal to hang level on the horses head, which is why a fiador is often used. You can look for pictures on the web for the fiador knot and how to attach it to your bosal hanger.  Happy Trails!  Denise