How to Make a Standard Lariat Rope Halter

Equestrians and horse owners know that a good quality halter is essential tack for caring for your horse. Rather than purchasing a basic nylon halter, learn how to braid your own lariat rope halter from materials you likely already have at home. Braiding your own tack adds a personalized touch and gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment in your craft. This tutorial will walk you through braiding a simple yet sturdy lariat rope halter suitable for daily use on most horses.

Materials Needed

To get started, you will need the following materials:

• Rope - Use a 1/2 inch diameter rope made from cotton, polypropylene, or nylon. A single strand of rope cut to 42 inches will work.
• Mule tape - Cut 4 pieces of braiding material like mule tape to 20 feet each.

You may also need scissors or a sharp knife to cut the materials, and tape to secure knots as you work.

Preparing the Rope

The first step is to prepare the single piece of rope that will become the main strap of the halter:

1. Cut a single strand of rope to 42 inches in length.
2. Mark the rope into six inch sections by wrapping tape around the rope or tying knots.
3. Fray the ends of each six inch section by pulling the fibers apart to prevent unraveling.
4. Secure an overhand knot at one end by taping it to hold its shape as you tighten the knot.

Now the main rope strap is prepared and ready for braiding.

Braiding the Lead Rope

Next, braid the lead rope attachment using the four 20 foot pieces of mule tape:

1. Find the center point of the four mule tape strands and lay them out so they are evenly spaced.
2. Pass the prepared rope strap behind and then back through the front of the mule tape strands.
3. Braid the mule tape into a four-strand round braid for 7 feet to create the lead rope.
4. Secure the end with an overhand knot and trim any excess material.

The lead rope is now complete. From here, additional pieces will be braided and attached to finish the halter.

Adding the Chin Strap and Cheek Pieces

Follow these steps to braid the remaining pieces of the halter:

Chin Strap:

1. Braid a four-strand round braid using two strands of mule tape for 4 inches.
2. Continue braiding for an additional 5-6 inches and tie a loop to thread back through the braid.

First Cheek Piece:

1. Cut two 10 foot pieces of mule tape and find the centers.
2. Braid a four-strand round braid for 9.5 inches and continue braiding the lead rope portion for 6 more inches.
3. Thread the braided end back through the chin strap piece.

Second Cheek Piece:

1. Repeat the process of braiding two 10 foot mule tape strands.
2. Braid to 9.5 inches and continue braiding the lead portion to 18.5 inches total.
3. Thread through the first cheek piece and chin strap to complete the halter.

The rope halter is now fully assembled. Burn the ends, attach a buckle, and your homemade halter is ready to use!

FAQs

What size rope should I use?

For most average sized horses, a single 1/2 inch diameter rope cut to 42 inches works well for the main strap. You can adjust the length as needed for smaller or larger horses.

Can I substitute materials?

Yes, you can use different types of rope or braiding materials depending on what you have available. Just be sure to use materials sturdy enough for use on a horse.

How do I finish the ends?

To prevent fraying and add a clean finish, burn the cut ends of the rope and braiding materials with a matches or lighter. Be careful not to breath in fumes or allow the ends to ignite fully.

How do I attach a buckle?

After assembling the halter, attach a standard horse halter buckle to the completed lead rope portion using a larks head knot.

How do I adjust the size?

The length of the main strap and individual braided pieces can be adjusted to fit horses of varying sizes. Measure against your horse to determine the proper dimensions.

Summary

By following this tutorial, you can braid your own basic lariat rope halter using materials likely already in your tack room or hardware store. Taking the time to make your own horse tack is rewarding and results in a functional halter uniquely suited to your equine partner's needs. Get creative by experimenting with different braiding patterns or colored ropes to craft a personalized style. Most importantly, enjoy spending quality time with your horse while completing this simple DIY project.

Let me know if you have any other questions! And be sure to tag @gonewesterntackco on social media if you decide to try this tutorial yourself.