Rocking Horse Restorations

These heirloom rocking horses often arrive from clients in very poor condition: peeling paintwork, split and cracked timber, missing parts.

Stephen is a specialist in vintage rocking horse restoration. On the horse itself, repairs are made to broken or cracked limbs, head, neck or other joints. To make the horse safe for use, toxic lead-based paint is removed and replaced with numerous coats of primer and finish coats of premium lead-free paint imitating its original decoration. It is then finely detailed with a traditional tartan saddle blanket with leather trim, and all-new leather strapping bridle, reins and saddle and new aluminium stirrups. Like the originals, Stephen uses real horsehair for manes, tails and forelocks.

Restorations also include attention to the stand which often requires a total reconstruction and repaint. New polished brass hardware is used for replacement swing iron brackets, bits and bowler hats.

Stephen’s skillfully restored horse often receives an emotional “welcome home” from its happy owner.