There are many, many different ways of plaiting the mane and tail of your horse or pony, and sometimes tack and turnout requirements for showing will dictate that your horse be presented plaited (if they are not hogged) or at least, it is generally considered appropriate turnout and good etiquette to plait for certain showing classes and events. A well-presented and neat tail plait can look incredibly impressive, as can the small bun-like mane plaits generally seen in showing. However, to the novice or first time plater, they can also appear incredibly difficult to do; but don’t be put off, you may find that plaiting your horse or pony is easier than you think! A tail plait is the same as a French plait on a person; if you can already do a French plait, a tail plait will be simple!
Top Tips
Wash your horses mane makes it easier to pull through
Comb the mane and smooth it out through thoroughly with a good brush so it’s tangle-free, then use a dampened sponge or plaiting spray to smooth the hairs over so they lie neatly to the right-hand side of his neck.
Section your horses mane, decide how many plaits you want, then section your horse’s mane into bunches, working from poll to wither. A plaiting band wrapped around your mane comb will help you check the width of each plait.
Start plaiting working from the poll, plait each section, keeping the base loose to avoid pinching your horse’s neck but making the length tight to keep it neat. Secure with a plaiting band, leaving some slack for the next step.
Secure your plait To secure your plaits, you can use a needle and thread or bands, but the latter are certainly easier! To roll up, fold each plait in half, then half again, and wrap the band around it repeatedly to secure.
Fix is forelock plaits can be done as French plaits, or by simply plaiting the length of his hair, then rolling up as the rest of his mane. Trim loose hairs and use a dash of fixing product if necessary to finish the look.
Come and see what Edgemere have to help you with your plaiting.
