In a heartwarming exchange between Al Dunning and Sam Gemaehlich, the depths of tradition, craft, and personal history are explored, shedding light on the profound connections that define our shared western heritage. Here’s a look into their conversation, rich with personal anecdotes and insights into the art of braiding.
Discovering the Craft
Sam shared that his braiding journey started 11 years ago. Initially taken up by his wife, who took weekly lessons from, renowned horseman and braider, Don Brown. As her commitments grew, Sam transformed her hobby into his passion.
The Artistic Journey Begins
Al Dunning’s curiosity about Sam’s start in braiding unveils a decade-old tale. Sam Gemaehlich recalls the transfer of an unfinished set of paracord romal reins from his wife as the beginning of his artistic journey.
Trading horse training on a buckskin horse for lessons in braiding, Sam’s path to braiding mastery began. He quickly realized his potential in the craft, with the horse’s owner, Ralph Dillon, an accomplished braider himself, echoing the sentiment. Marking the start of a promising endeavor.
Mentorship played a pivotal role in Sam’s development as a braider. Don Brown’s guidance over the phone and the exchange of skills with Ralph Dillon were crucial to his growth in this traditional craft, showcasing the importance of community support.
Sam’s partnership with his wife in braiding illustrates a story of mutual growth. Their shared experiences, from ranching to professional endeavors, deepen their appreciation for one another’s passions, creating a symbiotic relationship that enriches their crafts.
The Joy of Braiding
For Sam, braiding is not just a task; rather, it is a soothing escape. He finds joy in thinking about styles and colors, and his best work often comes from spontaneous late-night inspiration, a testament to his artistic spirit.
Sam Gemaehlich reveals that the therapeutic nature of braiding provides a peaceful refuge. Early mornings bring him the serenity to craft his best pieces. With the silence of dawn fueling his creativity and passion for the art form
Sam speaks of braiding as a meditative process. The craft provides him a soothing respite, especially when free from the pressure of deadlines. His creative process is introspective, often involving late-night design sessions where his artistic visions come to life.
More Than Just a Craft
Braiding for Sam intertwines with his lifestyle and history of working with horses. His firsthand experience in ranching is reflected in his designs, which prioritize functionality and comfort alongside aesthetic beauty.
Sam’s vision for the future is clear; he aims to create pieces that resonate with the practical needs of western professionals. His focus is on crafting items that are both beautiful and functional. Moreover; he aims to meet the demands of the horse training world.
Al and Sam Gemaehlich reminisce about their experiences in the horse industry. Sam’s time spent starting colts and ranching has informed his current focus on braiding. This ensures his creations are as practical as they are artful.
The Philosophy Behind the Craft
The conversation concludes with a focus on the philosophy of creating functional cowboy gear. The utilitarian aspect of horse training is pivotal to Sam’s work, thereby influencing his commitment to producing gear that serves both aesthetic and practical purposes.
This dialogue at aldunning.com reveals the intricate skills of braiding and the personal histories that shape a craftsman’s work. Sam’s evolution from a casual braider to a master craftsman illustrates the beauty of discovering one’s niche and thriving through passion and dedication.