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Sleigh Bell Restoration

Our sleigh bell restoration service is dedicated to bringing your cherished holiday bells back to their former glory. I understand the sentimental value these bells hold, often passed down through generations. I offer a customized approach to each strap of bells. Not all bells require a full cleaning or polishing. I will make recommendations, but ultimately, that is up to the customer. The process begins with a thorough cleaning to remove dirt and grime, while carefully preserving the original finish. Next, expert polishing is done to ensure each bell gleams beautifully, accentuating their intricate designs and craftsmanship. I also specialize in designing and creating new leather straps to replace worn or damaged ones. The selection includes various types, from classic single leather straps to more decorative options, allowing you to customize your bells to fit your personal style. Whether you have antique sleigh bells or modern ones in need of a refresh, I am committed to delivering the highest quality restoration to ensure your bells are ready to ring in the holiday cheer for many years to come.

Before image of old brass crotal bells on original doubled leather straps with keeper loops

BEFORE

After image of restored strap of bells: polished on a black doubled strap with keeper loops

AFTER

If you'd like your set of classic sleigh bells brought back to their former glory, we can do that for you. From richly textured details to colored borders and everything in- between. Whether your vision is a simple, elegant string of bells, to a more elaborate, eye- catching creation, we can personalize it to create a truly unique heirloom. We invite you to email us with your creative ideas for your next sleigh bell restoration project. For inspiration, we encourage you to browse our portfolio showcasing past commissions and the diverse styles we've brought to life.

 

Types of Bells We Restore

-Petal Bells: Bells with petal or horseshoe designs on them

-Round Ridge Bells: Similar to petal bells but without decoration

-Globe Bells: Smooth egg-shaped bells

-Specialty Bells: Unusual designs such as fish scales, acorns or raspberry pattern

- Shank style Bells: Attach to the strap via a bell pin

-Rivet style bells: Bells that attach to the strap with rivets

-Double or Triple Throat Bells: Bells that have more than one slit or "throat"

Assessment & Consultation

Submit details and photographs for a comprehensive condition assessment. We'll then consult with you to determine the best approach for cleaning, polishing, and lacquering, based on your desired outcome.

Cleaning & Polishing

To initiate the cleaning and polishing of your bells, we first soak them to dislodge ingrained dirt and oily buildup. Subsequently, each bell receives a careful hand cleaning utilizing a specialized water- based detergent. You have the choice of preserving the bells with their natural warm brown glow, or we can proceed with a professional polishing to reveal a radiant, golden gleam.

Optional Lacquering

For polished bells that are to be minimally handled, a clear lacquer coating is available as an option to deter tarnishing and ensure their enduring sheen. This specialized lacquer offers a nearly imperceptible layer of protection.

Strap Replacement

Whether you're keeping a cherished heirloom together or seeking a distinctive piece for your equestrian endeavors, your sleigh bells deserve to be showcased with grace and durability. We offer:

-Expert craftsmanship

 

-Premium materials

 

-Personalized service

 

-Custom Design

Bell & Strap Kits

We offer premium leather strap work and sleigh bell kits to those that would like to try restringing their bells at home. We can copy your original strap or help you design something completely different. 

How to Get Started

-Decide what you would like done with the bells and the strap.

-Check out my custom portfolio of work for lots of inspiration. 

-Email me with good, clear photos of your bells, how many there are and what you would like done with them.

- I will email you to discuss the project, price, timeline, etc.

- Ship the bells , along with a 50% down payment to:

   

   Clark Harness

  1918 North Yoki Road

  Forbes, MN 55738 

What to Expect

Upon receipt of your bells, we'll confirm their arrival and the project's official start. We believe in transparency and keeping you fully informed. You'll receive regular updates on the projects progress, including email notifications and photographic documentation. This allows you to witness the transformation of your bells every step of the way. Once the restoration is complete, we'll notify you via email, and the remaining balance will be due before your bells are carefully packaged and shipped back to you, ready to be enjoyed for years to come. 

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Clark Harness

1918 North Yoki Road

Forbes, MN 55738

(218) 251- 3754

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