A tack room is the heart of any equestrian facility. It’s where you store your riding gear, horse care products, and other essentials. But let’s face it, with the constant hustle and bustle of a busy barn, keeping this space well-organized can be a challenge. If you’ve ever spent an eternity rummaging through a cluttered tack room looking for that one piece of equipment, you know exactly what we’re talking about. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide on DIY tack room ideas.
So, saddle up and read on for creative and budget-friendly ways to transform your tack room into a functional, well-organized, and stylish space that reflects your unique equestrian style.
1. Decoding the Tack Room
Before we dive into the world of DIY tack room ideas, let’s take a moment to revisit the basics. What exactly is a tack room?
In essence, a tack room is a dedicated space within or adjacent to a stable that houses riding equipment. This includes saddles, bridles, halters, boots, grooming tools, horse care products, and even awards and trophies. Tack rooms can range from compact storage trunks to spacious rooms, depending on the size of your barn and the amount of equipment you have.
The goal of a well-organized tack room is simple: to keep all your horse-related items in a neat, clean, and easily accessible manner. This not only saves time and effort but also prolongs the life of your valuable equipment.
2. The Planning Phase
The first step in creating a well-organized tack room is planning. Start by making a list of all the items you need to store. This could include riding gear, horse care products, feed, medicines, and more. Once you have your list, group similar items together. This will make it easier to design specific storage solutions for each category.
Next, consider the space you have available. Whether it’s a small corner of your barn or a large dedicated room, make sure to utilize every inch effectively. Keep in mind that your tack room should be functional, easy to navigate, and, above all, safe for both you and your horses.
3. DIY Barn Organization Ideas
One of the most effective ways to organize a tack room is by dividing it into different sections. This approach not only maximizes space but also makes it easier to locate items quickly. Here are some popular barn organization ideas to inspire you:
a. Saddle and Bridle Area
Saddles and bridles are key pieces of horse riding equipment, so it’s crucial to store them properly. Saddle racks or stands are a great way to keep saddles in prime condition, while bridle hooks or hangers can be used to organize bridles and halters. For a unique and rustic feel, consider creating a saddle stand using reclaimed wood or repurposing old cabinets to store bridles.
Here’s one from Sstack.com that I personally use.
b. Feed and Supplement Station
If you’re storing feed and supplements in your tack room, consider dedicating a specific area for these items. You can use airtight bins or containers to keep feed fresh and deter pests. A repurposed old freezer or a steel bin can serve as a safe and sturdy feed storage solution.
Here’s a feed station that I recommend from HorseTackOnline.com.
c. Grooming Supplies Corner
A grooming supplies corner is another must-have in a tack room. You can use a portable grooming tote or hang a basket on the wall to store brushes, combs, hoof picks, and other grooming tools.
Here’s a grooming caddy that I recommend from RidingWarehouse.com.
d. Medicine Cabinet
A medicine cabinet is essential for storing horse health products like dewormers, wound care supplies, and supplements. Use clear plastic containers or cubicle-style shelves to keep medicines organized and easy to find.
Personally, I like the customizable medicine cabinets at TactTrunks.com.
4. Creative Tack Room Storage Ideas
Now that you’ve divided your tack room into sections, it’s time to get creative with storage solutions. Here are some tack room storage ideas that combine functionality and style:
a. Re-purposed File Cabinet
Transform an old file cabinet into a multi-purpose storage unit. This is a perfect place to store shovels, rakes, and other barn tools. You can easily find used cabinets at garage sales or thrift stores, and with a bit of paint, you can make them match your tack room’s theme.
b. Bucket Hose Holder
A simple yet effective idea is to repurpose a steel pail as a hose holder. This not only keeps your hose neatly coiled but also provides a handy storage spot for brushes and other washing supplies.
c. Garbage Bin Storage
Garbage bins can be surprisingly versatile when it comes to tack room storage. They can hold anything from wraps to whips and can even serve as grain storage units when fitted into a wooden frame.
5. Western Tack Room Ideas
If you’re a western rider, why not infuse some cowboy charm into your tack room? Here are some western tack room ideas to get you started:
a. Rustic Wood Accents
Nothing says “western” like rustic wood. Incorporate wooden saddle racks, shelves, and storage trunks into your tack room for a traditional western look. You can even use old barn wood or pallets for a truly authentic feel.
b. Horseshoe Decor
Horseshoes are not only a symbol of good luck but also a staple in western decor. Use horseshoes as hooks for hanging bridles and halters, or create a unique horseshoe rack for storing bits.
c. Cowboy Hat Display
If you have a collection of cowboy hats, display them proudly in your tack room. A simple wooden peg rail can serve as a stylish and practical hat rack.
6. Tack Room Ideas on a Budget
Organizing your tack room doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and some DIY spirit, you can create a beautiful and functional space even on a tight budget. Here are some tack room ideas on a budget to inspire you:
a. DIY Saddle Rack
Why settle for store-bought when you can build a saddle rack tailored to your needs? With some scrap lumber and basic tools, you can create a durable rack without denting your wallet. This DIY venture not only saves money but lets you design a rack that fits your saddles flawlessly. The satisfaction of building something useful adds a personal touch to your tack room.
For a step-by-step guide on constructing a saddle rack, explore this insightful article from HorseGrail.com, which offers a variety of designs catering to different skill levels. Your weekend project awaits!
b. Velcro Boot Holder
Create a practical and cute boot wall using inexpensive industrial Velcro strips. This is a great way to keep your boots organized and easily accessible.
c. Rolling Tack Cart
A rolling tack cart can make your life much easier, especially if you frequently travel for shows. With some basic materials and a bit of DIY, you can create your own rolling tack cart that can hold all your riding gear.
7. Horse Blanket Storage Ideas
Storing horse blankets can be a challenge due to their size and bulkiness. However, with the right storage solution, you can keep your blankets neat, clean, and ready for use. Here are some horse blanket storage ideas to consider:
a. Blanket Bins
Large plastic containers are perfect for storing horse blankets. Once the blankets are clean and dry, simply fold them and place them in the bin. Don’t forget to label the bins with the horse’s name and type of blanket for easy identification.
I have loved the bins I bought from JeffersPet.com and highly recommend them if you’re looking for a simple yet practical bin.
b. Overhead Drying Rack
An overhead drying rack can be a real space-saver in a tack room. You can use it to store and dry blankets and saddle pads, making them always ready to use.
8. Tack Room Organization Ideas
An organized tack room is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. Here are some tack room organization ideas to help you create a well-organized space:
a. Label Everything
Labels can be a game-changer when it comes to organization. Label every storage container, shelf, and drawer in your tack room. This will make it easy to find what you need and also ensure that everything goes back to its designated spot.
b. Use Storage Baskets
Storage baskets are versatile and can be used to store a variety of items, from grooming supplies to horse treats. You can place them on shelves, inside cabinets, or even hang them on the wall.
c. Install Pegboards
Pegboards are a great way to utilize wall space in your tack room. They can be used to hang bridles, halters, leads, and other tack items. Plus, you can easily rearrange the hooks to accommodate new items.
9. Small Tack Room Ideas
If your tack room is on the smaller side, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to maximize space and keep everything organized. Here are some small tack room ideas to consider:
a. Vertical Storage
When space is limited, think vertically. Install tall shelves, use over-the-door organizers, or hang items on the wall to make the most of your vertical space.
b. Multi-Purpose Furniture
Choose furniture that serves multiple purposes. For example, a bench with built-in storage can provide seating while also keeping your items organized.
c. Use Storage Bins
Storage bins can help you keep your items organized and easy to find. They can be stacked to save space, and their contents can easily be labeled for quick identification.
10. Add Your Personal Style
Your tack room should not only be functional but also reflect your personal style. Here are some ideas to add some flair to your tack room:
a. Decorate with Horse Art
Hang up prints or paintings of your favorite horses, or display trophies and ribbons you’ve won at horse shows. This will add a personal touch and make your tack room feel like a true equestrian space.
b. Use Coordinated Storage Containers
Choose storage containers in a specific color or pattern to give your tack room a coordinated look. This can make your tack room look more organized and stylish.
c. Add Comfortable Seating
Add a comfortable chair or bench where you can sit and relax after a long ride. This can make your tack room feel more inviting and comfortable.
Final Thoughts on DIY Horse Tack Rooms
Whether you’re designing a new tack room or looking to improve your current one, these DIY tack room ideas can help you create a space that is both functional and stylish. Remember, the key to a well-organized tack room is to plan ahead, make the most of your space, and add your personal touch. Happy organizing!
