The DODEC Spindle-Style Wheel
Notes from the designer, Scott Porter:
This wheel is called the DODEC because of the Dodecagon (12-sided polygon) wheel that makes its construction approachable by people not familiar with woodworking.
When I began this project I called it the $7.00 Spinning Wheel because I figured my materials cost about that much. Later I went through and actually figured my costs. It came to exactly $6.89, but that didn't include the hinge because I had one lying around. The hinge I bought for my second wheel only cost 99 cents. So I guess the grand total comes to $7.88.
My Comments:
Although Mr. Porter designed this to be built by those with few tools or woodworking skills, he points out that imperfections will not affect its functionality. In fact, not only is this design "good enough" and a "real spinning wheel", but it has some features that some people may find superior, as explained in his videos.
Most spinning wheels in use have a flyer assembly. This is a spindle style wheel. So if you rub elbows with experienced spinners, you may end up educating them.
I have owned three spinning wheels during my life. Each of them has been sold, either because I felt they would be unsafe around my baby boy, were taking up space and gathering dust, or had some monetary value when I needed some cash. This little cutie knocks down and could easily be stored under the bed or hung on a wall, out of the way. And its value is only practical, so there won't be a temptation to get rid of it.
11/08/19
I'm doing most of the construction by hand except for using a power drill.
In one of the box springs that I tore apart, there are some 1 x 2's with a pretty grain effect, like bird's eye. I am using these pieces for my wheel, hoping that oiling will bring out the grain. I drew guide lines to make the one edge the 20 degree angle, and used 50 and 60 grit sandpaper to achieve those angles. Took a lot of elbow grease but really satisfying. I added some trim from the Re-store to the bottom of each piece.
The 4" pieces are glued/nailed together with fine brads, using templates to connect them at the right angle. I made a couple cardboard guides to reference true circles.
November 26, 2019
This one is done for my niece, to be gifted on Thanksgiving Day. I just got the strings on so I could try it. I love it, it works so well! Granted, I have spinning wheel experience, but I was immediately able to treadle frontwards and backwards. I know all the little things that are not perfect, and it still works. Wonderful design. :)
After Christmas I can get back to the blonde wheel above (for me). Yesterday a local wood shop graciously did a few nice straight holes for me on their drill press. For free. I had carefully marked the center on mine and he missed my mark slightly. I'm sure it will work fine. When I see it, it will be a reminder of their generosity. Kind of like the old custom of supposedly putting an error in every quilt.
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