Spool project

Ron Shaffer · Mon Sep 01, 2008 1:18 pm

...anyone ever seen large wooden spools used to hang gourds?

I snagged a large wooden spool from work - one that was about to be discarded - because I thought it might make a handy gourd rack.

The spool is 27.5 inches in diameter, weighs 32 lbs, and has a 2 inch hole running through the middle.

I was thinking of a rope/pulley system, but a winch is just as likely.

Just looking for ideas, thanks!

Guest · Mon Sep 01, 2008 2:16 pm

It should work fine but there are a few problem areas

1) If the wood is not treated, it may rot quickly, and normally a person would like to see it last several years. Painting it will help some

2) Wind resistance will be fairly high, requiring a strong pole.

3) The weight is a bit high, again requiring a strong pole

4) Appearance may not be ideal, especially in a subdivision where home owners associations would object

I do not want to discourage you however, as the design should make it easy to attach gourds. Would you put some arms on it for hanging gourds? EMT tubing arms would attach easily. Good luck if you try it. I would recommend a winch system if you build it. Let us know what it looks like..

John King · Fri Sep 12, 2008 8:15 am

Eve think of useing a 7.5 ft sat dish I have one and next year maby 2 more. John

Ron Shaffer · Sat Sep 13, 2008 7:28 am

...Yes I have, John...just have to wait till Sis is ready to get rid of it. Have you used them? How many gourds were you able to attach? How do you support the whole assembly?

I'm in a rural area...so housing codes simply do not apply, bj.

Thanks for the responses.

John King · Sat Sep 13, 2008 7:46 am

Ron.
I presently have a 10 fote I usea last year with 24 gourds and could have added 8 more, Also have 2 more 7.5 footers that can be used with 16 when I learn to reduce the size of the pic's I will post them or if you don't mind will send them to you by E-mail. John