Building a wooden garden hose reel with a crank handle is a satisfying woodworking project that combines functionality and aesthetics. Below are the steps to create your own wooden garden hose reel, from gathering materials to finishing touches:
Materials and Tools
Materials:
- Wooden Boards (Cedar or Pine are good options for outdoor use)
- Two pieces for the side panels (around 18″ x 24″)
- One piece for the base (18″ x 18″)
- Two pieces for the spools (about 10″ in diameter)
- Wooden dowels (for axle and crank handle)
- Screws and wood glue
- Outdoor wood finish or sealant (optional)
Tools:
- Saw (Table saw or Circular saw)
- Drill and bits
- Sandpaper
- Wood clamps
- Woodworking clamps
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Screwdriver
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Wooden Pieces
- Side Panels: Cut two rectangular pieces of wood (around 18″ x 24″). These will form the sides of the reel.
- Base: Cut a square piece of wood (18″ x 18″) to act as the base of the reel.
- Spools: Cut two round discs of wood (10″ in diameter) for the spool sections. These will hold the hose.
2. Drill Holes for the Axle
- On each side panel (18″ x 24″), mark and drill a hole in the center to accommodate the wooden dowel that will act as the axle.
- Drill the same size hole in the center of each spool disc to allow the axle to pass through.
3. Construct the Reel Base
- Attach the two side panels to the edges of the base using screws or wood glue. Ensure that they are perpendicular to the base.
- Use clamps to hold them in place while the glue dries, or use screws for a more permanent hold.
4. Assemble the Spool
- Insert the wooden dowel through the holes in both spools and then through the holes in the side panels. This dowel will be the central axle of the reel.
- Secure both spools onto the dowel, ensuring they are firmly attached but can still rotate freely.
5. Add the Crank Handle
- To create the crank handle, you’ll need another piece of wood. Cut a small handle, roughly 6-8 inches in length.
- Drill a hole in the side panel (on one side) that matches the diameter of the dowel. Insert the dowel through this hole, leaving enough length on one side to attach the crank handle.
- Attach the crank handle securely by either drilling a hole through the dowel or attaching a small metal washer and screw.
6. Attach the Hose Guide
- To help guide the hose as it is wound, add a simple wooden guide at the front. This can be a small wooden piece attached to the front edge of the side panels, angled slightly inward.
7. Finishing Touches
- Sand all the edges and surfaces of the reel to make it smooth and free from splinters.
- Apply an outdoor wood finish or sealant to protect the reel from the elements if you plan to leave it outdoors.
- Let the finish dry completely before using.
8. Test the Reel
- Once assembled and finished, test the reel by attaching your garden hose to the spool. Turn the crank handle to ensure the hose rolls up smoothly and the spool rotates properly.
Final Notes:
A wooden garden hose reel with a crank handle is both a functional and decorative addition to your garden. The crank handle makes it easy to wind up your hose neatly, while the sturdy wood construction ensures durability. You can customize the size and design of the reel based on your space and the length of your hose.
Looking for more woodworking ideas? Check out Teds Woodworking Course for detailed plans and instructions: Teds Woodworking Course.
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