Materials You’ll Need:

1. Recycled plastic spool (from thread, ribbon, or other sources)
2. Wooden dowel or stick
3. Craft knife or scissors
4. Sandpaper
5. Strong adhesive or glue
6. Small nails or screws (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Plastic Spool:

Begin by selecting a recycled plastic spool that’s in good condition. The spool should have a hole in its center, which will be used to attach the crank handle.

Step 2: Cut and Shape the Wooden Dowel:

1. Measure and cut a wooden dowel or stick to the desired length for the crank handle. The length will depend on your preference and the size of the spool.
2. Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges or surfaces on the wooden dowel.

Step 3: Attach the Crank Handle:

1. Insert one end of the wooden dowel into the hole at the centre of the plastic spool. The dowel should fit snugly in the hole.
2. Use strong adhesive or glue to secure the wooden dowel in place inside the hole. Apply the adhesive around the joint where the dowel meets the spool. Allow the adhesive to dry and set according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 4: Reinforce the Connection (Optional):

For added stability, you can reinforce the connection between the wooden dowel and the plastic spool. This can be done by using small nails or screws to secure the dowel to the spool. Carefully drill pilot holes and then attach the nails or screws.

Step 5: Test the Hand-Crank Mechanism:

Hold the plastic spool by the crank handle and turn it clockwise or counterclockwise. As you turn the crank, the spool should rotate smoothly, simulating the motion you’d like to achieve in your project.

Step 6: Integrate the Mechanism into Your Project:

With your hand-crank mechanism complete, you can now integrate it into your project that requires manual motion. This could be a music box, a kinetic sculpture, or any other creative endeavour where the turning motion of the crank is needed.

By following these steps, you can make a basic hand-crank mechanism using a recycled plastic spool and a wooden dowel. This mechanism allows us to convert manual motion into rotational movement, which can be a fascinating element in our crafting projects. Keep in mind that the size and strength of your mechanism will depend on the requirements of your project, so please feel free to adapt the materials and steps as needed to suit your specific needs. I followed them and it’s just advice to do so.