Crank Handle Part 1

Ever since I started this build, I've been looking for a crank handle on various websites like ebay, hoping to find a vintage cast iron or brass handle perhaps from an old meat grinder or Victrola. Although I did come across many, they were never quite right in terms of price, size, condition, etc.

Figuring the crank handle was a fairly prominent part of the "crank organ", I didn't want to just settle for slapping on a simple functional device, so, not finding a ready-made one to my liking, I decided to make my own.


First I picked out a block of hardwood from my scrap pile, choosing a piece that had grain running in favorable directions. I also put together a template in Photoshop to help me with the initial cutting of the block.

For the first pass, I cut out the template shape on the bandsaw, and filed off some of the rough edges and blade marks.

Next I used the router, drill press and bandsaw to get it into a rough shape:

Then came the sanding and filing and sanding and filing…

Until I wound up with this:

Next I spent some time with the Dremel tool, more sandpaper and files until I got this:

Using some of the thin scrap brass that I had, I cut a piece on the scroll saw and drilled it in a few spots:

I stained the wood and attached the brass accent/reinforcement strip and here's what I've got so far:

I haven't drilled the hole for the handle shaft yet, as I'm still deciding on the shaft diameter and how to get it attached to a handle I'm going to make from a wooden candlestick.  I also need to install a set screw in the crank base in order to secure it to its shaft.