I got inspired by discussions of ropewalks here so built one from Meccano (nostalgia trip!). I did not realise how easy it is. Spinning head gear ratio is 9:1; tension is by gravity via a pulley on a fine thread, which allows the tail end to spin automatically.
My model is 1:120 scale so getting good thread is a problem - ropes at scale are 0.1mm to 0.2mm diameter so I'm using fly-tying thread and sewing cotton but both present problems. I've tried this machine using 0.07mm (14/0) feedstock and it works a treat - nice round and smooth ropes 0.16 mm dia. Trying it next with 18/0 which may get close to 0.1mm.
I could show the machine loaded with thread but there's no point as you wouldn't see it on the photos.
Fortunately at 1:120 I don't need long ropes as the maximum length will be my armspan.
My model is 1:120 scale so getting good thread is a problem - ropes at scale are 0.1mm to 0.2mm diameter so I'm using fly-tying thread and sewing cotton but both present problems. I've tried this machine using 0.07mm (14/0) feedstock and it works a treat - nice round and smooth ropes 0.16 mm dia. Trying it next with 18/0 which may get close to 0.1mm.
I could show the machine loaded with thread but there's no point as you wouldn't see it on the photos.
Fortunately at 1:120 I don't need long ropes as the maximum length will be my armspan.
