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Yeah, and I think you nailed it with, "most people who want one are happy to build their own." That's what I did! Hahahaha Thanks Neil for your input. Maybe I'll just have to see if anyone ends up asking me about mine. Thanks all! Your wisdom is much appreciated!

Thank you! I think you're right, naming it a "Leach" wheel would probably get me in some sort of trouble. No, the layout doesn't have to be flipped to have the wheel spin the other direction. I can crank it counter or clockwise both with my left leg. I think the idea is that if you throw in a counter clockwise manner you'd probably want your right leg to be stable. Maybe less body stress? If you wanted it clockwise, you'd just want to build the wheel flipped like you said so your kick leg is your right leg. It would be interesting to make an all-metal treadle that you could unbolt to move through doors. Or at least if welded up make it less wide than any potential doorways. It sounds like you've been contemplating making one! Also thanks for your input, it is much appreciated.

Yes, you are correct! There are some halfway decent plans out there, and one of the grandson's names is Simon Leach that you are talking about. He is having an Amish craftsman make them and they are beautiful, and they are also $2500 just for the kit, plus crating and shipping charges. I think he is out of PA though. What I've found is that although hardwood is beautiful, it is not necessary to make a nice, beautiful, strong, and well-functioning wheel. I guess that is where I was thinking there may be a possible market. I think Neil might be right about those who want to use one will probably just build it themselves or buy a hardwood one. Thank you so much for your input! This is helping me think through much more!

Thank you for the concern! Sorry for the confusion, I listed this with the Leach name so folks would know the type of wheel I am talking about. I would not name it with their name. And I have modified their design to my own liking. Thanks for the input!

Hi folks, it's been awhile. I've still been throwing pots and being a potter. Recently I made a leach style treadle wheel and I love it. It was made with less expensive materials, pine instead of hardwood, and a couple other decisions I made that kept cost down. I'm thinking I might be able to make a Leach style Treadle Wheel for about $1000, unfinished. Maybe $1200 painted. Do the wise sages of this ceramics board have any idea if there would be any sort of market for this? Here's my thought. I've always wanted one of these wheels, and my buddy came across some abandoned homemade versions that were all piecemeal and rusted. But I salvaged them and learned how to build the wheel, and it works really well. I finally have my dream wheel, and I didn't have to spend $2500 on it. Maybe there would be more treadlers if the wheel was more affordable? I'd love advice if you are in a helpful and loving spirit. Thanks all!