Make a wheelbarrow

By The Chairman (Brian Young)

See Also:

Wheelwright Apprenticeship
Plans

The Design

The wheelbarrow is a prime and ancient example of man's ingenuity, where simplicity creates a functional structure that stands the test of time and even the availability of more modern materials. At rest the barrow stands firmly on rough ground because of the triangle formed by the wheel and the two legs and the single wheel allows the barrow to travel down the narrowest track. In use it is an example of a second order lever, where the load, closer to the wheel than the handgrips creates a mechanical advantage for the lifter who lifts with his leg muscles, not his arms. The liability of the barrow to tip when lifted, is overcome by the operator whose straight arms are able to maintain its balance.

Why not use my Plans?

Test your skills now! Make this wheelbarrow without the drudgery of years of apprenticeship. The original plans were drawn to 1:12 scale. It can be made from any kind of wood, or even card if you have no woodworking tools. If you have no access to metal, then remember that many of the wheels were unshod. I have purposely omitted detailed instructions to test your ingenuity and skills

The wheelbarrow is a prime and ancient example of man's ingenuity, where simplicity creates a functional structure that stands the test of time and even the availability of more modern materials. At rest the barrow stands firmly on rough ground because of the triangle formed by the wheel and the two legs and the single wheel allows the barrow to travel down the narrowest track. In use it is an example of a second order lever, where the load, closer to the wheel than the handgrips creates a mechanical advantage for the lifter who lifts with his leg muscles, not his arms. The liability of the barrow to tip when lifted, is overcome by the operator whose straight arms are able to maintain its balance.

Apprenticeship Certificate

When you have finished the barrow, send us an e-mail with your name, age and address, and attach a photograph of your work. We will send you a certificate of Apprenticeship to the Guild of Model Wheelwrights. Bring your model and Certificate to one of our Exhibitions and talk to us about your next modelling project.

Completed barrows 1:12 scale

Layout of pieces before construction

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