Made this tensioner for loading my reels.  Adjustable spring pressure to dial in the resistance, works for spinning and casting reels depending on which way you position it.  Also a reel unwinder to use on a drill press or electric drill. 

 

 

Looks good and should work!  I just make my wife hold it while I am spooling mine!  Haha

That will work.  I have a store bought one with a suction cup that I have used for years.

I made one exactly like yours a couple years ago. Works great for when no one is with me to hold a pencil

I made one much like yours. Instead of using wood I put mine in a vise to hold it.

Any chance you can post the components used? I’ve been looking at making my own. I’ve been using the Berkley line spooling station and it’s seen better days. 
 

Would be a great winter project!

Sure thing, thanks for asking.

 

I used a 4-12/" x 1/4" bolt, secured to the MDF frame so it doesn't spin and a wing nut w/ a jam nut on the tensioning end.  Otherwise it will slowly tighten up as you use it.

 

10 hours ago, Tucson said:

Sure thing, thanks for asking.

 

I used a 4-12/" x 1/4" bolt, secured to the MDF frame so it doesn't spin and a wing nut w/ a jam nut on the tensioning end.  Otherwise it will slowly tighten up as you use it.

 

That’s perfect! Thanks so much! I see a trip to the hardware store in my very near future

Here is one my mom and dad made for me 50 years ago.

 

 

Works well.. did the same thing couple years ago except just drilled a hole thru a work bench leg , threaded rod,springs, washers, nut , wing nut. 
Not a guy to pay money for some of these stations out there when U can make one for a couple dollars.