In reality, a handle or grip can be added to each arm rod by simply cutting a wooden dowel to an appropriate length and securing it to the end of each rod with strong tape. That’s as simple as it gets and technically all that is required. The following steps are slightly more involved in an effort to ensure the handle’s sturdiness and improve the rods’ manipulation possibilities to some degree.

Notice, also, that a square dowel is used. This not only makes building the handle an easier task, but improves the grip of the completed arm rod. A 1/2 inch square basswood stick was used for the handle in this tutorial. Basswood, in a variety of shapes and forms, should be readily available at your local hobby shop.

Step 7-1
First cut the wooden dowel to an appropriate length. In this particular case, we cut the dowel at four inches.

Next, drill a small hole about 3/4 of an inch from the top and centered on the dowel. The drilled hole should be large enough for the wire rod to fit. Cut a groove parallel with the dowel from the hole to the top of the handle. Basswood can be easily cut and carved with an X-Acto™ knife. The groove will subsequently help keep the wire rod in line with the handle.