Originally Posted by
BobG
I've built most of my wheels in the past using a bike frame in a work stand or just hanging by ropes before I owned a work stand. Brake blocks or thumbnails are adequate to indicate side play. The only special tool I have is a dishing gauge to center the rear wheel. Even that can be achieved by eyeball. I've built several wheels in campgrounds for ACA tour group members on picnic tables and bikes hanging from tree limbs.
I roll my eyes when I hear the phrase "art of wheel building". Lacing a wheel is basket making 101 as long as you have the correct spoke length. Tensioning is a bit trickier but is not rocket science.
I agree. Just go slow and note wheel wobble up and down as well as side to side. It is more important to keep the wheel round. Once it is round and the spokes are getting tight then concentrate on the side to side problems as well as dishing on the rear. Front a little easier.