"George E. Cawthon" wrote in message
...
Sounds like you are getting too complicated. Why have a bearing at all?
Many rollers are solid non-turning handles which just roll in the hand;
others just use a wood or marble roller and wood thru the center.
A steel rod through the center doesn't sound like a good idea, nor does a
ball bearing. Better would be a brass rod and much better would be wood.
If you must have a bearing, use nylon.

I'm no rolling pin expert, but simpler has to be better and I would stick
to all wood depending on what it was used for. I believe marble is
considered essential for some operations.

Most of the high end pins these days have bearings in them.
Case in point: http://www.creativecookware.com/rolling_pins.htm

That being said, I'm certainly not averse to making them without the
bearings. And because they are "high end" certainly doesn't mean they are
better!!!! I'm just not sure I have the time to make the pins, make the
handles, AND make the "keepers" so to speak (rivet looking pin to hold the
handle on) all before Christmas. I may have to get started now!
Cheers,
cc