Dob base and bearing?

Hello all. I'm about to receive my first Newt and think I will build a dob mount for it. I think I can figure out the Alt bearings if someone can tell me where to get the ebony star and teflon. Or is ebony star nothing more than formica? Well, my main concern at first is going to be the base. I know it will be 2 sheets of wood with bearings in the middle but again, I'm not sure what or where to get the materials. And what is recommended to use as some type of center shaft for them? Bolt and nut? Please help if you can. Thanks in advance.

Nate

Ebony Star is a brand name Wilson Art formica. It refers to the pebble texture and black and white color scheme. It can be found at local home improvemnet centers or places that make counter tops.
Teflon is available in many places. They even sell it in plates for tractor trailer hitch pads. Makes it pretty cheap when bought that way.
A large bolt and nut with washers is all that is needed, but a sleeve of brass would be nice too. Check with our sponsors for these materials too, I know there are some that sell both materials.

Hello Nate,

There is a good article on dob bearing materials in the October 2003 Sky&Telescope issue.

I have tried various combinations of materials on dob mounts of various sizes. From personal experience, I think PFA (perfluoroalkoxy fluorocarbon) used with ebony star is excellent. The PFA is more expensive than regular teflon though. I like PFA especially for lightweight applications like on my lightweight 12" dob.

Good luck,
Daniel