I realise I could just buy the footpedal, but the damn thing cost more than the Dremel did.  Besides, I'm a do-it-yourselfer.   Anyone know a cheap way to do it?

Chris,

My first thought is to use a rotary dimmer (the type for 120v light fixtures) wired to grounding outlet that you could connect your dremel to.  Use common sense and the proper housing, wire strain relief, wire nuts, etc.  

Let us know how it works, or what you decide to do.

Derek

Quote from: Chris GoodsonBesides, I'm a do-it-yourselfer.   Anyone know a cheap way to do it?

From Laurier's site :
http://members.shaw.ca/roma/twenty-seven.html
You want the top one (universal motor).
You're working with killing-power here, make certain you know how to wire AC properly :!::!:

-Eric

The bias circuits inside light dimmers and motor speed controllers are different so if you want to use a regular old 360W or 600W light dimmer, just add a 60W or 100W lightbulb aross the output as balast to ensure proper operation.

Light dimmers sure are cheap these days.

If you want really good control, try a Lutron Nova series lighting dimmer. expensive, but still less than the Dremel foot pedal I'll bet.

Take care,
-Peter

A few years back i bought a variac variable speed unit from Conrad electronics.It worked rather well on a single speed drill.
Costed something in the region of 20 dollars.
Greetings,Ed

The first thing that came to my mind was an old sewing machine foot controller?  Just splice the wires into the dremel cord.  You ort to be able to get one on ebay or at the local thrift store for almost nuthin.