Abstract: A spool includes a plurality of plates having a body and a pair of legs defining a winding area for receiving rope, wire or similar material. Each plate further includes a slot in the body and a tab extending from the body. The tab of one plate is inserted through the slot of another plate to join the various plates. The plates can pivot about their tab and slot joints such that the spool may be collapsed by disengaging one of the tab and slot joints and pivoting the plates to a generally flat position. The tabs may be provided with features such as ears or tongues to prevent undesired separation of the plates.

Abstract: A spool for winding wire, rope or other materials includes a hub having a flange disposed on each end thereof. The flanges are deflected outwardly from the hub. Each flange contains a plurality of ribs that project from the interior surface of the flange so as to provide a constant width for winding the material on the hub.