This afternoon I made an instrument hanger from a piece of brass and some black rubber gasoline hose. I screwed it to the "adjustment ring". Then put a second coat of Tru-oil on the wood and this project is completed. I think it is a big improvement over that spindly metal thing and this will have a permanent home beside the fireplace behind the chair when not in use, in front of the cushion on the hearth when there is music to be played.
My baritone shown in the background will hang on it also. This has been a fun project, You woodworking uke players ought to try it.