Small Flexible Tripod

The goal of this project was to create a small flexible tripod from scrap materials capable of supporting an action camera or webcam. In the time since first publishing this instructable, I have found that inexpensive off-the-shelf tripods were far more practical. However, I think this design could be greatly improved by small modifications.

Step 1: Materials and Tools

Materials:

• (3) 14in. lengths of thick copper wire
• a 1/4 in. thick piece of wood at least 2 in. x 2 in.
• a 1/4 in. bolt
• (2) 1/4 in. nuts

Tools:

• drill
• saw
• sandpaper
• spray paint (black)

Time:

• an afternoon (including planning and painting)

Step 2: Make the Platform

Cut an equilateral triangle from a section of wood. Remember that equilateral triangles have three interior angles of 60 degrees. It is easiest to use a small protractor to measure out the angles, making sure the triangle's sides will be equal.

After this is done, use a pencil to mark lines roughly a half inch from each point, parallel to the opposite side. When these lines are cut, the triangle will become a hexagon without any sharp edges. Use sandpaper and a file to smooth out each side.

Drill three sets of two 1/16th in. holes in each tip of the platform with one 1/4 in. hole in the middle. These do not need to be measured precisely, so long as they are roughly equal.

After each hole is sanded, it is ready for paint. I decided to use a single coat of black spray paint, though a dark stain or a brighter color would look just as nice.

Step 3: Some Assembly Required

Each leg can be made by twisting two strands of thick copper wire together.

Insert each loose end of one leg into a corresponding set of holes in the wooden platform. Bend the tip of each leg and/or add some glue to secure it in place. In the center of the platform, secure a 1/4 in. bolt with a corresponding nut.

And we're done! The tripod is now a useable platform for small action cameras or webcams.