I came across this old camera that uses 35mm film but lacks an important piece on which the film is attached when loading it into the camera. I needed a 35mm spool and I was having trouble finding one or any in the local camera shops. So I decided to get my own spool by sacrificing a roll of film I bought not long ago to solve this problem. Here is what I did...

Step 1: Gather the Following Tools and Items...

You will need:

>1 roll of 35mm film (in a metal container)
>Scissors, pen, knife or a hard and flat metallic item
>Strong hands
>(optional) coffee

I only had to use scissors, but it took a while to do the job.

Step 2: Remove Film From Roll

You will need to remove the film from the roll, which means that it will be exposed and ruined unless you do it in a dark bag/darkroom or in the night. To do this simply pull the film 'til it stops. Use the scissors to cut the film from the roll because it may have a tape that sticks the film to the spool.

Step 3: Break Open the Roll Canister

Use the scissors or any other metallic object to break the roll canister apart. This is done by inserting the tool into the roll through the slit and forcing it apart. Work your way so as to open it as much as possible to remove the spool easily.

Step 4: Remove the Spool

If you were successful, you should see the spool with the tape and part of the cut film on it.
Remove the spool from the canister and cut out the tape and the film.
As you do this, look closely at the spool to check for any possible damage.

Step 5: Conclude + Epilogue

And there you go! Use the spool for other photography projects that involve 35mm and to replace equipment from older cameras (you might need to modify the spool in that case).
Remember to use tape to attach film onto the spool whenever you use it.

Good luck!!

And please REUSE or RECYCLE!! You will end up with heaps of film and metal bits in the end which can be used for other projects and recycled. Do your planet a favour.
I didn't want to throw away the metal container so I reuse it as a bookmark! (I use the film for this purpose as well) I only had to flatten it and smoothen the sharp bits to use it.