Make a shoulder strap for your tripod

This idea was inspired by my Mother; I was lugging my tripod around Southend, and she asked why I didn't have some kind of handle for it. She thought I might somehow be able to attach a strap from a bag to it. So I came up with this. Thanks Mum :)

Step 1 What you will need

This is a very easy project. You will need:

• A tripod
• A shoulder strap from a bag, with sprung carabiner-type clips on the ends (I used the one from my laptop case)
• A couple of cable ties
• A couple of split rings (the kind you attach keys to). You can get these from key-cutting places and the like

Comments

[Ranie-K]

Nice instructable. Here's my version -I just used the straps and some tape. I messed up the"direction" of the straps. I positioned it so that the padded area was closest to the top, and that isn't very natural, since the tripod is top heavy (I let the heavy, top end hang furthest down). I also put a rubber band meant for hair around one of the legs, so I can gather the legs to prevent them from rattling too much when I carry it around.

[dmiller24]

Cheap replacement for a tripod bag. that requires no work at all. Simple, common folding chairs that come in a bag. Once a chair breaks (happens to the cheap ones at least), just save the bag.

Chair does not even have to be broke, if you do not use the bag for the chair...

[Toebak]

Great idea!!! i just made one myself with an old strap from a slr camera. Now i'm able to take my tripod with all the time!
Thanks!

[Zmathews]

very nice, i created my own version as well but i did get some very good ideas from u, thanks.

[TapeSmith]

Excellent, Sir! I've been tired of lugging my tripod around, taking up a free hand. And I'm a college student without the nescesary funds to go out and purchase an official tripod bag. This Instructable was very simple, cheap, and effective! Thanks for posting this!

[sjoobbani]

 I love this, I've always used the control bar and just rested it on my shoulder, but this is amazing.

[WhyIsThisOpen]

Nice. I did the same thing a few months ago (but i didn't use the ties). Now I don't know why tripods don't come with shoulder straps - they could market it as a bonus.

[theburn7]

i have early version of that same tripod, it is cool

[notveryreal]

I have the same tripod too. This is a great instructable, I think I'll try it..

[abiliran]

Very nice! Greatly appreciate your work. Hope you can come up with more neat ideas.

[debpix]

I like that you can leave the strap on while using the tripod. I have a bag for my tripod that has a strap, but invariably I can't find it when I'm ready to pack up. This solves that.

[eBu]

great quick fix! I've used an extra camera strap or a shoulder strap from a messenger or duffel bag too. Free hands for shooting and keep a pod handy when needed. What Southbend are you in?! I shoot around the one in northern Indiana.

[pikesley]

Heh, it's Southend, dude. Southend, Essex, UK: http://is.gd/15AL , http://is.gd/15AU

[eBu]

Ah seeing a photo Instructable and a town *close* to the name of mine was too much excitement at once. Tomorrow I'm adding this to my tripod either way.

[struckbyanarrow]

i have the same tripod awesome!!!!!!!!!

[rupamagic]

Great idea. My Manfroto came with a strap and I thought "Brilliant! Why don't ALL tripods come with one?" Great work-around, and it leaves hands free for on-the-move shots while hiking or walking around town. Very useful!

[p2y2r7o]

My manfrotto didn't come with a strap or handle! A friend of mine received a handle with his, too. I'm sad :( Oh well, guess I'll have to make one!

[stalkingcoco]

I made something similar, but mine was just a length of inch and half webbing with a loop that just fits over the pan tilt head and another loop at the other end. It works but doesn't look as nice.

[aliceownsj00]

We have a small one(goes about 2 1/2 feet), and my guy would love this. I normally have to carry it around in my purse for him.

[solo.card]

I have the same tripod! Mine came with a bag though... So no need to make a strap. But if I lose/break it, I'll be back

[benatkin815]

Awsome, i actually got an Velbon CX440 Simular to yours... im 100% going to do this! Handy for my explores!

[Pyrowuzzup]

ive been thinking about doing something like this. now i just need to get my slr fixed and i can go do a shoot with my tripod.

[GorillazMiko]

Nice job! Now I can bring my tripod anywhere, just need to fix the top part to hold a Flip Video camera. Nice job once again!