Steampunk mechanical monocle

Step 5 The lens mechanism

OK, ideally the bunch of cogs we are going to create would control the position of the lens, using the knob. Obviously this doesn't work, but we can make it look real. Let's start!

First, take a piece of cardboard. I use a 200 g/m2 cardboard, light but resistant. Cut it in the shape that fits well with your structure, marking three-four points for later reference (see pics). Paint the card with a black marker, or any color you want, then set apart.

Now take one of the holey plates as base for your cogs work. Using the always-valid trial-and-error method, create a nice arrangement for the first layer of cogs. Try to set them in a working fashion, that is, with interlocking teeth. When you are satisfied, glue all. Then create a second layer, than a third, and so on, as you like.

After the glue is dry, place the mechanism on the cardboard, then both them on the structure, finding the best position. Finally, glue the metal on the paper and set aside. You may need to puncture the cardboard to host the pins, like I did.

The result should be similar to the first photo.