Introduction: CAMCOIN DRIVER - Make a Tripod Mount Tool Using a Coin

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About: Average Can Be Extraordinary

If you use cameras and tripods then you'll know how often you have to change mounts and cameras on your tripod. We all seem to grab a coin to do the job so I thought, why not make a more permanent solution. The CAMCOIN DRIVER was born!

Here is a video of how I made it:

Materials Used:

  • 10p Coin
  • Scrap Walnut
  • 5min Epoxy
  • Wood Glue
  • Spray Lacquer

Tools Used:

  • Router
  • Chisel
  • Bandsaw
  • Belt Sander
  • Clamp
  • Laser Engraver (Optional)

Step 1: Route and Cut Shape

Tracing round the coin onto the walnut gave me a guide to route to. I used a profile bit in the router set to half the thickness of the coin deep. I could then remove the material inside the guide lines.

A much better solution would be to use a forstner bit in a drill but I didn't have one that was the correct size.

I cleaned up the pocket with a chisel and then marked a half way line and rough shape to cut on the bandsaw.

I could then trace the first half onto the other side and cut it out too.

Step 2: Glue Up

The shape doesn't really matter at this point so I glued the 2 halves together with wood glue and added a clamp.

Covering the exposed section of the coin with painters tape will make cleaning up the epoxy easier later. To secure the coin in place I used some 5 minute epoxy. The 2 equal parts get mixed thoroughly and then a small amount is added to the coin before fitting it into the slot.

Step 3: Shaping & Engraving

Once the epoxy was set and the glue was dry I removed the painters tape and got to shaping.

The belt sander makes quick work of this step. I rounded the back edge of the walnut and added a slight taper to the thickness of the piece. I like how it narrows the closer it gets the coin.

I wanted to make the CAMCOIN DRIVER stand out more so using a cheap laser engraver I etched the logo onto the side.

To finish the piece I used 3 coats of gloss spray lacquer, sanding between each coat.

Step 4: Done!

Having a dedicated tool to change mounts and cameras for my tripods is great! I think I may add a keyring to the CAMCOIN DRIVER or maybe a magnet. What do you think would be the best way to store and carry around the CAMCOIN DRIVER? let me know in the comments!

I really hope you liked this project :)