Introduction: How to Make a Very Cheap Homemade Pop Filter
This is a very quick and easy way to make a homemade popfilter for recording vocals.
"A pop filter or pop shield is an anti-pop noise protection filter for microphones, typically used in a recording studio. It serves to reduce popping and hissing sounds in recorded speech and singing. It can also protect against the accumulation of saliva on the microphone element." -Wikipedia
Step 1: Gather Materials
- 1 pair Pantihose
- 2 spring clamps
- 1 wooden dowel (about 3 feet in length)
- 1 cardboard box
- Glue (I used wood glue)
- Scissors
Step 2: Cut Apart Cardboard
Here I used a utility knife to cut away the top part of the cardboard box. I used used a pencil and marked the bigger part of the box so I knew both pieces would line up before I cut them apart.
Step 3: Pantihose
Here you pull the panty hose over the inner cardboard ring. Then put a ring of glue around the outside. Slide the outer cardboard ring over the top of the inner. You also want to make sure that the pantihose are pulled tight before you glue it. Then let it set and have the glue dry.
Step 4: Rod.
Here you take the scissors and basically score the rod. Just move them in a circle. I cut the rod pretty much in half. Once the rod is scored, then just bend it over a corner.
Step 5: Add the Rod to Filter
Now you cut off the excess pantihose from the filter. Use the scissors to drill a small hole in the edge of the filter. Make sure you don't make the hole too big. You want the rod to barely squeeze into that hole. Once it's big enough push the rod a small way into the filter. You can even glue it if you want, but I didn't find it necessary.
Step 6: Put on Mic Stand and Rock Out.
Now all you need to do is attach the filter to your mic stand. Here you can use the clips to adjust the height at the distance. I've read 2 inches from the microphone is standard but it's something you'll have to play with on your own to get a good sound.
Enjoy.

Participated in the
Discover Green Science Fair for a Better Planet

Participated in the
Photojojo Photo Month
17 Comments
12 years ago on Introduction
Thank you! I used your idea of using a cardboard cylinder (oatmeal container) in building my own pop filter. I also used ideas from https://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Cheap-Microphone-Pop-Filter/ .
Thanks again!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
No problem. Hopefully it worked out well for you.
Keep on jamming!
6 years ago
Great! I'm going to make a similar one, though a bit smaller, for a desktop mic.
10 years ago on Introduction
That looks great! Thanks!
I did a version of this kind of pop filter with a set of embroidery hoops from a craft store (they come in different sizes). I fastened the hoops to a cheap mic clip so it could be positioned with a second mic stand. Your clamp method is clever!
12 years ago on Introduction
Nice! You could also use a coat hanger to attach it to the mic stand, and even make the ring, then bend a loop at the end of your coat hanger to go between the mic clip and mic stand. I think cheap trick did something like this for their first few recordings.
14 years ago on Introduction
thank you for posting this i have bin messing with pantyhose and mics for a while but, i never got a good pop filter
15 years ago on Introduction
Awesome setup! LOve the idea!! :) You are talented
15 years ago on Introduction
Thanks. The clamps are kind of ghetto but they allow you to adjust it really easily.
15 years ago on Introduction
i use the speaker covers from old school head phones, but yours looks a lot nicer, so good job!
15 years ago on Introduction
I'm sure that it works well, I've made some makeshift ones myself, although I currently use a machined metal one over my condensers.
15 years ago on Introduction
Is that mic a shure sm57?
Reply 15 years ago on Introduction
Good Call. Yes is it.
15 years ago on Introduction
Yeah the pantihose covers both sides. As for the sound it depends on your recording setup, how you want it to sound, etc.
15 years ago on Introduction
Nice! Do the pantyhose cover both sides of the cardboard ring? Does it matter, acoustically, if they do or don't?
btw If you can get hold of an old embroidery hoop, from a thrift store or somewheres, it might make for an even easier build...
15 years ago on Introduction
Thanks. My buddy was ripping on me for posting this online, glad to see I've already have two people who like it.
15 years ago on Introduction
Nicely done. I have a great microphone (too bad LinuxH4x0r!), and we need one of these. Great job! +1 vote.
15 years ago on Introduction
Nice! too bad I don't have a good mic