Introduction: Make a Camera Table Dolly for Under $20
Nothing quite duplicates a camera on wheels. I've always wanted to build a dolly, but didn't want to hassle with track and a large platform (which doesn't fit into the back of my small car). This table dolly works well on any smooth surface. If you don't have a smooth surface, look around! You might be surprised what this little contraption will roll on.
Note that this dolly is for suitable for smaller cameras and camcorders (I use a Canon HFS100) rather than larger DSLRs or prosumer models. You may, however, be able to adapt this design for any size camera. It's all up to you!
See the final step for a link to some test footage.
Step 1: Parts List
- Cheap tripod
- 2 3" sections of 3/4" PVC pipe
- 7 1 1/2" sections of 3/4" PVC pipe
- 3 3/4" PVC tee joints
- 2 3/4" PVC elbow joints
- 3/4" PVC coupler
- 1/2" to 3/4" PVC bushing (adapter)
- 1 1/2" section of 1/2" PVC pipe
wheel assembly (x4)
- rollerblade wheel
- 2" length of 1/4" bolt
- 2 1/4" nuts
- 3/4" PVC plug
- 3/4" PVC coupler
Step 2: Tools Needed
- PVC ratcheting cutters
- A drill of some sort
- tape measure (a ruler will also work)
- 2 pairs of pliers
- flat head screwdriver
Step 3: Prepare Tripod Segment
Step 4: Build the Wheels
Step 5: Create Wheel Assemblies
Step 6: Make Main Hub
Step 7: Put It All Together
Step 8: The Video Version (with Test Footage)
If you like this project, come visit The Frugal Filmmaker for more!
15 Comments
10 years ago on Introduction
Hi!
Thank you very much for the tutorial, I finally did one motor.
Annex photo and video link
ppsailor
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AXgLSGh-4Q
11 years ago on Step 8
Awesome instructable....i woud like to know...could this model be made motorized...usin' a rc rig..?
Reply 11 years ago on Introduction
if u want to like strap it on an rc car, u would have many difficulties :P with sound, shakyness etc.. but if u want to put it on a track and just moterize the wheels, it could work!
Reply 11 years ago on Introduction
i ment like make the dolly motorized, do u think its possible..?
like attachin' some servos or brushless motors..?
Reply 10 years ago on Step 8
Yeah, you could just mount some motors on the wheels and use like a 9V battery or something.
12 years ago on Introduction
How much does the final product weigh?
12 years ago on Introduction
I went to the hardware store to get clamp lights and remembered this. Got all of the parts, except for the tripod head, and picked up a pair of rollerblades for 4 dollars at goodwill. P.s. look at the kids they're cheaper. One problem, I got caps instead of plugs, so I didn't use 4 couplers. :P works the same though.
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
I went back to the hardware store, and am fixing my mistake of using caps, by putting the plugs on.
12 years ago on Introduction
Can this be made taller so that its at person-height level?
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
The best way to make it taller, is to put the dolly on a higher platform. If you add length between the dolly and the camera mount, you will introduce all kinds of wobble to your shot.
12 years ago on Introduction
You need (4) 3/4couplers! You have the coupler in the non-wheel section so I only bought one.
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
You're absolutely right! I apologize for the mistake and have amended the "wheel assembly" section of the parts list.
12 years ago on Introduction
Great idea, and the shoots look pretty smooth too. I'm gunna build one for my DSLR, see how well it works.
12 years ago on Introduction
Great instructable...not sure I need one, but I would build one just for the fun of it!
12 years ago on Introduction
sweet! and you can turn the tripod into a flash/laptop holder.