The GorillaTape Gorillapod! (flexible Tripod Under $10)

EASY and QUICK instructions on how to build a flexible tripod that can support heavy cameras like DSLR's.

When you are finished, it will be just as strong as the $70 name brand Gorillapods, but will cost you less than $10... (Less than $4 if you already have the tape).

Step 1: Materials and Tools

All materials can be found at Home Depot, or any other local hardware store nearby.

Tools:

Pliers
Wire cutters
Bare Hands

Materials:

small roll of Gorilla Tape ($5) (free if you already have some, or borrow from a friend)
1/4" x 2" Hex bolt ($0.19)
strong electrical wire (3 feet) ($1.07 / ft) = $3.21

I don't know what the specific wire I used for this instructable is called, but it has 5 wires inside, wrapped in a yellow cover. If you can't find this, just look for insulated wire that will be strong enough to support your camera. I prefer thicker wire that has rubber insulation.

Step 2: Cut and Bend

Cut the wire evenly into 1 foot segments and bend the ends as in the photo.

Each U-bend is approx. 1.5" long.

Step 3: Tape

Rip off about 6 inches of the tape.
Rip into skinnier strips.
These will be used as primary attachment of the wire to the bolt.

Each time you apply tape, do it VERY TIGHTLY.
The GorillaTape can definitely handle it, and it will make your Gorillapod a lot stronger.

Tape the first leg to the bolt as in the photo.
Tape the second leg right next to the first one, and of course,
tape the third one down.

Your tripod should now look like the one in the 3rd photo.


Finally, wrap this section up like in the photo, making sure the bottom is tightly taped in place so that the bolt cannot slip downward.

Step 4: Take It to the Jungle

Now screw it up to your camera, and get out there!

The beauty of this design is how simple it is, how STRONG it is, how cheap it is, and how adaptable it can be.

Since YOU are the one building this GorillaTape Gorillapod, YOU have the power to choose the length of your legs, and even how many legs you want. If you feel like you should have an 8 legged pod, then build it that way!

Build it to suit your needs, and enjoy!

Feel free to leave comments and let me know how yours turned out...