Camera Stabilizer Rig for Under $5

An easy and inexpensive way to steady handheld shooting is the two-handed stabilizer rig, much like the retail Figrig. Here's how to make one.
Stuff I use: www.amazon.com...
PARTS LIST
4x 1/2" PVC pipe 6" in length
4x 1/2" PVC pipe 4" in length
1x 1/2" PVC pipe 3 3/4" in length
1x 1/2" PVC pipe 1 1/2" in length
5x 1/2" PVC T-joints
4x 1/2" PVC 90 degree elbow joints
1x 1/2" PVC plug
1x 1/4"-20 machine screw 2 1/2" in length
2x 1/4" nuts
1x spring
Optional camera quick release system
eBay: rover.ebay.com/...
Amazon: www.amazon.com...
PVC ratcheting cutters
Harbor Freight Tools: www.harborfreig...
eBay: rover.ebay.com/...
Amazon: www.amazon.com/...
Sports grip tape
Amazon: www.amazon.com...
eBay: rover.ebay.com/...
PayPal donation link: www.paypal.me/...
Blog: www.thefrugalfi...
Facebook Group: / thefrugalfilmmaker
Twitter Feed: / frugalfilmmaker

[@ravievalaitham1084]

I built this diy rig a few years ago. cheapest & superb steady video. Unbelievable performance for price it costs to build. Still going strong. Thanks for sharing such a great project.

[@rollingvee]

I built one these yesterday. It was so easy, and the results were great. Today I filmed at a very public event; and as I made my way from one street corner to another shooting a float in a parade, I noticed a lot of people looking at this rig, and several gave me a thumbs up. One couple actually asked about it as I was walking back to my car, and I told them about your website and your ingenious gadgets. So, thank you for your videos and your expertise. You made me look really smart today!

[@GadgetAddict]

When I first saw another video of yours and you said to buy the proper pvc cutter, I was thinking "meh I'll just use my hacksaw". But fortunately when I got to the hardware store I decided to just buy the cutter and omg lol. I got all my pipes cut in minutes compared to how much time and effort it would have taken with a hacksaw. It's so worth the $5.

[@invigilator1]

2 modifications that I made. 1. I put a t bracket on the bottom back so the whole thing sits level. 2. I had to move the mout bracket back to hake sure the viewer panel had full range of motion. Awesome rig! Thanks for the 'how to'

[@TheMeejahChannel]

Thanks for this. Not just the rig, but for the whole concept of constructing affordable film kit from something as easily put together as pvc piping. If you can build a Lego model, then you can make this rig. You've inspired me to rack my brains and see if I can come up with some novel ideas myself. Keep up the good work.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Thanks! I'm glad it could help.

[@GameChronicles406]

@The Meejah Channel any ideas yet ?

[@romeozain432]

not sure if you guys gives a damn but if you guys are bored like me during the covid times then you can watch pretty much all the new series on instaflixxer. Been streaming with my girlfriend during the lockdown xD

[@rowancade9095]

@Romeo Zain Yup, I've been using instaflixxer for since december myself =)

[@danomojo1]

I watch from China.. Thanks so much.. I got roped into teaching a Film Making Class.. you make me look like a pro just by following these easy to use guides.

[@khairuzzadalhikmah5511]

the starting gets me alot ahaha "welcome to the frugal film maker where you know youre broke before you start filming"

[@worldunited4903]

it's a preventative measure from hawking help from others later down the road lol

[@Hospedaje3721]

I had to say this.. Im from Puerto Rico and I didnt knew what I was gonna do without a real budget to buy this stuff and I gotta say: love your creativity!! I did two of your proyects and I most say they work perfectly. Thats for the humility of sharing your ideas keep it up, you have a follower here.

[@Realunitedstates]

thefrugalfilmmaker Just built one of these and it works super great! Going to be a great addition to our equipment for shooting in the field! Thanks! Paul

[@kshitijactor]

RealUnitedStatesVlog where did u find the plug?? I can't find one in India

[@brackman71]

I made one of these rigs and I'm customizing it. I used a sheet of craft foam about 1/8" thick, traced out a circle the same diameter as the open end of an elbow joint, then cut it out with a sharp craft knife. I then took a manual one-hole paper punch and punched out the center of the foam to allow the 1/4 20 camera mounting screw to go through it. These craft foam discs compress nicely and prevent accidental camera rotation. I made half a dozen to keep in my camera bag.

[@chandrashekarnagaraja4513]

With warp stabiliser it's the best cheapo kit.. Thanks god I found this video..

[@Robertgarygutierrez]

i did the exact measures he did. The ONLY thing i changed, and what saved me some work was i changed the platform. Instead i attached a quick connect. Made my life so much easier.

[@andreibazi]

If someone wants to start a small business, start selling US standard nuts and bolts on a website like Ebay, with European shipping :D. I don't know about all EU countries, but in mine finding 1/4" 20 screws is simply impossible, rendering most diy camera builds rather difficult to do. Oh, and same thing about PVC pipe - no such thing here. Plenty of PPR an other plastic piping (unfortunately not suitable for such builds), but no PVC with smooth fitting connectors and joints like you US citizens have. Anyway, great simple build :)

[@KingFofo666]

+Andrei Bazi same problem here in germany. Been at all the hardware stores in my town and searched ebay for hours but NOTHING. You would think that a bit of plastic piping is not so hard to come by.

[@edwaggonersr.7446]

I built one of theses this afternoon. Two minor changes: I used a tee at the rear and a cap under the camera (my hardware store was out of plugs). Like yours I installed two tees for future lights or whatever. After trying it out I was amazed at the difference. Thanks for the great videos. Ed Senor from Oregon

[@sadmananik4832]

Watching in 2018😍

[@2ifyouonlyknew]

this guys a genius

[@ninobrn00]

Just thought I would share. I made this rig the same way you did, but didn't like how difficult it was to thread the screw. I bought a 1/4-20 threaded rod and a wing nut. I cut it to 2.75" and super glued the wing nut at the bottom. Works great!!

[@FrancisRobert]

I just made one for myself and it works really great! Thanks for this! :-)

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Francis Robert Yes! Glad it's working well for you.

[@5DiceProductions000]

this is a great rig. I made it with my friend. We had to take 3 trips to home depot because they make PVC THAT YOU CAN"T CONNECT!! Although I use it a lot and the only thing I would recommend would be to tightly strap the spring around the nuts.It's more sturdier and doesn't shake as much. Great build!

[@reclaimedworx2867]

you should be selling these, hehe. great looking dyi!

[@anassaccente1322]

maybe selling them just in Colorado! hahaha

[@hasanhalai123]

I created this and all I need to say is. BRILLIANT!! Great for no budgeter and performs amazingly! But just a note for DSLR users, for my 600d all I had to do was increase the overall size of the rig by a few inches. for eg: from 6 inch pieces to 10 inch! Worked perfectly! :)

[@AndrewPierce]

I think I found my next project.

[@RSpudieD]

me too!

[@frugalfilmmaker]

You are correct. It helps reduce shake on hand-held shots.

[@reubendunn1]

Can you use this for a Canon Rebel camera?

[@nicolehaverton9922]

I would use a professional rig for any canon You can get the steadicam or glidecam on sale on photolg.com/cameragear

[@vercingetorix444]

Yes it works for Rebels. I have several friends who use it on a T3i and a T5i and I'm about to build it for my T2i tomorrow! I'm not really convinced that pro rigs are that much better until I'm actually making enough to cover equipment costs from films XD

[@gkeeper555]

***** so now its one month later... did this rig work alright for the canon rebels??

[@foppitywoppity]

Be careful about camera weight. The PVC of that diameter can only hold so much unless the pieces are glued together. A Canon body with a smaller lens should be okay (in my opinion). Also, for larger DSLR lenses a platform should be under the lens for stability. Remember that this stabilizer is designed for a smaller camcorder.

[@GevOMotive]

if you use tape and tape it together you could use any weight camera on it. The only problem is the camera turning on the base, it would be great to mount a quick release mount on this.,

[@SuperCoupe300]

Just made mine in 30 minutes. I had a bunch of pvc pipes and connectors laying around mybackyard, so this was almost a free build for me..... Almost. Paid $1.75 for the bolt, nuts and spring at a local nut and bolt shop. Thank you so much for this video. t-minus 12 hours till I depart to Mammoth Mountain for a weekend of snowboarding! Can't wait to get some great shots.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Excellent! Please let me know how it worked for you.

[@Averageca]

3:43 LMAO :D :D

[@cregan55]

I like this project and just bought the materials for one,minus the compression spring,which I couldn't find in several hardware stores where I live ,ended up buying some on ebay.We really get hosed for pvc pipe and fittings here up north,cost me about $25 for mine.Your design is one of the best on you tube,IMO,like that it doesnt use a gimbal.

[@PelpaTime]

I'M in Jamaica i made one thanks [cost $700 ]

[@frugalfilmmaker]

+PelpaTime Hopefully that's not in American dollars.

[@PelpaTime]

no jamaican dollars lol. is adout the some as $5 american dollars

[@NashaineJohnson]

+PelpaTime That't about 7 USD

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Whew!

[@MisterWestbam]

I build the exact same thing, but with copper pipes and brass corners, and than I soldered it all together, no need to do it watertight hehe.. The result is it is way stronger and feels more robust and now it can carry my EOS60D. 3 corners, 5 T-joints, and some pipe I used a wall crane holder to mount my quick-release on.I also add some extra pipe on top for the handle, hold together with two heat-pipe holders. Cost around € 25 and is 100% inspired on this video, awesome work, many thanks!!

[@jasonhernandez1560]

Is it inflation I spent $15

[@lucasscott8516]

Only a little is inflation (maybe $1-3 at most) - most is probably your location

[@angusred4305]

I just got back from the hardware store with the materials list. It took me less than 30 minutes to cut the PVC and assemble the mount while following the directions on your video. I can't wait to get out and use it tomorrow. I think I'll go with the hockey tape idea as it sort of pops being all white. Thank you and keep the videos coming.

[@BeeBeefy]

SHIT. I didnt see if this will fit DSLRs or not. I cut all my pipes already!

[@frugalfilmmaker]

+Horng Jian Bee It should still work. The length of the pipe was determined by the hand grips, not camera size.

[@hirzijri5352]

+thefrugalfilmmaker i think that is not 1/4"-20 machine screw 2 1/2" in lengt, i think that must to longer then your's .

[@MM-eu8ri]

+hirzi fatur I just made this and it definitely seems like a longer piece is needed

[@randybarrett1675]

Which DSLR do you have?

[@dominicsobieralski1130]

My DSLR fits in it just fine

[@donatoserame8751]

A real pro presentation, well paced and to the point. I've no problem using this for a DLSR like a Canon or another. Spending 3000 for a harness makes no sense if a $10 - $20 rig handles 75% of your chores. Mind you I'm talking about a $2500 Canon MKII. I'll send you a pic when I'm done.

[@BradleyHarrisonbmxer]

Who's watching in 2016

[@digitaldevotionpublication3039]

2017

[@Keithphotorama]

Last week my Canon Vixia m500 arrived and it's so small but easily lots of camera shakes. Yesterday I built the PVC Stabilizer which was very easy to build, it really works, and I am very happy with it. Thanks for sharing this

[@jakeb6784]

Under 5 $ my ass

[@randybarrett1675]

Owen eldridge granted it's not $5 but I put together the parts list on Home Depot and it came to just a little under $10

[@amfest]

you have to look at posting date . . . as time goes on prices can go up .. and they have sadly :/

[@randybarrett1675]

I got all the parts from Home Depot (I later went and bought a little more to add) and all of it still is under $10 which is a a steal compared to what you'd get if you try to buy something similar

[@1filmes672]

by using crosses and "T" connectors you can expand this a LOT! i adapted the boom connector to hold my smartphone while i operate a gopro, i can shoot witha camcorder AND a gopro simultaneously. INCREDIBLE rig.

[@komododroneflyer7613]

Copied and works amazing . Had copper laying around from a project (odds and ends ) , worked good . Painted with some foam pipe insulation for hand grips . Presto , you are a genius sir . Many thanks

[@MadChemistMusik]

Just finished making this rig and it turned out really nice. Works well and when you put hockey tape and bike grips on it, the finish almost looks and feels bought. HEADS UP if you plan on using a handy cam with this, like my self you might want to experiment with 4 1/2 inch pvc pipes in replace of the 4 inch ones due to the ability to fully grip the handle that is on the side of the flip screen on your handy cam. Other than that this is really nice and cheap for what it does and looks like

[@DoomieGruntVentures]

I built this myself after seeing it years ago. Although things are much more expensive thanks to market inflation, this is still a steal compared to $100 stabilizers. Recently, I've considered modifying mine to convert it into a shoulder mounted rig.

[@Jadty]

This is seriously one of the best DIY accesories videos I've seen. A lot of bang for your buck with this rig. Thank you very much, this helps a lot for any aspiring amateur filmmakers.

[@icin4d]

I built this rig for my XA10 and love it. I was planning on building your table dolly rig, but came up with an alternative. Take 3 rollerblade wheels, mount them in PVC plugs or caps, and insert them each into an end of a 90 degree PVC corner. Then mount those into the bottom Ts in this rig (replace the back/bottom 90 with a T). Now you have a 3 wheeled stabilizer/table dolly rig. Thanks for all the ideas you share.

[@kelehe4]

Aahhh... a lavalier boom, cool. FYI - I made the Stabilzer rig this morning and used it at the parade today. I had quite a few people ask me about it and taking pictures. I referred them to your site/KZbin channel. Thanks for the great tips.

[@PNTTVReacts]

So many people have stolen your design claiming it to be theirs and haven't even modified it, I try to stear people to your videos when I see that though! I started with this and have modified it to the almost current design. Thanks for everything!

[@frugalfilmmaker]

+The PNT Tv Network You bet! And thank YOU.

[@kidwilson33]

I made one of these today for my T3i with battery grip and used 7" pieces also. Worked like a charm. Very easy to build and cost me 10 dollars at Lowes.

[@StoryDrivenHobbies]

Thank you. Just made mine. Cost me $8.07 home depot (lowes same parts would have cost me $25.00). The hardest thing to find was the spring so I took the metal piece in the spiral notebook.

[@Photonenshizzl]

if you dont use the spring, the screw will be in a fixed position and then you'd have to turn the camera...instead the spring lets you just screw the spring, alot easier. just thought i'd share, i think you all get this :D anyway, thanks for the tutorial thefrugalfilmmaker ! its just so simple and cheap, i like it a lot and now im off to the store :D

[@TheOlavarria49]

This little project needs to be rewarded with a prize. Awesome!

[@Shpazz]

I've seen many DIY camera stabiliter ideas around here, but this one seems to be easier and more efficient than other. I will try this one. Thank You

[@albsavoia]

I built one for a Canon DSLR using the dimension in the video and it worked - it worked GREAT!

[@UFOBobTV]

An excellent DIY video. Simple to make, step-by-step instructions, cost effective, and sample videos of the rig in action. I am subscribing.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

No. I think it tops out at 1 1/4" PVC. But you can buy larger cutters for larger diameter PVC.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Yes, any DSLR should work with this, though it may become front heavy depending on the lens you choose.

[@TDandC]

I just found a 2 hook ladder storgage hook at Home Depot for $7. It had foam on the hooks to use as handles. and the holes for mouning it were the right size for 1/4-20 bolts to mount my Camera with and works as good as this. No Cutting no measuring just add the bolt mount the camera and Shoot. It's Awesome!!!!

[@SangeetUnpluggedFilms]

And I made it, just because of you only. Thank you so much. My camera is much stable now. I don't need a glue to fix these pipes, they are that strong.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Yep. Any DSLR or camcorder should fit fine. Even if your camera is too big, longer PVC lengths can be made easily and cheaply.

[@sonet1231]

You are defiantly bad ass,,, I worked for many years at Pro Camera Repair in NYC. This mount made of simple materials is genius. My shop in the earlier 70s created some of the world 1st under water housings, the first helmet camera mount, as well as 1st ski mount hang glider mount on and on… of course I'm speaking of tye one and only Marty Forsher’s Pro Camera Repair shot 37 west 47th st. Skills like yours would have been greatly appreciated. Keep creating….

[@sungodarts]

Big thanks for designing this, it took like 10 minutes to make. I didn't have a cutter or a drill and had to use a hack-saw and an old screwdriver to make the holes, it works a treat though and on that low low budget too. And someone was asking about DSLR: it holds my Sony SLT just fine :-)

[@tiufang]

Same problem here. I just used 20mm joints and 18mm gray color pvc pipe, which will probably found in a different part of the store. 18mm pipe will attach to 20mm joint, but not very tightly, so you'll still have to use lots of glue.

[@redroosterguitars]

Hey you know I just followed your instructions and made this for my iphone and took your idea from the trolly with the skate wheels and mounted them on 3 elbows and now I have a perfect combo of a rolling trollly as well as a steady cam. Thanks for the idea for this .. great ideas ..I love this stuff very cool! I am going to use this rig to make a commercial for my website and facebook and youtube.

[@njoubert]

I just built one for my gopro (I'll post to reddit's gopro subreddit in just a moment) and I had to move the gopro's position from where he has the camera to putting it sticking right out front. It's a small change and it still works fine, now I've got my video light and external mic with my gopro just fine.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Two reasons: 1) so the rig wouldn't teeter on the camera screw poking out of the bottom, and 2) so you could set the rig on the ground and get a decent "up angle" wide shot.

[@guodnotserp5592]

Seeing you film with this stabilizer and a consumer video cam is super inspiring! Thanks so much! This video motivated me to make one of my first stabilizers.

[@charlesdrake9418]

I built mine just as you described. Then I found out it makes a great copy stand too. Just turn the camera around in it's holder and lay the back part of the stabilizer flat and voila'. It's great if you have lots of stuff to copy.

[@kontube00]

everytime i click on yr channel, i will sitting in front of my iMac more than a hour to watch some and some . . . some more or yr video clips. they're awesome. thankyou very much.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

You could add a small quick release plate (like the one found on the Sima Quickonnect) to the bottom, running a long screw to the camera or a quick release base.

[@gr8n8skater]

I just built one and it's a MUCH better alternative than the camera handles on the market these days. I'm going to use it to film skateboarding and just some random videos here and there, but it'll certainly make it look professional. This was such a fun and easy build, thank you Scott!!

[@dandylionphotography]

Thank you, i eventually found one. But i couldn't find the pvc plug at my hardware store so intead i drilled a hole in a rubber plug shaped like a cone (i think it was like a rubber foot from furniture to protect the floor) and because it is conical it compresses when you screw the camera in and works really well!!

[@frugalfilmmaker]

I just had one laying around. Others have found springs used in weed cutters, or from battery holders.

[@lancethrustworthy]

Bravo, well done! You don't go too fast, the video is fine and the audio is well within basic parameters. Good work.

[@PrinceEzra.]

I definitely made one 10 years ago because of this video, decorated it and all. Wish I could find it.

[@erterrill]

Man that is brilliant and waaay better than spending $125.00 to $400.00 on a setup. Thanks for the video. Going to make one for my GoPro!!

[@sonkeichimmu]

Just built my stabilizer. I love it for my T3i. I used colored tennis grip for added flare.

[@heyricksander]

Hi There, good tutorial. I built this rig and added some extras including PVC for the mic and some ball head adapters made to go on bike handle bars, as well as some feet pads. It was very useful, but I couldn't help wanting to put it up to my shoulder. I'm thinking of making a version of this with a shoulder extension arm.

[@jeffblackmusic]

Built one at work today, I used 3/4" PVC, upped all measurements by an inch (used a 3" screw) to accommodate my Nikon D3100 DSLR. Also covered the whole thing in padding that I found in the PVC section of Home Depot. For some dumb reason my Home Depot didn't carry springs, so I packed some styrofoam into the T-joint and that seems to be doing the trick. Cost me closer to $40 because Canada (and buying tools and paint) but that's life! Can't wait to take it for a spin!

[@frugalfilmmaker]

+Jeff Black Be sure to let me know how it works out for you!

[@Network_51]

I just built this stabilizer rig based on this tutorial and it was spot on... Thank you for the lesson... This opens up other great ideas...

[@Koolaids93]

Absolutely beautiful! Bravo Frugal Filmmaking sensei! I hereby award you +10 internets for your very helpful design.

[@bass3587]

Just finished mine today. Thanks a bunch. Didn't take much time at all. Now to go shoot some video. I have mines mated with my Pentax K5 DSLR.

[@Kodachrome40]

Your videos remind me of a magazine back in the 70’s called Super 8 Filmmaker. People would write in with projects on how to create effects and build gear for their film projects.

[@sldemby]

This was a really easy to build and solid design. I have in my opinion, improved upon the design slightly. Instead of using 90 degree elbow joints at the rear (bottom) with a t-fitting to keep the entire rig level and a cross fitting for the stage which makes leveling the sima quick connect much easier.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Yes. The spring is an optional feature that makes it easier to attach your camera.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

You're on the right track with the washer idea (or trim the screw threads). The hole in my XLR box is deeper that a standard tripod mount (oops!), which is why I didn't have a problem with this.

[@keatonpunch]

Awesome, i just put the whole thing together the other day and its been working great for my videos. However, i used a longer machine screw and put a wing nut on the bottom of it so that i don't need a slot screwdriver to put the camera on.

[@GustavoUrena]

Just finished mine. WAO thanks so much. I made a few changes so it could fit my 5d. Also I'm thinking of replacing the bottom elbow for a T join. I think it will be better in terms of leveling the hole thing down. Great tutorial. Ha and it cost me 30 dollars but keep in mind that I didn't have ANY material and I bought the material at home depot where you have to buy things in bundle like Costco.

[@frugalfilmmaker]

Yes and No. Would need a redesign to allow follow focus. Check the video responses for some ideas others have implemented.

[@billy252010]

I'm in Kansas City, Missouri and I built this. Works very well. Thank you!

[@amtrex1]

Great Design. Thanks for sharing it. With a large battery attached to my Sony Handycam, I needed to make the bottom and top horizontal PVC pipes 1" longer to accomodate the extra camera length. I changed the top 6" piece to 7" and the bottom 3-3/4" to 4-3/4".

[@V2EditingSolutions]

Dude, this is genius. Thank you so much for the simplicity of the construction and the clarity of the instruction. You're a good man.

[@parrot340]

This is FANTASTIC!!! I think it is even better than the Stabilizer 2. I even showed it to two of my friends. I built them one each as well. with all the extras like hand grips hockey tape, and light/mic holders. I am in the U.K. by the way so had to look for different piping, plugs etc. but works fine and you would never know the difference after the hockey tape. goes on :)

[@NickRangerMusic]

I got my spring at home depot. It came in a set of 9 springs. It was in the hardware section, actually right next to Machine screws!

[@kiyomiswan4871]

Ingeniuos...simple,lightweight,durable,flexable,portable,adaptable,customizable,corosion free [saltwater],inexpensive.Wow,best of all...no royalty? Thanks from all of us !!!

[@HFCBlackDeath]

Just made this for my T4i, works great, I added another screw setup to the back elbow and added a couple heavy washers to help with the front heaviness. :)

[@ps2u]

Well, from what I've done and seen it works very well. It greatly reduces the amount of camera shake when standing or walking. Depending on how smooth you run it works pretty well. You will still have some shake but no where near as bad as if you were holding it by itself. I have tried going up and down stairs and there was hardly any shake, you would almost think it was on a track. I have actually made a few for some friends and they seem to like them, so in the end YES it works great!

[@ryansutton5766]

Just built and tested this. Absolutely fantastic. Thank you!!

[@lunaticasai]

I just bought a Canon VIXIA HF R20 for an amazing $50.00 and what more do I want? A cheap rig, so I searched and found your channel, subscribed, liked, learned and will share. I wont be using my phone for my KZbin videos anymore thanks. I will add a link to your channel on my videos everytime I show off anything I learned here, thanks a bunch I really needed to come here. Godspeed

[@3hunEntertainment]

This works great!!! I built it quick and easy thank you for this tutorial!!! I film music video's and concerts so I did add one thing to this. I drilled a hole in the top and attached my LED light to it. It works great! Thank you once again!

[@Ewwtuba]

Excellent! Love these frugal projects, because they're still QUALITY.

[@ScrubPuppyOpinion]

It really doesn't require much. When I made mine, I did have to buy the PVC cutters, which raised the price considerably.

[@1filmes672]

if the screw is the correct length, the camera will fit snugly and friction will keep it from sliding. if you want, you can get a piece of an inner tubing (from your bikeshop) and use that as a base for camera. will give grip and extra tension withgout damaging socket.

[@ScrubPuppyOpinion]

There's a feed and hardware store near my home. They have a good assortment of compression springs there. I looked at Home Depot and Lowes. but didn't have any luck at those two stores, other than PVC and fittings. I had to visit 3 stores to get everything I needed. The end cap for the camera stage was the hardest to find, but they had it at Lowes. Good Luck.

[@lulubu_]

thanks so much! for those with dslr's- it helped to make the vertical lengths 7" just for a little more room. I also added an accessory mount on the upper handle for a mic so it would be centered. thanks again for the video, Scott!