Cheapskate Life - Modifying roll film holders/backs

OP
OP

fdonadio

Member
Joined
Jan 15, 2015
Messages
2,087
Location
Berlin, DE
Format
Multi Format
My previous approach to this project was modifying a Kodak No. 1A Autographic (uses 116 film), but looking at its construction, I decided not to follow this path. I felt film flatness would be an issue with this particular camera.

The other option was a postcard (3A or 122) camera, but I didn't look seriously into it, because of the impression I got from the 1A. This Ansco looks better built than the Kodaks, though. Maybe I should go back to this idea...
 

ivan35mm

Member
Joined
Mar 25, 2025
Messages
37
Location
Spain
Format
Analog
I must confess I don't know much about 3D printing. I have a good friend that knows a lot about it, but lives a little too far. I am also afraid of falling into another rabbit hole if I get in to 3D printing.

It’s much easier than you would think… and if camera modifications is something that interests you, i’m afraid it is gonna be inevitable haha. it’s nothing more than a tool on your work bench, except that it allows you to see & measure things that aren’t quite in the real world, just yet

If you need any help, send me a message. I’ll take a stab at whatever you wanna try and render in 3D CAD.


Sure there are, but printing services are expensive, to the point it makes no sense.

Personally, I don’t agree with this. Sites like Xometry EU (since you are based in Europe, like myself) and a few others, make rapid prototyping so cheap and instantly accessible. Compared to traditional “tooling” (think CNC machining) AKA subtractive manufacturing, 3D printing AKA additive manufacturing is significantly cheaper. There are also 5+ different 3D printing technologies & 100+ different materials to choose from. This allows you to choose whatever you want. From super cheaper 3D parts to incredibly expensive. I often settle for SLS printed Nylon 12 parts. Cheap enough that if I screwed up some dimensions somewhere, I can print it again without breaking the bank. Also cheap enough that if I get it right the first time, all the better.
 
Last edited:

Donald Qualls

Subscriber
Joined
Jan 19, 2005
Messages
12,232
Location
North Carolina
Format
Multi Format
I've seen a 6x12 made from opposite ends of two Moskva 5 bodies -- one the supply, the other the takeup/advance. It was for a pinhole, though, for film flatness mattered less...
 
Cookies are required to use this site. You must accept them to continue using the site. Learn more…