Articulated Arm Stand and Clamp - Adjustable Mount for Phones, Cameras, and Lights to Capture Your Creativity

I built this stand by experimenting with carbon fiber tubes and 3D-printed parts. My goal was to create a lightweight, portable mount that could hold cameras, phones, or lights for overhead shots, DIY projects, and flexible lighting angles. 

The clamp opens wide enough to attach to large surfaces or posts, and I also included a magnetic base so it can latch onto metal cabinets. 

It took a few iterations, but I’m happy with how it turned out—and I can quickly print replacements or modifications as needed. 

If you give it a try, I’d appreciate any feedback or suggestions!

 This document covers only the assembly of the two arms and the clamp for attaching them to a tabletop. The holders for additional accessories (phone, flashlight, etc.) can be found in the Plasticlamp project.

Materials Required:

• Carbon fiber tube: One 12mm diameter and one 8mm diameter ( or Aliexpress link).

I chose to use carbon fiber tubes to create a lightweight and durable system. I kept the length of the rods at the original 500mm so that they can be repurposed for other uses in case the phone mount is disassembled.

Note: Aluminum tubes can be used as well

Additionally, by using long rods, the opening of the clamping jaws can be adjusted to fit thicker surfaces.

• M3 screws and nuts: Screws with lengths of 18mm and 30mm.

• M6 hex head screw: 50-60mm in length, and one M6 nut.

• Self-adhesive anti-slip silicone furniture bumper pads (25mm diameter): Two pads (Aliexpress or Amazon link). The pads I used were originally 30mm in diameter and were trimmed to 25mm using a hole punch.

3D Printed Parts:

1. Lower Jaw 

2. Upper Jaw 

3. Push Pad 

4. M6 Screw Cap

5. M6 Hex Screw Knob

6. M3 Screw Knob

7. Collars (match pins and holes) 12mm/8mm

8. TPU or rigid Balls

9. Socket to 8mm rod

Tools: 

Set of reamers (only 12mm and 8mm needed)

Cordless drill, hex screwdrivers, box cutter

Printing Instructions:

• Filament: I used ASA/PETG filament with a 0.4mm nozzle and a 0.2mm layer height.

• TPU Balls: The balls mounted on the ends of the rods provide some protection if bumped against. The TPU filament I used is Polymaker 95A with 50-70% infill.

For those who prefer not to use TPU filament, I’ve added a “rigid” version of the protective balls that can be used instead.

12 Jan 2025 Note on New Addition: Magnetic Base 

I’ve added a magnetic base to enhance the versatility of the mount. This new part allows the arm to attach securely to magnetic surfaces, such as garage wall-mounted cabinets, providing users with a quick and sturdy mounting option.

The magnetic base is available as an optional component and can be easily integrated into the existing design. I found Neodymium Round Cup Magnets on Amazon, which have threads requiring 1/4-20 nuts. To clarify assembly and use, I’ve included a few pictures showing how the magnetic mounts attach to this base.

Edited 6 Feb 2025:

Adding Adjustable Friction Swivel Mount

The Adjustable Friction Swivel Mount makes it easy to move the 8mm carbon fiber tube while keeping it steady on a 12mm support tube. The Friction Ring lets you adjust it without needing to tighten or loosen screws, so you can reposition it quickly whenever you need.