How to Make a Cardboard Dolly

You can build a dolly using spare cardboard.

A camera dolly is a type of flat platform on wheels that allows you to move a camera around as you film. If you're just getting started making films as a hobby, you may want to work with a dolly to try out new techniques. Instead of purchasing an expensive dolly from a film shop, consider making one yourself using cardboard. The project will give you the look of a dolly-filmed scene without the extra cost.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard box top
• 4 plastic wheels
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors
• Rope

Instructions

1. Find a cardboard box top, like the sort that comes with a printer paper box. Keep the top and discard the box.

2. Set the box on a table so the flat top of the box is facing you. Attach a plastic wheel to each corner with a hot glue gun. Plastic wheels can be purchased at most building supply stores. Let glue dry.

3. Cut a square from the center of one of the edges of the box top at least 1 inch from the edge. Flip the top over to rest on the wheels, with the side with the cut-out facing you.

4. Snake the end of a piece of rope through the cut-out square. Tie a thick knot at the end of the rope, so it won't pull back through the cut-out when you tug on it.

5. Place the dolly on the floor and place the camera on top of the dolly. Pull the rope to move the camera as needed.

References

• Jake Ludington; How to Make a Camera Dolly