A while ago I converted a 1934 folding camera into a USB web cam. I brought it with me to Maker Faire Austin 2008 and a lot of people seemed to like it. In fact, a lot of people wanted to know how I made one. I promised them I would do a how-to on the blog, and I always keep my promises, so let's get started.

The best part about this project is the availability of the cameras. I was able to pick up a USB web cam for $10 at a local bigbox store. The antique cameras I picked up on ebay for $1. Actually, I picked up (2) cameras for $1 each and the shipping was only $5. That was a great deal. You can easily pick one up for less than $10 online or a local antiques shop.

What you need:

• Antique folding camera - Available on ebay for $1 - $10
• USB web camera - Available for $10 - $20
• Heat-shrink tubing
• Rosin core solder

• Soldering Iron
• Glue Gun
• Arms of Assistance - Make you own
• Fume extractor - Make your own
• Miscellaneous hand tools - screw driver, needle-nose pliers

Step 1: Purchase the cameras

First you need the cameras. Scour the Internet, check local antique shops, or ask your friends. These types of cameras, both the antique camera and web cam, are readily available and they are very affordable.

Step 2: Remove the lens

Start by opening up the antique folding camera. There is usually a switch somewhere that slides over so you can load the film.