Using a cheap-o desk lamp from IKEA and a custom Makerbot-printed bracket, Illinois maker Chris Krueger built a desktop arm stand for his webcam. Stands like this are great for getting in close to the action without having to deal with a tripod getting in your way.

The jig works great attached to a chair or table near my Makerbot for recording prints. Because of it’s range of motion I’m also planning on using it to record a stop motion introduction for my DIY videos. It can be pointed straight down and locks into place using the set screws in the joints of the arm. Once it’s screwed in tight it stays locked down really well. One of the big advantages to using a lamp with a clamp as opposed to a heavy base is that you’re able to clamp it to an unobtrusive part of your work area without disrupting anything.

[Thanks, Chris!]