DIY Action Camera Mount Easy Build for Stunning Shots

Build your own DIY action camera mount for a fraction of the cost of commercial options and capture stunning, stable footage with ease. Using simple, affordable materials, this easy-to-follow guide helps you create a versatile mount perfect for bikes, helmets, or surfboards—ideal for adventurers and content creators alike.

Key Takeaways

• Choose durable materials: Use lightweight, sturdy components like PVC or aluminum for stability.
• Prioritize versatility: Design adjustable joints to capture unique angles effortlessly.
• Secure mounting is key: Double-check clamps and straps to prevent costly drops.
• Test before filming: Always do a trial run to ensure mount stability and alignment.
• Add rubber padding: Protect gear and reduce vibrations with simple cushioning solutions.
• Keep it portable: Opt for foldable or modular designs for easy transport and storage.

DIY Action Camera Mount Easy Build for Stunning Shots

Have you ever watched a jaw-dropping mountain biking video and thought, “I wish I could capture moments like that”? Or maybe you’ve tried filming your weekend kayaking trip, only to end up with shaky, unusable footage that makes your friends dizzy just watching it? You’re not alone. Getting smooth, dynamic shots with an action camera—whether it’s a GoPro, DJI Osmo, or any other compact model—often comes down to one thing: a solid mount.

Sure, you could drop $50–$100 on a branded mount from the manufacturer. But what if I told you that with a few household items and about 20 minutes of your time, you can build a DIY action camera mount that’s just as effective—and sometimes even more versatile? That’s right. No fancy tools, no expensive gear. Just creativity, a little patience, and a willingness to experiment. I’ve been there—frustrated by blurry clips and wobbly angles—and that’s what pushed me to start building my own mounts. The results? Honestly, some of my best shots came from rigs I made myself.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to build your own DIY action camera mount. Whether you’re filming your morning run, capturing your kid’s soccer game, or documenting a weekend hike, these mounts can give you professional-looking footage without breaking the bank. We’ll cover the basics, explore different mounting options, share step-by-step builds, and even troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll have the confidence—and the know-how—to create a mount that fits your unique filming needs.

Why Build Your Own Action Camera Mount?

At first glance, buying a ready-made mount might seem like the easiest option. But once you start exploring the world of DIY, you’ll quickly realize the benefits go far beyond just saving money. Building your own DIY action camera mount gives you control, flexibility, and a deeper understanding of how your gear works. Let’s break down why this hands-on approach is worth your time.

Cost-Effective Without Sacrificing Quality

Let’s be real—action camera accessories can get pricey. A single chest mount or helmet strap can cost upwards of $60. Multiply that by a few different mounts, and you’re looking at a small investment just to get started. With a DIY action camera mount, you can achieve similar—or even better—results using materials you likely already have at home.

For example, I once built a chest mount using an old backpack strap, a 3D-printed camera adapter (more on that later), and some zip ties. Total cost? Under $5. It held up through a full day of mountain biking, including a few tumbles (don’t ask). The footage was smooth, stable, and looked like it came from a pro rig. The point is, you don’t need to spend big to get great results.

Customization for Unique Angles

One of the biggest advantages of a DIY action camera mount is the ability to customize it for your specific needs. Commercial mounts are designed to fit a wide range of users, which means they’re often a “one-size-fits-most” solution. But what if you want to mount your camera to a bike handlebar at a 45-degree angle? Or attach it to a fishing rod for underwater shots? Or create a chest rig that fits snugly under a life jacket?

With a DIY approach, you can tailor your mount to your exact requirements. I once built a mount for my drone’s landing gear using PVC pipe and rubber bands—just to see if I could get a bird’s-eye view of my backyard barbecue. It worked surprisingly well, and the footage was unlike anything I’d seen before. That kind of creative freedom is hard to come by with off-the-shelf products.

Learning and Problem-Solving Skills

Building your own mount isn’t just about the end result—it’s also a learning experience. You’ll get familiar with how your camera attaches, what materials work best for different environments, and how to troubleshoot issues like vibration or slippage. These skills come in handy not just for filming, but for other DIY projects too.

Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about using something you made yourself. Every time I clip on my homemade helmet mount and hit record, I feel a little proud. It’s not just a piece of gear—it’s a reflection of my creativity and resourcefulness.

Essential Tools and Materials for DIY Mounts

Before you start building, it’s important to know what you’ll need. The good news? Most of these items are inexpensive and easy to find. You probably already have half of them lying around the house.

Basic Tools You’ll Need

• Scissors or utility knife – For cutting straps, foam, or plastic.
• Drill (optional) – Useful for making precise holes in hard materials like PVC or wood.
• Zip ties – Strong, adjustable, and perfect for securing mounts in place.
• Hot glue gun – Great for bonding lightweight materials like foam or plastic.
• Measuring tape or ruler – Ensures your mount fits properly.
• Screwdriver – Helpful if you’re working with screws or adapters.

Common Materials for DIY Mounts

• Foam padding – Reduces vibration and adds comfort (great for chest or head mounts).
• Elastic or nylon straps – Adjustable and durable for securing the mount to your body or gear.
• PVC pipe or tubing – Lightweight and rigid, ideal for handlebar or pole mounts.
• Rubber bands or bungee cords – Provide tension and flexibility for quick setups.
• Old backpacks, belts, or straps – Repurpose existing gear to save money and reduce waste.
• 3D-printed adapters – If you have access to a 3D printer, you can download and print custom camera mounts (more on this below).

Where to Find These Items

Many of these materials can be salvaged from old gear. That broken backpack? Perfect for straps. An old belt? Great for a chest mount. Even a discarded bike inner tube can be cut into rubber gaskets to reduce camera shake.

If you need to buy something, hardware stores, craft shops, and online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay are great sources. Look for bulk packs of zip ties, foam sheets, or elastic webbing—they’re cheap and last a long time.

Step-by-Step DIY Mount Builds

Now for the fun part—actually building your DIY action camera mount. Below are three practical, beginner-friendly projects that cover different use cases. Each one uses simple materials and can be completed in under 30 minutes.

Build #1: Chest Mount Using a Backpack Strap

This is one of the most popular DIY mounts because it’s comfortable, stable, and gives you a first-person perspective that’s perfect for biking, hiking, or running.

What You’ll Need:

• Old backpack strap (with buckle)
• Foam padding (about 6×4 inches)
• Zip ties (4–6)
• Camera mounting screw or adapter
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Cut the foam padding to fit the width of the backpack strap. This will sit against your chest and reduce vibration.
2. Use hot glue to attach the foam to the inside of the strap. Make sure it’s centered and secure.
3. Attach your camera mounting screw to the center of the strap. If your camera uses a standard tripod thread, you can glue a small metal plate with a screw to the strap. Alternatively, use a 3D-printed adapter if you have one.
4. Secure the screw or adapter with zip ties for extra strength. Pass the ties through the strap webbing and around the base of the screw.
5. Test the fit by wearing the strap. Adjust the length so the camera sits just below your collarbone, angled slightly downward.

Pro Tip: Add a small piece of rubber between the camera and the mount to further reduce shake. I use a cut-up bike inner tube—it works like a charm.

Build #2: Handlebar Mount Using PVC Pipe

If you’re into cycling, motorcycling, or even rollerblading, a handlebar mount is essential. This DIY version uses PVC pipe for a rigid, vibration-resistant setup.

What You’ll Need:

• 1-inch PVC pipe (about 6 inches long)
• PVC pipe clamp or U-bolt
• Sandpaper
• Camera mounting screw
• Drill (optional)
• Zip ties or epoxy

Steps:

1. Sand the PVC pipe to remove any rough edges. This ensures a smooth surface for your camera.
2. Drill a small hole in the center of the pipe (if using a screw). Alternatively, glue the screw directly to the pipe using epoxy.
3. Attach the PVC pipe to your handlebar using a U-bolt or pipe clamp. Make sure it’s tight and won’t rotate during use.
4. Secure the camera to the screw. Test the angle—aim it slightly forward for the best field of view.

Pro Tip: Wrap the handlebar with electrical tape before attaching the clamp. This prevents scratches and adds grip.

Build #3: Helmet Mount Using Elastic Straps

A helmet mount gives you a high-angle, immersive view—perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or skateboarding. This version uses elastic straps for a snug, adjustable fit.

What You’ll Need:

• Elastic strap (about 1 inch wide, 24 inches long)
• Camera mounting screw
• Hot glue gun
• Foam pad (optional, for comfort)
• Zip ties (2–4)

Steps:

1. Cut the elastic strap to fit around your helmet. Leave extra length for overlap and adjustment.
2. Glue the mounting screw to the center of the strap. Use plenty of hot glue and let it cool completely.
3. Reinforce the screw with zip ties passed through the strap and around the base.
4. Wrap the strap around the front or side of your helmet. Secure the ends with a knot or buckle.
5. Attach your camera and test the angle. Adjust the strap tension for a secure fit.

Pro Tip: For extra stability, add a small piece of double-sided tape between the strap and helmet. It won’t damage the surface but helps prevent slipping.

Advanced DIY Techniques and Upgrades

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can take your DIY action camera mount to the next level with advanced techniques and smart upgrades. These tips will help you build more durable, versatile, and professional-looking rigs.

Using 3D-Printed Adapters

If you have access to a 3D printer—or know someone who does—3D-printed adapters are a game-changer. These custom pieces let you attach your camera to almost anything, from drone arms to fishing rods.

Websites like Thingiverse and Printables offer free, downloadable designs for camera mounts. Look for models that match your camera’s mounting system (e.g., GoPro-style thumbscrew or tripod thread). Print the adapter in durable PLA or ABS plastic, then attach it to your DIY rig using screws, glue, or zip ties.

I once printed a mount that let me attach my camera to a selfie stick with a ball head. The result? Smooth, adjustable panning shots that looked like they were filmed with a gimbal.

Adding Vibration Dampening

One of the biggest challenges with DIY mounts is vibration—especially on bikes or motorcycles. Even small shakes can ruin your footage. To combat this, add dampening materials between the camera and the mount.

Options include:

• Rubber washers – Place them under the mounting screw.
• Silicone pads – Cut small pieces and glue them to the mount surface.
• Bungee cord suspension – Use elastic cords to suspend the camera, reducing direct impact.

I tested a bike mount with and without rubber dampeners. The difference was night and day—footage went from shaky to buttery smooth.

Weatherproofing Your Mount

If you’re filming in rain, snow, or dusty environments, weatherproofing is essential. Seal any exposed screws or joints with silicone caulk. Wrap electrical tape around zip ties to prevent rust. For extra protection, store your camera in a waterproof housing, even if the mount itself isn’t sealed.

One winter, I filmed a snowboarding session with a DIY helmet mount. I coated all the metal parts with silicone and used a waterproof camera case. Not a single drop got in—and the footage was crystal clear.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best DIY builders run into problems. Here are some common pitfalls and how to fix them before they ruin your shot.

Mount Slippage

Problem: The camera moves or rotates during filming.

Solution: Use multiple attachment points. Combine glue, zip ties, and screws for maximum hold. Add rubber or foam between surfaces to increase friction.

Excessive Vibration

Problem: Footage is shaky or blurry.

Solution: Add dampening materials (see above). Avoid mounting directly to metal surfaces without padding. Test your mount on a short ride before committing to a long shoot.

Poor Angle or Framing

Problem: The camera points too high, too low, or off to the side.

Solution: Adjust the mount before tightening everything. Use a level app on your phone to check the angle. For chest mounts, aim slightly downward—this captures your hands and the path ahead.

Comfort Issues

Problem: The mount digs into your skin or feels awkward.

Solution: Use soft padding and adjustable straps. Avoid rigid materials on body mounts. Test wearability for at least 10 minutes before heading out.

Real-World Examples and Success Stories

To show how effective DIY mounts can be, here are a few real-world examples from my own adventures—and from fellow creators who’ve shared their builds online.

Mount Type	Use Case	Materials Used	Result
Chest Mount	Mountain Biking	Backpack strap, foam, zip ties	Smooth POV footage, no slippage
Handlebar Mount	Road Cycling	PVC pipe, U-bolt, rubber pad	Stable wide-angle shots
Helmet Mount	Snowboarding	Elastic strap, 3D-printed adapter	Immersive aerial-style view
Drone Landing Gear Mount	Backyard Filming	PVC, rubber bands, camera screw	Unique low-angle drone footage

One of my favorite success stories comes from a friend who built a chest mount for his dog using an old dog harness and a 3D-printed adapter. The result? Adorable POV videos of his golden retriever running through the park. The footage went viral on social media—all thanks to a $7 DIY rig.

Final Thoughts: Empower Your Creativity

Building your own DIY action camera mount isn’t just about saving money—it’s about taking control of your creative process. When you make something yourself, you understand it better. You know how it works, how to fix it, and how to improve it. That knowledge translates into better footage, more confidence, and a deeper connection to your craft.

Yes, commercial mounts have their place. They’re convenient, polished, and often come with warranties. But they can’t match the satisfaction of using something you built with your own hands. Whether you’re filming a family vacation, documenting a hobby, or just experimenting with angles, a DIY mount gives you the freedom to try new things without fear of failure.

So grab that old backpack, find some zip ties, and start building. Your next stunning shot might be just one DIY project away. And who knows? You might just inspire someone else to pick up a camera—and a glue gun—and see what they can create.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DIY action camera mount?

A DIY action camera mount is a homemade accessory designed to securely attach your action camera to various surfaces like helmets, bikes, or tripods. It allows you to capture hands-free, dynamic footage without spending money on expensive commercial mounts.

Why should I build my own action camera mount?

Building your own action camera mount is cost-effective and customizable to your specific needs. You can use everyday materials and tailor the design for unique shooting angles or equipment setups.

What materials do I need for a DIY action camera mount?

Common materials include PVC pipes, 3D-printed parts, zip ties, rubber bands, or even old phone holders. Most DIY mounts rely on sturdy, lightweight components that can securely hold your camera during movement.

Can I make a waterproof DIY action camera mount?

Yes, you can create a waterproof DIY action camera mount using sealed enclosures, silicone sealant, and water-resistant materials. Ensure all joints and openings are tightly sealed to protect your camera during underwater or wet conditions.

How do I attach a DIY action camera mount to a helmet?

Use strong adhesive pads, straps, or drill small holes (if safe) to secure the mount to your helmet. Make sure the attachment is stable and doesn’t compromise the helmet’s safety or your camera’s balance.

Are DIY action camera mounts as reliable as store-bought ones?

While DIY mounts can be very reliable when built properly, they may lack the precision and durability of commercial products. Test your mount thoroughly before using it in high-action scenarios to ensure safety and stability.