Need a slide projector? Make your own!
Creating a 35-millimeter slide projector takes a little woodcraft, a little electrical know-how and basic understanding of lenses and film. Materials to do the job include some balsa wood sheets, wood glue, a hobbyist's knife, framing wood, an electrical lightbulb socket, insulated tape and two large lenses from an old camera or telescope
Making the Slide Holder
To hold the slide, you'll need a wood sleeve with 35 mm-sized holes cut through the middle. Using the balsa wood and hobbyist's knife, cut two identical pieces three inches long and two inches high. In the middle of each piece, cut out the window the same size as the 35 mm film. Then cut three ribs, two the length of the height of the slide, one the length of the width. Glue these equally spaced around one window. When the glue is dry, glue the second piece to the other side. The top of the slide holder is open to drop in and remove the slides. Carve a half moon on the top of both pieces the size of the thump tip. This will allow pinching the slide and removing it.
Making the Projector
Using the balsa wood, build a box 12 inches on the sides and three inches tall. No need to miter the corners if that's too difficult. Use the hobbyist's knife to open a two-inch round hole in one side. Use either wood glue or brass tacks to assemble. Do not glue or tack on the top piece. Leave the box open on top.
Installing the Light
Place the light socket in the box sideways and attach it to the box. Fasten the base of the socket to the side of the box. Open a small hole for the electrical cord. Under the lightbulb, put a piece of insulation tape to prevent the wood from heating.
Installing the Lens and Slide Holder
Focusing the image means either moving the lenses or moving the projector to and from the screen area. Probably, moving the small box would work best. Place one lens over the two-inch hole and secure it with either tape or glue. Place the slide holder assembly in the box between the light and the hole. Position it perpendicular to the bottom and glue it in place. Position the second lens directly in front of the slide holder and secure it in place.
Closing Up the Projector
On the top 12-by-12-inch piece of wood, attach a piece of insulated tape where it is over the light. Also, use the hobbyist's knife to cut a rectangular opening over the slide holder. Make it large enough so that the thumb and forefinger can remove the slide. Depending on the lens position, the slides may have to go in upside down to project right side up. Place the top cover on the box and either leave it unsecured or attach with two frame hinges. Focus by moving the projector forward or back.
Tags: hobbyist knife, balsa wood, insulated tape, moving projector, slide holder, slide projector
