Clothespin Third Hand

thingiverse

This is a work in progress of a simple ball and socket based "third hand" work holding tool that uses a clothes pin. I chose a clothes pin as the clamp because it is commonly available, and because they are wood, it can be used for soldering without melting under the high heat. The ball and socket system allows the clamps to be positioned where needed very easily. This tool would probably be best suited to small work, because clothespin jaws do not open very wide. However, the ball socket system could probably be adapted to hold other things. Included in this design are the files for: -socket base (with countersunk holes for 1/8" diameter screws) -double ended balls and sockets -mounting clamp for the clothespin -a single ended socket with screw hole (if you choose to screw the socket directly to the work area, without using the base file) -a 1 to 2 "y joint" socket Note: for the clothespin clamp, you must drill a 1/8" hole through the clothespin to line up with the holes on the clamp, and then put a nut and machine screw through both pieces. The clamp works well as a jig. This prevents the clothespin from pulling out of the clamp. Disclaimer: I have not tested this print. Although it was designed with Tinkercad parts optimized for printing, things can still go wrong. Print and use at your own risk (wasting filament, printer damage, injury, etc.). I hope this is useful!