3D PCB Clamp

Reliable clamps for soldering, filming, and pure satisfaction

While working on one of my projects that involved fine-pitch soldering—specifically of the kind of chips you see in the photo—I ran into a classic issue: how to hold a board securely while keeping it accessible from all angles? Especially when it’s not a one-off build, but a series of small-batch or one-off setups that require a lot of hand-wiring.

I’ve got plenty of alligator clips. But they’re always a compromise—flimsy, awkward, or just plain ugly on camera. And I need this not just for working, but for showing the process too. For you, and for myself.

That’s how the idea for these 3D clamps came to life. Fully articulated and lockable in any orientation. Upside down? Angled? Straight? No problem. It made soldering way more comfortable—and filming, a breeze.

A bit about the design

At the core are carbon fiber tubes I had left over from another project. They called for grippy, reliable clamps—and I went through three design iterations:

1. First version: O-ring rubber tension. Holds, but too shaky.
2. Second: magnetic grip. Better, but not quite there.
3. Third: ball-and-spring detents. That’s the sweet spot. Locks the board firmly but lets you insert it effortlessly.

The base is a thick metal plate, with the clamp held in place by a strong magnet. Stability? Rock solid. I printed all the black parts in PLA Carbon—stiff, strong, and sharp-looking. The yellow knobs are ABS for a bit of texture and contrast.

Why I like it

• First, it’s reliable.
• Second, it looks good on camera.
• Third, you get full access from all sides.
• Fourth, it’s quick to make—no complex parts.

And most importantly: it’s versatile. Fits all sorts of small PCBs, especially ESP-style modules.

What’s next?

Soon I’ll be posting the project that made this tool necessary in the first place. Stay tuned.

See the video for details:

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Parts links below:

• eSUN eABS+HS
• ESUN Filament PLA
• Matte Carbon Fiber Tube
• Neodymium Magnet Round Cup D20
• Button Head Screw M2.5
• Cross Phillips Ultra Thin Screw
• Wave Spring Washer
• Self-locking Nut
• Head Flat Screw M4
• Insert Knurled Nuts M2.5
• Ball 2.381mm MGN12H
• Sealing silicone
• AB-Glue Epoxy
• Glue 242

Links to used tools:

• Angle grinder
• NOGA deburring tool and Blades
• Tap Drill Bit
• Machine Screw Tap Set
• Thread Screw Tap
• Heat Insert Nut Iron Tip
• Heat Insert Nut Iron Tip T12
• PCB Magnetic Holder
• Carbide Machine Reamer
• Reamer Tool Set
• Reamers Small

My new machine:

My favorites:

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