Definately a great way to build a good but cheap camera crane:

From The Frugal Filmmaker.

PARTS LIST:

1- 10′ length of chain link top rail
2- training wheels with rubber grooved tires
1- dumbell handle with screw collars
1- Simpson Strong Tie A24 angle (Home Depot SKU# 590007)
1- roll of 50lb. test fishing line
1- small hook & eye turnbuckle
1- quick plate from your tripod
2- 1/2″ PVC plugs
1- 1/2″ PVC end cap
1- 1/2″ PVC tee
1- 1/2″ PVC elbow
1- 1/2″ PVC pipe (3″ in length)
1- 1/2″ PVC pipe (5″ in length)
3- 1/4″ machine screws (1 1/2″ in length)
4- 1/4″ nuts with nuts
1- 1/4″ lock washer
2- 1/4″ fender washers
1- 3/8″ bolt (3″ in length)
1- 3/8″ bolt (4″ in length)
7- 3/8″ nuts
2- 3/8″ fender washers
1-4 3/8″ washers
1- 3/8″ lock washer
1- knobbed 1/4″ bolt with 5-6 exposed threads
1- 1/4″ screw (2 1/2″ in length)
1- 1/4″ wing nut