17 April 2012

LED COSTUMING (individual LED bulb version & wiring a circuit)


want your costume to LIGHT UP?  Today’s blog teaches us to use LEDs & etextiles on clothing.  You are empowered to learn how, in this blog there are online instructions & ordering websites listed below.

 
INDEX - instructions / supply list /  online suppliers / appreciation

- ONLINE INSTRUCTIONS (learn by video &/or read the how-to pamphlet) -

12 page written instruction guide -

youtube playlist with instruction videos -

more photos from the workshop & examples of finished projects -



- SUPPLY LIST -

(1) Sewing needles with narrow enough eyes to fit through the holes in the battery holder
(2) Threading tool (for running cable like conductive thread through the needle)
(3) Clothing or Accessory (Something to sew onto that you can wear-- something sturdy that holds it's shape)
(4) Needlenose Pliers (smaller sized, e.g. for jewelry or electronics)
 (5) Multimeter (tests the charge. one will be available during workshops if u don't have one of your own)
(6) Chair or whatever you need to be cozy (including eyeglasses if needed). Class is outdoors in the backyard, please LNT.
(7) Parts Kit (buy the contents listed below online): The Basic Startup kit used at our workshop contained 5 LEDs, 4 yds of conductive thread, 1 metal bead, 2 snaps, 1 battery, 1 coin cell holder, and conductive tape.

- WHERE TO BUY SUPPLIES ONLINE -

small orders from www.sparkfun.com or www.adafruit.com 
buy bulk from from www.Superbrightleds.com -or- www.Electron.com
batteries from www.batteriesandbutter.com 

Our Instructor, Marie specifically recommends the following products:


(1) Battery holder - http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8822 -- could also use duct tape, but it's harder to change the battery
(3) Conductive thread - http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10867 

- APPRECIATION

Today’s blog is based on the DiY LED Costuming Workshops held in Austin in April 2012 preparing for the procession I am curating with the theme “Neon Circus Parade Marching Band.”

We are grateful to Inga Marie Carmel for teaching two workshops in April 2012 and for sharing her knowledge with our community.  www.ingamariecarmel.com

Huge thanks to Jane for sharing her space with us to hold the workshop. Amelias Retro Vogue is at 2213 South 1st Street, Austin 78704 www.ameliasretrovogue.com

Deepest appreciation to all of you who explore your potential to learn new things.