how to add EL wire to a coat or other garment

Step 9 Other examples: EL wire suits

Here are some examples of EL wire suits, with comments included on the photos.

Comments

[MadScientistK]

This instructable is very helpful, thank you for posting it! One question, how do you clean garments with EL installed, or do you just remove the wire for washing?

[enlighted]

I typically recommend spot cleaning only for garments with permanently installed EL wire. If you disconnect the batteries, and the ends of the wire are very well sealed, you may be able to submerge it briefly to hand wash it. When water leaks into the internal portion of the wire it will damage the phosphor and it won't glow anymore. I've heard stories of people throwing it in the washing machine, and having it work afterwards, but you risk mechanical damage from the tumbling, too.

[jpayton]

What about dry cleaning?

[MadScientistK]

Thank you so much! I thought that would be the case.

[big_ben12]

question : do u just run the wire through or are there no EL connectors tht go under the garment?

[Deathstick]

Very cool! I've been thinking awhile about making a safety jacket for my night rides going home from work on my bike. It is so awesome that I stumbled onto this INSTRUCTABLE. Not very safe to ride in L.A., not I will be doing it in style! Kudos!

[rhubarb]

Thanks for sharing your work in such detail. How long of a run time do you get off of such a setup? What kind of battery were you using for the Daft Punk outfits?