Introduction: Custom Coasters for the Family!

About: I've spent many years learning how to build things and not really building anything cool. As society is moving more and more towards self sustainable construction, we need some family projects. I'm returning t…

I made this for my SO with the help of their child. The plan for this was to be a Christmas Gift, but I didn't get it finished in time. I made it for my SO as an anniversary gift instead. I had their child paint it to make it a paired gift. Don't worry, I will explain where I went wrong, that only half of the coaster was lit up. The lnks included are affiliate links.

Supplies

If you have these laying around, absolutely use them. I used the parts I had from previous projects and parts removed from old PCB's. You may be able to find some of them at your local "dollar" store.

3v power source (2x batteries)

1 - Pallet Coaster

1 - LED

1 - 10 Ohm resistor

1 - Rocker Switch

1 piece adhesive backed Cork (cut to the size of your coaster)


(optional) Liquid Electrical Tape

Disclaimer: The liquid electrical tape is not intended to serve as a replacement for soldering. Any and all damages incurred by using Liquid Eletrical Tape, is, solely, on the end builder.

Step 1: Decorate the Coaster

If you so choose, you can make this a team project and have someone else decorate it. This is a good idea if you want to be certain that someone will use it.

Step 2: Test Circuit

I recommend a bread board to test on, but is not required. If you follow the circuit diagram, and use only the supplies list, this is how it should look. If you choose to add more LED's, you will need, both, more power and a stronger resistor.

Step 3: Soldering

Make sure to test the circuit as you go. It easier to catch any problems that pop up when you test consistantly, than if you complete the circiut without testing.

NOTE: Do not complete the circuit, yet. Leave one side of the switch unsoldered. This makes it easier to run the wiring inside of the coaster.

Step 4: Putting It All Together

Feed the circuit into the coaster, making sure the LED can shine its light inbetween all of the slats. As you saw in the introduction photo, I missed that part when assembling. When you have it where it you want it, place the switch on the back of the coaster and solder the last piece of the ciruit. Flip the switch and enjoy.

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