Introduction: Seaweed Pods Lamp
Make your own lamps using seaweed pods you find on the beach!
This is a beautiful lamp you can make that can glow nicely. Depending on how many you find you can make more elaborate ones, or even hook up an Arduino to make a unique clock.
This is a beautiful lamp you can make that can glow nicely. Depending on how many you find you can make more elaborate ones, or even hook up an Arduino to make a unique clock.
Step 1: Materials
What you'll need:
a) 20 or so dried seaweed pods - you'll find them on a beach. The more you get the more you can choose from in terms of size.
b) LEDs. I bought 20 3mm warm white LEDs that have resistors preconnected for $5.00 on eBay. You'll probably want ones that are warm instead of the bright white.
c) A 12V power source that puts out about 1A of current, like a cellphone charger.
d) A soldering iron
e) Some gauge wires
f) A hot glue gun
a) 20 or so dried seaweed pods - you'll find them on a beach. The more you get the more you can choose from in terms of size.
b) LEDs. I bought 20 3mm warm white LEDs that have resistors preconnected for $5.00 on eBay. You'll probably want ones that are warm instead of the bright white.
c) A 12V power source that puts out about 1A of current, like a cellphone charger.
d) A soldering iron
e) Some gauge wires
f) A hot glue gun
Step 2: Step 1: Prepare Pods
Cut the end of the pods until the LEDs barely fit.
Step 3: Step 2: Insert LEDs
Insert the LED and apply hot glue. It's best if you can get the LEDs to float within the pod instead of stick to a side.
Step 4: Step 3: Have Fun!
Solder the LEDs to the 12V power source, keeping in mind that the red side (the side with the LED) always connects to the positive end of the power source (also red, but not always differentiated as such). Connect multiple LEDs in parallel.
Depending on what you have around your home, you can use wire and black electrical tape to make supports for each pod. For the ultimate polish, spray paint your wires black so that the red ends are barely visible (you'll need it to connect multiple together) and use black floral wire. Other approaches may be also equally beautiful.