Introduction: Electronic Sewing Kit (pulse Warmer)

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The eyes on this Jack-o-lantern knitted wristband light up RED when you squeeze it.

I was already knitting a wrist band / pulse warmer when I thought: wouldn't it be fun it this could light up?! So I added some LEDs and a switch. This guide does not teach how to knit, as I assume you want to add lights to a piece you've already made.

In addition to the lights, switch, and battery, you will also need some conductive thread or some really thin wire for this project. This example was made with a ready-made kit from
http://www.aniomagic.com or you can learn how to make your own kit from http://www.cs.colorado.edu/~buechley/diy/diy_e_sewing.html

Disclaimer: the author sells the ready-made kits on Aniomagic's website.

Step 1: Materials

The Electronic Sewing Kit (tm) from http://www.aniomagic.com contains:

- conductive thread
- two hand-made LED sequins
- a hand-made cloth switch
- a small, flat battery
- battery holder made from regular and condutive fabrics
- small patch of fabric

You can also get parts from other suppliers:

- Silver coated thread from Lame Lifesaver
- Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs): purchase from Digikey or your local RadioShack
- Tiny plastic switch from Digikey or your local RadioShack
- CR2032 battery: purchase from Digikey part #: P-189-ND (not shown in picture)
- CR2032 battery holder: purchase from Digikey part # 1061K-ND

See http://www.cs.colorado.edu/~buechley/diy/diy_e_sewing.html for further instructions, materials and tools if you decide to make your own kit.

Step 2: Arrange

Arrange your pieces to see how they fit. While you're at it, tie off your thread with a knot.

Step 3: Lights to Switch

Make several passes through the copper bead on any light. Secure your stitches with a knot.

Step 4: Second Light

Connect the second light by fastening its copper bead in the same way.

Step 5: The Switch

Now connect the switch. Apply a dash of fabric glue to keep your knots from untangling.

You must cut the thread after connecting the lights to the switch. If you just continue without cutting, your project won't work. This is because the electricity will go through that thread instead of through the switch or the lights. We call this a "short circuit", and you don't want that.

Step 6: Lights to Battery Holder

Connect the two silver beads to the square tab on the battery holder. Even though they may be really close, make sure this new segment of thread does not touch the first one.

Step 7: Battery Holder to Switch

Connect the other end of the switch to the rounded tab on the battery holder. Insert the battery and carefully seal the holder shut.

Step 8: Twinkle

Your lights should twinkle red when you press the switch. If you'd like to get started, order your own ready-made kit, with soft, washable components from http://www.aniomagic.com

Enjoy!