(105) Adding Lights to Woven and Felted Projects
Light up your weaving and felting projects with LEDs for a bit of attention-getting glitz. Using conductive yarn and wire, add simple LED circuits to an off loom woven pouch with flap, inkle loom strap, felted pods and flowers, and more. We will learn a quick beaded diffuser to enhance the LEDs and how to use snaps as on/off switches. Class will include an introduction to the endless possibilities of the exciting new world of electronic textiles. No computer programming or special skills are required, but the class will discuss programable computers that can be stitched into clothing for those who want to pursue the possibilities after class. Note, this is a small projects class. The goal is to master a simple circuit that lights up an LED using readily available materials. This is a beginning class that only requires hand sewing for the electronics.
Geri says “Folks find this class something different and fun. I’ve been surprised by how many women I’ve met with previous coding experience. My interest in teaching this subject stems from an desire to get more young girls interested in studying engineering by giving them an alternative to robotics. Many of the small computers that can be stitched into garments were developed by women engineers. The Bicycle Vest I wove out of coffee bags that was in the 2022 Convergence Fashion Show had programable lights that worked as turn signals.”
Instructor:
Experience Level:
Beginner
Maximum Class Size:
10
Materials fee:
$40 covers felting wools, felting tools, light weight plastic, soap, batteries, battery holders, conductive thread, conductive cloth, snaps, beads, wire, miscellaneous stitching supplies, some embroidery floss and yarns
Equipment required
Inkle Loom
Student Supplies:
- Inkle loom (instructor will provide 2, alternate projects provided if student doesn’t have an Inkle loom)
- Yarns for warping and weaving on Inkle loom
- Scissors
- Personal sewing kit
- Optional: Students may bring optional embellishment materials (embroidery floss, beads, sequins)
Homework:
Warping an Inkle loom ahead of time is helpful, but optional