Electronics used to be limited to bread boards, metal circuitry with insulating jackets, and hot solder. Innovations in conductive wiring have now brought electronics into the world of fabrics.
New wiring options, especially conductive paint and conductive threads, make it possible to sew electronics in craft projects. Combine these with low powered batteries, LED lights, a snap or basic switch, and a basic knowledge of electronics and the result is an e-textile.
Finding Soft Circuit Supplies
A simple e-textile craft requires a few traditional embroidery items as well as some basic electronics. The supplies for sewing are the same as for a traditional sewing or embroidery project, except that a grey thread, called conductive thread, about the thickness of embroidery floss will be needed to attach the lights, switch and battery. Also needed are LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), switch, coin cell or button battery (also known as CR2032), and the battery holder with sewable leads. The switch can be an electronic switch or even a metal snap.
E-textiles are an emerging area of sewing, so it may be unlikely to find the circuitry supplies, other than a metal snap, in a local craft or fabric store. One option is to look online; conductive thread is available through online retailers, and some soft circuit enthusiasts offer for projects. Though some items may be easier to locate online, the other basic supplies can also be purchased at a local electronic store.
Making a Simple e-Textile Embroidery Project
There are several online sources for patterns to create a simple electronic sewing project. These are very useful for those who want a pattern and directions for the crafts. Some online projects can be found at SternLab, FashioningTechnology, or by doing a web search for “soft circuits” or “e-textiles.”
There are some important facts about electronics to keep in mind when creating soft electronic crafts. First, the electronics work off of the concept of positive and negative; the battery, battery holder, and LEDs all have a positive and negative side. Read the packaging carefully to make sure which side is which.
Next, when sewing with the conductive thread make sure to keep the stitching for the positive sides separated from the stitching for the negative. Crossing these, or leaving loose ends after tying off, can create a short circuit and have results anywhere from flickering lights to a damaged battery.
Finally, the switch or snap is used to turn the power on and off. If this is left out of the craft, then the lights can be turned off by removing the battery.
Soft circuits is a fun way to add lights to a craft project. There are several online sources for patterns and supplies since many are not yet available in craft stores. When making and e-textile there are several basic electronic facts to remember that will make it easier to create a functional soft circuit.
Related Article: Teach Basic Electronics With a Sewing and Embroidery Lesson
Join the Conversation