The easiest way to start with eTextiles is to place LEDs into your favorite dress. First – take a moment to understand the most basic of all circuits. Circuit Diagram showing the flow of electricity from the power source thru the resistor, into the LED, and then returning to the power source.   A hardwired LED circuit   How […]

In 2014 I’ve purchased more 400 pin breadboards that I ever thought possible! Fortunately I’ve found an eBay seller that is reliable. CXB Electronics on ebay is the place to go for large quantities of 400 pin breadboards and jumper wires. Order early as it takes 3 -4 weeks to receive them.

I like to use a non-woven conductive fabric because the edges don’t fray when cut with a scissor. Woven rip stop fabric will fray even when using pinking shears. Non-woven conductive fabric has a nice texture and does not fray. The frayed edges of a woven conductive fabric can be used as conductive fringe. Every eTextile project has its own […]

At the beginning of a project I take a few moments to mark the polarity of my LED’s using nail polish, magic marker, or seed beads and then bending the metal lead into a specific shape. This helps my accuracy when sewing the LED’s into my eTextiles. I encourage you to take a few moments to do this as it […]

  Red LEDs are electron hogs. They will always be the first to glow and even prevent other LEDs from illuminating.     When designing your circuits be sure to isolate the red LEDs from other colors otherwise you’ll have a darkwad in the final design.   read more on LEDs at wikipedia

  Sew traces with conductive thread and red or black bobbin threads to indicate the electrical polarity. Adjust the tension allowing the bobbin thread to pull thru to the fashion fabric so that the polarity is easily determined. Reverse side of the fabric clearly shows the bobbin thread. Keep bobbins wound and ready for action.  

  I’ve been thinking the eTextile Lounge deserves a new photo, but I love this one so much!