Supplies from the workshop
Copper tape comes in a few widths and thicknesses. We tried 2 different widths, 1/4" and 1/2". Make sure that the tape has a conductive adhesive so the circuits will be properly connected.
LEDs come in many sizes, colors, and brightnesses. Some of the websites about paper circuits use surface-mount LEDs and a soldering iron, but we used standard LEDs: 5mm with 2 "legs" (the anode: the longer + connection; and the cathode: the shorter - connection), and Scotch tape. If you want to try a few different kinds of LEDs out before ordering a large amount online, Radio Shack has them individually or in small packs.
For batteries, look for 3v coin cells. There are a few sizes available, but as long as it's 3v, you're good to go! If you have some of the very small 1.5v coin cells, you may use 2 of them to light up the LED. I do not recommend the smaller 1.5v batteries, as their squat size makes them difficult to keep stacked when making the circuit connection.
- 1/4" copper tapeThe narrower copper tape.
- 1/2" tapeThe wider copper tape.
- Color-change flashing LEDsSuch colors! Much flashing!
- CR2023 3v coin cellsOne option for batteries.
- CR2032 3v coin cells, pt. 2Another option for batteries. Shop around!
Websites about paper circuits
This workshop is mostly based off of Jie Qi's instructions from her website. She has clear instructions and printable templates for many types of paper circuits.
A basic internet search for "paper circuits" will yield a number of results using various methods and materials. I've included a few links using soft graphite pencils (found in the fine art section of craft stores) instead of copper tape. I have not tested this method, but feel free to give it a shot!
These links are to remind you how to make the circuits and to offer inspiration for your own projects! Try wiring up origami, greeting cards, or old books. Experiment and have fun!
- Jie Qi's pageThe site I got the workshop's info. Includes the 2 circuits we made, along with more advanced projects. Printable templates.
- Basic paper circuit instruction sheetPrintable instructions for 3 types of circuits, from Jie Qi's page. The supply list includes surface-mount LEDs and a soldering iron; you may use standard LEDs and Scotch tape instead.
- Exploratorium workshopHighlights from a workshop at the Exploratorium in San Francisco. Lots of great inspirational photos showing how to take paper circuitry to the next level.
- Project photos from Exploratorium workshopGet inspired!! Make that cupcake!!
- Draw circuits with pencilsUsing a softer graphite pencil, you can draw a working circuit. I have not tested this method, but folks say it works!
- Pencil drawn circuit flashlightVideo proof that drawn circuits work! This guy made a functioning flashlight.
- Article about paper circuitsMostly talking about a crowd-sourced product (circuit stickers), but has some interesting info about other non-standard circuitry.
- UFO projectWritten by a real librarian! As a great idea for the SRC! Even has a robot clip-art from the manual! YAY!!!
- Light-up origami balloonA bit more involved than our workshop, but if you're (and your patrons) are up for the challenge, how to wire up an origami balloon.
- Simplest origami + LED projectTwo different models, a frog and a lotus, with an LED and battery added. No copper tape, just the battery and LED!
- Modular origami flowerThis is the model from the workshop with the LED in the center of the flower. The wiring is not part of this video; I'll get pictures up soon to show how to do it. Watch this space!
- Helpful hints and troubleshootingMake's instructions for a pop-up card, but scroll to the bottom of the 1st page for tips on conducting a program and how to troubleshoot if your circuit doesn't work.
- TapeTricity cardsSimple circuits done by kids of all ages (check out the super-wee girl below the embedded video!) using similar materials to those we used in the workshop! Great ideas on how to integrate LEDs into paper projects!
