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5. E-textiles

Research

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Electronic textiles, also known as e-textiles are a subcategory of smart textiles and refer to textiles that have been embedded with electronic components, such as sensors, actuators, and conductive materials. These textiles have the ability to sense and react to their environment as well as collect data on applications like never before. This makes them a unique and exciting innovation in the world of advanced technology.

weekly assignment

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References & Inspiration

My inspiration comes from the Light-Up Bracelet project. It was my first time exploring e-textiles, and I wasn’t very familiar with how they work. Still, I was fascinated by how a simple idea—adding light to fabric—can turn something ordinary into something exciting and interactive. This project opened my eyes to how technology and fashion can come together in creative ways, inspiring me to keep learning and experimenting with wearable designs.

There are two methods for making easy-to-craft light-up bracelets -- we'll show you both!

Maker Tape Method: This is the quickest and easiest way to make a wearable circuit project. The tape is easy to connect and quick to stick, making it the perfect project for a group of kids (or kids at heart!) who are learning about electronics for the first time. Since Maker Tape can be un-stuck, it isn't as permanent as circuits made with the Conductive Thread method.

Conductive Thread / Crazy Circuits Method: This is the more durable way to make a wearable light-up circuit and has been the standard way of crafting "soft circuits" for a long time. This method is perfect for students who are interested in, or already know how to sew. By incorporating metal snaps to close the bracelet, the project is durable enough to be worn over and over and over again.

Links to reference files, PDF, booklets title

Tools

  • maker tape
  • conductive thread
  • led
  • battery circuit
  • neddle
  • battery holder

Process and workflow

Code Example

Use the three backticks to separate code.

// the setup function runs once when you press reset or power the board
void setup() {
  // initialize digital pin LED_BUILTIN as an output.
  pinMode(LED_BUILTIN, OUTPUT);
}

// the loop function runs over and over again forever
void loop() {
  digitalWrite(LED_BUILTIN, HIGH);   // turn the LED on (HIGH is the voltage level)
  delay(1000);                       // wait for a second
  digitalWrite(LED_BUILTIN, LOW);    // turn the LED off by making the voltage LOW
  delay(1000);                       // wait for a second
}

Results