How to Make LED Refrigerator Magnets

Create a colorful shower of lights by throwing a handful of LED magnets. These magnets are super simple to make, so even though the lights don't last forever, they are easy to replace. Use your LED magnets to add a burst of color to your refrigerator or any other magnetic surface. Here's how to make them:

Things You'll Need

• 10 mm LEDs in various colors
• 3V lithium batteries
• NdFeB Nickel-plated round magnets, ½ in. by 1/8 in. (one for each LED)
• Strapping tape

Instructions

1. Place one of the LEDs onto one of the batteries. The long "leg" of the LED (the anode) goes on the positive side of the battery. The short "leg" (the cathode) goes on the negative side.

2. Touch the legs of the LED to the battery terminals. If the light comes on, then you know it is working.

3. Tape the battery to the legs of the LED using the strapping tape. Tightly wrap the tape around the battery and the legs.

4. Put one of the magnets on the positive side of the battery as you are wrapping the tape around. Continue wrapping until the magnet and battery are completely secured to the LED.

5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 to make the rest of your LED magnets.

6. Throw your LEDs onto a magnetized surface to create a random pattern. Or arrange them into a creative design. Your LED lights should last several days, possibly a week or even more.

Tips & Warnings

• If your LED flickers then you know the tape is not wrapped tightly enough.

• If the cathode of the LED touches the positive side of the battery, it will not work properly. So, make sure that the cathode touches the negative terminal only.

• Don't pull on the LED when the magnet is attached to something. Slide it off instead. If necessary, use a tool such as a screwdriver to gently pry it up.