How to Shop for Items for Circuit Bending

Circuit bending may be a foreign concept to many people, but it can be easy and fun to try as a hobby. If you can pick up some cheap, working electronic toys and a few simple supplies, you can start circuit bending today.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know how to find good toys for circuit bending. First, always shop second hand in thrift stores or at yard sales. It's about getting something cheap, not new. Take with you a small Phillips screwdriver and some AA batteries, as most toys take these. The purpose of this is so you can test the toy to make sure it works before buying it.

2. Gather or purchase the basic tools needed for circuit bending. This should include a set of jeweler's screwdrivers, wire cutters, wire strippers, toggle switches, a soldering iron, solder, and some spooled wire. These items can all be found at any hardware store or hardware department of large retailers.

3. Decide if you are going to get specialty circuit bending items. These are items that can be used for advanced circuit bending, or items you may not use with each project. Some of these items may include electrical and masking tape, cordless drill with an assortment of drill bits and a variety of switches and push buttons.

4. Practice circuit bending safety. This includes using a heat resistant work surface, a solder iron stand and knowing how to properly use the soldering iron. Smart circuit bending will prevent you from getting injured or causing a fire.