How to Make an LED Project

Because of their low price, versatility and simple designs, LEDs (or light emitting diodes) are popular choices for a variety of projects. LEDs use little energy and produce almost no heat and are perfect for many hobby and craft projects. Electric candles, lights for Halloween pumpkins, light-up trees, realistic models and pulsating sound boards are just a few of the hundreds of uses for LEDs. Using a few basic tools, you can create an LED project surprisingly quickly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 9-volt battery connector
• 9-volt battery
• 100/220 resister
• Wire cutters
• Electrical tape
• Soldering iron
• Rosin core solder
• LED bulbs

Wiring

1. Match the color coding of the resister wires and the wires from the battery connector.

2. Peel back enough plastic coating so you can twist the wires from the connector to the resister around each other.

3. Hold the solder on the wires to be soldered. Lightly touch the end of the preheated soldering iron to solder and wires. You should see a flash almost immediately. Remove the iron.

4. Connect the wires of the LED bulb to the remaining wire in the same fashion.

5. To neaten up the wiring, wrap another piece of electrical tape around the loose pieces to make a bundle that will fit in your project.

6. Make an on/off switch by simply bending over a few of the connectors on the battery connector so that you can slide the connection in and out.

7. Insert your LED into your project.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your hands after using solder to remove the residue.

References

• Soldering Video