How to Build a DIY LED Throwie That Sticks Anywhere

Introduction

LED throwies are a fun DIY project that allows you to create small LED lights that can stick to any surface using magnets or adhesive putty. They are easy to make with just a few inexpensive components, and you can get creative with different LED colors and casing designs. In this article, I will walk you step-by-step through how to build your own LED throwies from scratch.

What You Need

To build LED throwies, you will need the following materials:

• LEDs - Small 3mm or 5mm LEDs in any color you like. Red, green, blue, and white are common choices.

• Coin cell batteries - CR2032 or CR2016 coin cell batteries to power the LEDs.

• Magnets - Small neodymium magnets to allow the throwies to stick to metal surfaces.

• Adhesive putty - Reusable adhesive putty like Blu Tack allows throwies to stick to smooth surfaces.

• Wire - Thin gauge magnet wire to connect the LEDs to the batteries.

• Tape - Electrical tape or masking tape to hold the components together.

• Container - Plastic easter eggs, mint tins, or film canisters to encase the throwies.

LED Throwie Circuit

The circuit for an LED throwie is very simple. It connects the LED directly to the coin cell battery in a series circuit.

Here is a diagram of the circuit:

The positive side of the battery connects through the wire to the positive lead of the LED. The negative lead of the LED connects back to the negative side of the battery, completing the circuit.

This simple direct current (DC) circuit allows electricity to flow from the battery through the LED, lighting it up. No resistors or other components are needed.

Assembly Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to build your own LED throwies:

Step 1: Prepare the LED

Start by taping down the leads of the LED flat against the body with electrical or masking tape. This keeps them secure and in position for the next steps.

Step 2: Attach the magnet

If making a magnetic throwie, take one of your small neodymium magnets and tape it to the back of the LED over the negative lead.

Step 3: Connect the battery

Take your coin cell battery and twist or solder a piece of magnet wire to the positive terminal. This wire will connect to the LED's positive lead.

Use tape to insulate any exposed wire or connections.

Step 4: Connect the LED

Attach the free end of the battery wire to the positive lead of the LED. Again, use tape to insulate the connection.

Step 5: Complete the circuit

Cut another piece of wire and connect one end to the negative terminal of the battery. Tape down the wire along the body of the battery.

Then connect the free end of this wire to the negative lead of the LED, completing the circuit.

Step 6: Test it

At this point, your throwie circuit should be complete. Give the battery a twist to make contact and test that the LED lights up.

Step 7: Add the enclosure

Finally, tape the LED throwie circuit into your container of choice - an easter egg, mint tin, plastic capsule, etc.

Decorate the outside and add some adhesive putty if needed, and your LED throwie is complete!

Usage and Design Tips

Here are some tips for using your LED throwies creatively:

• Try out different color LEDs for variety. Mix and match colors in a single throwie.

• Make themed batches, like Christmas colors or your school colors.

• Use small plastic capsules or plastic easter eggs to waterproof the throwies.

• For outdoor use, seal the container with tape and shrink wrap.

• Add glitter, stickers, or decorations to personalize the throwies.

• Group several throwies together for a brighter light display.

• Use strong neodymium magnets for maximum stickability.

• Switch out the magnets for reusable adhesive putty for sticking throwies on smooth surfaces.

So with just a few inexpensive components, you can easily make tons of these fun LED throwies to decorate and stick anywhere! Get creative with the designs.

Troubleshooting Issues

If your LED throwie isn't working, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• LED isn't lighting up - Check that the LED legs are connected to the correct battery terminals. The positive leg to the positive terminal and negative leg to the negative terminal.

• LED glows faintly - The battery may be running low on power. Try replacing it with a new CR2032 coin cell battery.

• LED flickers - Connection points may be loose. Check the wires connecting the LED legs to the battery. Retape and insulate any loose connections.

• LED lights briefly then turns off - The battery is most likely installed backwards. Double check positioning and flip the battery over if reversed.

• Entire circuit is non-responsive - There may be a broken connection in the circuit. Check all wires and connection points for damage. Re-solder or re-tape any broken connections.

With a bit of testing and troubleshooting, you should be able to get your LED throwies working again. Check each component and connection methodically to locate any issues.

In Conclusion

Crafting DIY LED throwies is an enjoyable electronics project using simple components. In just a few steps, you can build these fun gadgets to decorate surfaces with creativity. Try out different LED colors, casing designs, magnets versus adhesive, and throwie configurations for unique results. Troubleshoot any issues carefully and you'll have long-lasting LED throwies to stick anywhere.