What We Used
Need a way to spice up an outfit quickly? Here’s how to make a quick LED wearable tech sweater.
This tutorial is brought to you by our intern Michelle, who put together this idea using our wearable tech kit, which is a kit designed specifically for wearables, and starts at $15.50.
My wearable tech kit is designed specifically to be used in wearable projects, and includes controllers that cycle through a variety of patterns.
Get yours here.Michelle used a sweater she already had: you can find something from your wardrobe or hit up a thrift store: we love sustainability!
This project can work with any sheer shirt or knitted sweater. Michelle is using a blue knit sweater, a thread that matches the color, and a needle.
Step 1: Prepare the Sweater
Place the sweater inside out on the ground, working on the back first. Leave some space so that the cord for the battery pack can be easily accessible from the back pocket.
First, stitch in the controller portion of the kit at a place where it will be accessible.
Step 2: Stitch in the LEDs
Stitch in the LED lights with the lights facing outward. You can stitch as often as you want, the more you secure in the lights, the more comfortable and sturdy the garment will be: but if you plan to re-use the kit again later you can stitch them in loosely for easy removal.
For this sweater we used two kits, connecting the second strand of LED lights to the first with the connectors at the end.
Step 3: Attach the Battery
Attach in the battery pack, and you’re good to glow! You can either sew in a small pocket for the battery, or leave enough cord so that it can fit in your actual pants pocket.
Step 4: Customize Your Light Show
With the wearable tech kit we offer, you can arrange different lighting colors and pacing with the buttons for endless variations on your style.
