Paper Circuits

Introduction
Whether you're a hardcore hacker or just getting started, have some fun by making this simple paper circuit.
Objectives
Materials
You'll need these materials to complete the project.
Parts








Where do I find these
The paper, straw, tape, and paper clip can be sourced at most office supply stores. The copper tape, LED, and coin battery can be found at the following places online:
Amazon
A local craft store might stock copper tape. Just make sure that it uses conductive adhesive.
A local hobby electronics store should stock batteries and LEDs. This activity uses CR2032 coin cell batteries and 3mm LEDs.
Print the templates
Grab the Star Wars or Harry Potter template and print it out using a double sided printer. If you don't have a double side capable printer you can print each side separately and either tape or staple them together.



Place the copper tape
Starting on the back or inside, tear off some copper tape and tape over all the brown lines on the template. Try to make each run of copper tape just one piece. While the adhesive is conductive, it isn't as good as the copper itself. Take extra caution when making turns. I like to lay down the tape then deal with the turn by folding it.
















LED
Flipping over to the front, grab the LED. It has a short leg and a long LED. Stick it through the paper at the top of the Lightsaber or wand, with the longer leg on the left. Flip over to the back, and bend each leg over the copper tape. Peel a little copper tape back and over the leg, making an LED leg sandwich. Place a piece of normal tape over the legs to ensure a good connection.











Battery
The battery has a smooth positive side and a bumpy negative side. Place it with the positive side facing down and the bumpy negative side facing up. Fold over the corner of the paper and secure with a paper clip.








Almost Done
Fold the paper in half and press down where the switch is. The LED should light up. If you made the Lightsaber, you can cut a section off of a drinking straw to guide the light. It should fit snug over the 3mm LED.







Enjoy

Troubleshoot
If your LED isn't lighting up, double check that your battery is in right way, the LED is in the right way, and that there are no breaks in the copper tape.