Create a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry that will brighten your look and your mind by making a Circuit Necklace. Improve your tool skills as you manipulate inspiring new and recycled materials—such as colorful old telephone wires, a watch battery, and a bright LED—into a functional and fashionable wearable piece of art. It is highly possible that you’ll be inspired by this basic circuit necklace and want to make another type of wearable art. Test out different types of circuits, and design your own personalized piece.
Why we like it
What are the qualities we value in this activity?
Science and Art Connections
As your create your circuit necklace, you’ll be gaining an intuitive knowledge of how circuits work, and using scientific reasoning to control the flow of electricity. At the same time, you’ll be thinking about the aesthetic qualities of the light and colors you will be wearing.Using Tools
You have a chance to manipulate materials using simple tools that make the job much easier. You’ll practice using wire strippers to remove the plastic coating from the tips of the telephone wires. You’ll also improve your pliers skills as you bend the metal on the LED.Connection to the Real World
After completing this activity, you’ll have a better understanding of how the circuits all around us work. You will be better equipped to repair a broken circuit, or build a new one. Maybe you’ll be able and inspired to fix a lamp, put in a new switch or rewire your doorbell.Playful and Inventive
Electricity is often discussed in serious terms: power failures, electrocution, etc. But as long as you are being safe, electricity can also be delightful and beautiful. This activity will help you better understand how it flows through a circuit, and allow you to safely play with light while creating something fun.
