SparkFun Paper Circuit Kits

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Contributors: Gella
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Introduction

Design and build time: 5-10 minutes


Welcome to the world of paper circuits - creating electronic projects directly on paper using simple components. This guide will walk you through building a simple circuit using copper tape, a 5mm LED, and a 3V coin cell battery.

SparkFun offers two kits designed specifically for this paper circuit project. The main difference between the two kits is that the Classroom Pack includes batteries, four LED color options, and some spare parts. If using the SparkFun Paper Circuits Kit, you will need to provide or purchase your own 3V CR2032 20mm coin cell battery to follow along and complete the project.

SparkFun Paper Circuits Kit

SparkFun Paper Circuits Kit

KIT-15817
$17.50
1
SparkFun Paper Circuits Classroom Pack

SparkFun Paper Circuits Classroom Pack

KIT-15818
$58.95
2

Required Materials and Tools

In your paper circuits kit, you will find a plastic bag that includes:

  • Printed Paper Circuit Template
  • 12" Piece of 5mm Copper Tape
  • Yellow 5mm LED
  • Binder Clip

Parts Included in Kit

You Will Also Need:

  • 3V CR2032 Coin Cell Battery (Included in the Classroom Pack)
  • Scissors
  • Hole Punch
  • Clear Tape
  • Decorating Supplies (markers, pens, crayons) If You'd Like to Color In the Finished Project

Downloadable Templates

Your kit includes the following printed template. If you would like to choose a different template or make more projects, you can also download and print a PDF.

Inside and outside of the included robot paper circuit template

Download Robot Template (PDF)

Right-click the template's image or link, and choose “Save Link As” to download the it to your computer. Each file has the circuit template on one side and a design on the other. Print on 8 ½” x 11” cardstock paper and cut out individual template (6 total per print). You will only need one to make the project.

Underwater Template Preview Blank Template Preview
Download Underwater Template (PDF)
Download Blank Template (PDF)

Suggested Reading

If you are brand new to working with electronics, here’s some helpful reading to check out:

What is a Circuit?

Every electrical project starts with a circuit. Don't know what a circuit is? We're here to help.

Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

Learn the basics about LEDs as well as some more advanced topics to help you calculate requirements for projects containing many LEDs.

The Great Big Guide to Paper Circuits

Let's take a look at different materials we can use to combine paper crafting and electronics.