In this tutorial, we’re going to show you how to make a paper circuit paper clip switch. This switch is super easy to make and is great for controlling projects with multiple LEDS.
In order to help you get started, we’ve included (4) FREE paper circuit templates that use this type of paper clip switch.
Once you learn the basics, you can create your own custom circuit very easily. Get creative and have fun !
Project Time: 15 Minutes
Use the links below to download the project templates for this tutorial.
- Traffic Light Project Template – PDF
- School Bus Project Template – PDF
- Police Car Project Template – PDF
- Fire Truck Project Template – PDF
Materials Needed
In order to complete this project, you’re going to need the following maker materials:
- Copper Tape w/ Conductive Adhesive
- CR2032 Coin Cell Battery
- LED – Any Size or Color
- Paper Clip – Jumbo Size
- Brass Fastener – 1 Inch
Need the materials for this project? We have a paper circuit starter kit & ebook available. The kit includes copper tape, LEDs and CR2032 batteries. Also included is a project ebook with 45 project templates.
Step 1 – Print The Templates
Download the project template below that you want to use. Once you’ve done this, you can print it in color or black and white.
- Traffic Light Project Template – PDF
- School Bus Project Template – PDF
- Police Car Project Template – PDF
- Fire Truck Project Template – PDF
Step 2 – Apply The Copper Tape
Apply your copper tape to all the brown lines on the project template. We highly recommend that you use copper tape with conductive adhesive. This will ensure your LED lights properly. We do sell this copper tape in our paper circuit starter kits w/ ebook.
Begin by applying the copper tape straight to the corner.
Fold the copper tape up in the opposite direction in which you are going.
Next, fold the copper straight down and smooth it out with your finger. Do this with the rest of the circuit lines.
Step 3 – Mount The LEDs
Now it’s time to mount the LED to your circuit. Before we can go any further we need to identify which leg is positive. Every LED has a long leg and a short leg. The long leg will be the positive (+) and the short is the negative.
Bend both legs of the LED at a 90 degree angle. Make sure to remember which leg is positive (long leg). Mount the LED to the copper tape circuit using small strips of copper tape. Ensure the positive leg is on the (+) side of the circuit (right side of template).
Mount all (3) LEDs in the same way. Once you’re done, rub all the copper tape with your finger to make sure everything is making firm contact.
Step 4 – Attach The Battery
Cut a small strip of copper tape and roll it in a ball with the sticky side facing out. Stick this ball to the copper tape inside the grey battery circle.
Mount your CR2032 battery to the sticky copper ball. Make sure the negative (-) side of the battery is facing DOWN.
Fold the corner of the template using the black line as a guide. Secure the corner to the battery using a paper clip.
Step 5 – Paper Clip Switch
Using a razor or scissors, cut a small slit in the middle of the copper tape as indicated in the picture below. Make sure to cut in the same direction of the copper tape from left to right.
Insert the legs of a brass fastener through one end of the paper clip. Next, push the legs through the slit you cut in the copper and paper.
Flip over your template and separate the legs of the brass fastener to secure it.
Step 6 – Test Your Paper Circuit
Now it’s time to test your paper circuit traffic light. Rotate the paper clip so it touches each portion of the circuit.
Step 7 – Show Us Your Project
Follow us on Twitter at @Makerspaces_com and tweet us if you made this or another project. We love seeing your makerspaces and the creations you’re making.
Need More Projects?
If you’re looking for more paper circuit projects, please check out our ebook which has 45 project templates along with our paper circuit starter kit.
Purchase Orders
Makerspaces.com gladly accepts purchase orders from US schools, libraries and government agencies. Let us know if you need a quote or W9 form.
