Make: Volume 93

HOW TO: PINCH SWITCH

A pinch switch leverages the foldability of fabric.

Line a stiff strip of material with two pieces of

conductive material. When you pinch it together,

the two conductive pieces will touch and close the

connection.

STEPS:

1. Trace the patterns on paper or create your own

(Figure

N

).

2. Use the patterns to cut the required quantities

and shapes of each material (Figure

O

).

3. Position the conductive fabric. Think about the

direction of the tabs and where you’d like the

wires to fall (Figure

P

).

4. Iron in place (Figure

Q

).

5. Connect the conductivity tester (Figure

R

).

6. Pinch to close the switch (Figure

S

).

DIY switches can also ...