Plushies + Circuits 101: The Basics

Kim Ducharme is an artisan, designer, and educator working at the intersection of textiles and technology. She spent 17 years leading Interactive Design at WGBH Educational Foundation, and then 11 years for CAST advancing their Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework towards expanding learning opportunities for all — in the classroom, in informal education spaces such as science museums and afterschool programs, and in makerspaces. She currently pursues e-textiles and wearables projects and leads workshops and maker-mentor programs for local communities to broaden participation in makerspaces and STEM.

Learn to combine sewing and electronics in fun ways. You will learn about simple circuits and the basics of hand sewing, and then use a template to create a plushie monster with light-up features. There will be plenty to learn that you may apply to future projects of your own — more light-up plushies, applications to bags, hats, pockets, upcycling projects, e-textiles and wearable sports and fashion tech, and beyond!
This class is for adults and students aged 12 and up from all backgrounds who are seeking creative fun, inspiration and fresh perspectives to expand the scope of their practice. Anyone under 18 should attend with an adult or legal guardian. This class prepares you for Plushies + Circuits 102: Free-form (beyond the basics).

The materials fee for this class is $25. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts payments through Cash or Venmo.

• Learn basic hand sewing techniques
• Learn the basics of circuitry for e-textiles — soft circuits, hard-soft connections
• Follow a template to create a light-up plushie to take home
• Master the basic skills required for the next class — Plushies + Circuits 102: Free-form (beyond the basics)
• Introductory learning about the e-textiles and wearables industry

Felt, Stuffing, Thread,

No materials needed and no special equipment or dress required. Feel free to bring any fabrics or embelsihments, and come as you are!

Ages 12 and up. Anyone under 18 should attend with an adult or legal guardian. No experience or skills required! But, you should be comfortable holding a needle and sewing by hand. Some fine motor skills like threading a needle will be necessary but we can help! The use of both hands at times may be necessary. To discuss any needed accommodations, contact us at ZWR1Y2F0aW9uIHwgYXJ0aXNhbnNhc3lsdW0gISBjb20=

Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies Here.

Please email ZWR1Y2F0aW9uIHwgYXJ0aXNhbnNhc3lsdW0gISBjb20= with any questions.

*Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep.

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