Fabric considerations
Hello!
I have been conceptualizing a design for a skirt that is going to be one of my first projects using integrated technology (besides my jewelry). I am not very familiar with electronics besides a basic understanding and the ability to follow directions. I got some skill in the subject in a stagecraft course in college, and my husband is really into electronics and robots and things. So, I've got someone to help me on that front.
My question relates to the fabric one would use when creating a wearable work. Without giving away too many details, the skirt will involve a very basic circuit of LED's (probably strung in series) and conductive thread. Is there anything special I should consider when choosing a fabric? Flammability is the obvious one. But I wonder if there are ways to protect the fabric from the circuit so I could use whatever I wanted, or is this something I shouldn't even worry about? Also, will the conductivity of the fabric affect anything? I doubt I will decide on a fabric that will be conductive at all, but I'm just not sure about this application because it's so new to me.
Any thoughts? Suggestions?
I have been conceptualizing a design for a skirt that is going to be one of my first projects using integrated technology (besides my jewelry). I am not very familiar with electronics besides a basic understanding and the ability to follow directions. I got some skill in the subject in a stagecraft course in college, and my husband is really into electronics and robots and things. So, I've got someone to help me on that front.
My question relates to the fabric one would use when creating a wearable work. Without giving away too many details, the skirt will involve a very basic circuit of LED's (probably strung in series) and conductive thread. Is there anything special I should consider when choosing a fabric? Flammability is the obvious one. But I wonder if there are ways to protect the fabric from the circuit so I could use whatever I wanted, or is this something I shouldn't even worry about? Also, will the conductivity of the fabric affect anything? I doubt I will decide on a fabric that will be conductive at all, but I'm just not sure about this application because it's so new to me.
Any thoughts? Suggestions?
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Syuzi on -
Hi Alison,
Flammability shouldn't be an issue if you are going to work with low voltages (9V or under). If you still are concerned, stick to natural fabrics like wool as they intrinsically have anti-inflammatory characteristics. In general stay away from synthetics as much as possible. Also stretchy fabrics and knits are a bit of a pain to work with in general unless you are an adept seamstress (which I'm not so I stick to the simple stuff).
I would stay away from using metallic silk organza (or other off-the-shelf) fabrics that may be conductive because it may short your circuit. On the other hand, you can use the conductivity to your advantage if you would like.
Just remember when you are using conductive fabrics, select a fabric that does DO NOT HAVE NICKEL. About 10-15 percent of the population is allergic to nickel. The threads all use stainless steel or silver so they aren't a problem.
I hope I answered your question. Good luck!
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