Crafters of all ages were shown a preview of crafting in the future at the Craft and Hobby Association on Saturday, when Syuzi Pakhchyan demonstrated a project from her book Fashioning Technology. Using conductive thread, the group (many of them for the first time) lit up little finger puppets with LED lights. “I think I’m going to call mine sweet cheeks,” said Arline Lowenrhal, 77, from San Diego.

From the Maker Shed:

Buy Fashioning Technology by Syuzi Pakhchyan in the Maker Shed today!

This book demonstrates how to blend sewing and assembly techniques with traditional electronics to assemble simple circuits using conductive thread, solder joints for snaps, and switches for buttons. With the sewing machine as a viable substitute for the soldering iron, you can craft a new generation of objects that are interactive, quirky, and fashion-conscious.