In my latest tutorial, Reed Switch Shadow Box, I’ll show you how to use one or two reed switches (magnet on) to control lights (and the mood) in a story-telling shadow box!
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rainbow-GIF.gif)
The example below uses two reed switches (magnet on). One triggers a path with white LEDs and the other triggers a path with colored ones. The Reed Switch Shadow Box tutorial also shows how to create a simpler version with a single reed switch.
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reed-switch-shadow-box-hummingbird-circuit-white-SHORT-1024x1024.png)
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reed-switch-shadow-box-hummingbird-Example-SHORT-1024x1024.png)
The circuit for this project is completed in two steps. One part is created on the back of a recessed box frame, while the second part is created inside of a tray that slides into the recess. Both pieces of the circuit join up on the back of the frame with help from conductive fabric tape.
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reed-Switch-Shadow-Box-2-Switches-short-logo--1024x1024.png)
![Reed Switch Shadow Box](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reed-Switch-Shadow-Box-2-Switch-Box-Example-1024x1024.png)
The way that this works is by hiding a magnet on the back of a moveable bird which engages with one of two reed switches placed on each side of the frame. The switch on the left connects with a circuit path containing white LEDs. The switch on the right connects with a circuit path containing colored LEDs.
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reed-switch-shadow-box-hummingbird-circuit-SHORT-1024x1024.png)
I created the interchangeable shadow box insert by alternating machine cut paper pieces with foam tape. Each layer features a part of a whole image that may only be viewed in its entirety when assembled.
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reed-switch-shadow-box-art-layers-SHORT-1024x1024.png)
To learn more, visit the full tutorial Reed Switch Shadow Box. There, you’ll find a video, circuit diagrams, and a cut file you may use or adapt. You’ll also see additional shadow box examples.