![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/animatedpapercircuitart.gif)
In my newest video, I take you into my process as I create interactive paper circuit art using the Chibi Chip and Chibitronics LED stickers.
I love the process of collaging and augmenting existing images, especially using paper circuit materials. Paper circuits can add a magical touch to any project and using the Chibi Chip opens up even more possibilities for interactivity and storytelling with lights and paper.
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/smithsonianOriginalImage-597x1024.jpg)
One of my favorite places to find open source images is the Smithsonian’s digital collections. For this project, I used this fantastic image called, “Beautiful exotic bees from Curiosities of entomology“.
Something different I did for this project was use the online tool circuitsketcher.com to plan my design in advance and create a “template” for myself. I printed this image and used it as my base. I then printed another copy of the image (without the circuit elements) and layered it on top of my circuit.
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/circuitSketcherScreenshot-1024x675.png)
I made this image interactive by creating a circuit with the Chibi Chip that turns the LED stickers on when I move a magnet close to the reed sensor in the upper left corner of the image. For me, using code and sensors is a way to extend storytelling. When I create a program, I try to create something that looks fun or interesting, but also tells a story. The story I told here was about busy bees communicating with each other. As I move a cut-out of a bee closer to the image, the rest of the bees appear to light up and flicker, almost like they’re greeting each other!
Here’s what my code looked like, and a link to the program: https://makecode.com/_cmrW7wRyaiwx
![](https://chibitronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/makeCodeSnapshot-1024x800.png)
Supply List:
- Chibi Chip / Clip
- Conductive Fabric Tape
- Chibitronics LED Lights
- Reed Switch – Magnet On
- Small magnet
- Coin cell battery