Build an LED Infinity Mirror: an intro to Physical Computing with Arduino

This two-day workshop will see you dive into the world of creative coding for physical hardware to build interactive projects with Arduino. Whether you’re interested in coding, light art or plain old tinkering, we’ll help you develop your creative ideas and put your newfound skills into action to  create a dazzling LED infinity mirror.

Arduino is an open-source electronics platform that lets you turn everyday objects into interactive creations. You can code simple programs to control lights, sensors, and motors.

This workshop takes place over two days: 
Wednesday 8 May 2024 10:00-16:00
Thursday 9 May 2024 10:00-16:00

Please note: you are signing up for both days. 

What you’ll learn: 

Day 1: Get familiar with Arduino software and explore working with LEDs, resistors, and breadboards to control lights through code. Grasp programming fundamentals like variables, functions, libraries, arrays, and loops to build more complex projects.

Day 2: Building on the previous day’s learnings, you’ll work with additional components like motors, IR transmitters & receivers, and specialised chips (ICs). Learn about the FastLED library for controlling addressable LEDs and creating stunning infinity mirrors.

Who’s this for?

• 18+
• Creatives interested in learning to work with hardware
• Coders looking to branch out into physical computing

Please note: no prior coding experience is required

What do you need to bring/ prepare? 

• A laptop that can connect to the internet
• Please download www.arduino.cc before the workshop. If you struggle to download it, please arrive 15 minutes earlier, and we will be able to help you
• If you do not have a laptop, we can lend you one to use during the workshop. Please let us know when you sign up if you need to borrow a device

Cost
This event is free to attend. We charge a £10 booking deposit to cover the cost of materials. This will be refunded on attending the event, or if you prefer, you can leave it as a donation to MadLab CIC to support future community-led events. Refunds will be processed within seven working days. If you cannot afford a ticket, please email [email protected] with your name and postcode, and we will be in touch.

Additional information

Light refreshments, snacks and a hot lunch will be provided.

Location

Stockport Museum 30 Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1ES (map here)

About the facilitator 

Chris Ball is a Manchester-based freelance creative technologist. He works to facilitate the use of technology within the arts and has completed projects with both local and international artists requiring skills in electronics, programming, interaction, design and fabrication.

Website

Host or Publisher Make Stuff