Part 2: Sock Stuffed Animals …. That Make Noise!

In this set of 2 posts, we guide you to the info you’ll need to make your own sock animal that actually talks, beeps or sings!  Click here to read Part 1. Now that you have your homemade sock stuffed animal, it’s time for the noisy part!

Circuit bending is a popular hack in maker culture. Circuit benders remove the noise-making parts of existing things – like toys – and use them to make their own sounds. Some circuit benders are musicians who use the toy parts like instruments. Others are just interested in repurposing the noises into funny new toys.

Click below to learn how to circuit bend. Keep in mind that you can also simply reuse the sound-maker inside your animal without any changes, if you’d like. Circuit bending is a whole realm of making, so start simple and experiment with more advanced projects as you learn. It’s a good idea to have an adult helper with you for safety when circuit bending.

• How to Circuit Bend in 7  Steps by wikiHow
• How to Circuit-Bend a Toy by instructables
• There are also lots of zany videos about circuit bending on YouTube.

Let us see – and HEAR! – your platypus sock animal that talks like a Transformer or other zany sock animal creation at info@makeshopshow.com! Stay calm and make on.

*SAFETY NOTE: Circuit bending can involve sharp edges, little pieces and even basic hot soldering, so invite an adult helper to explore this with you. Always use cautino when handling risky tools and parts and wear safety gear.

© 2012 Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh